If you notice foul odors emanating from your kitchen or bathroom drains, you naturally want to resolve the issue right away before it exacerbates. Since there are several possible explanations, the following guide may provide the basic information you need. Before you call a local plumber, consider these three common causes.

Why Might Your Drain Smell?

1. Debris Buildup

Over time, debris, like grease, oil, soaps, and lotions, may accumulate on the sides of your pipes and lead to foul smells. In these cases, you may notice a scent akin to rotting organic material or garbage. While you’re never supposed to pour grease down your drain, if it happens, it will cling to the pipes and attract odor-causing debris. To resolve the issue, call a professional plumber to deep clean your pipes. Never use do-it-yourself treatments that contain harsh chemical agents, as they can pose serious health concerns and potentially damage the pipes. 

2. Clogged Drains

An organic odor may also signal the presence of a clogged drain trapping food and debris somewhere in your pipes. To resolve the issue, use a small sink plunger to attempt to push out the material. If that doesn’t work, a professional plumber will have the tools necessary to tackle the task.

3. Sewage Backups

Unfortunately, if any of your drains smell of sewage, a backup is likely the culprit. This most commonly occurs due to a septic tank overflow, P-trap malfunction, or sewer vent issue. If you smell sewage, enlist a residential plumber to diagnose the issue right away. Due to the health and safety hazards associated with a sewage backup, it’s considered an emergency that demands immediate support.

If your sink drain smells, contact the experienced plumbers who can help diagnose the problem. The experts at Powell Plumbing & Pumps have been providing locals in Wood County, WI, with the highest caliber of inspections, repairs, maintenance, and installations. To learn more about how the plumbing contractors can serve your needs, visit their website. If you have any questions, call a helpful employee today at (715) 325-2050.