Some kitchen odor sources are immediately apparent, such as an overflowing trash can or rotting food on countertops. Others are a little harder to diagnose and often require plumbing services to resolve. Learn about these challenging odors to maintain a cleaner, fresher-smelling cooking space.

Why Is Your Kitchen Smelly?

1. Dirty Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals that are not used every day can start to smell as bacteria break down leftover food particles. They can also produce foul odors because food debris get stuck in the connecting pipe. Rather than trying to clean and deodorize the appliance yourself, schedule drain cleaning services with the local plumber. Home remedy methods such as throwing ice down the disposal can dull the blades.

2. Plumbing Leaks

Leaks under your kitchen sink or within the walls provide ideal environments for mold and mildew. The damaging fungi require dark, damp conditions to thrive, creating musty odors that permeate your kitchen. Schedule plumbing services to repair leaks and use white vinegar to kill mold infestations under 10 square feet while wearing a mask, goggles, and other protective gear. If the infestation is over 10 square feet, request mold removal services to avoid health problems such as severe allergic reactions.

3. Clogged Pipes

Kitchen sinks without drain covers or traps can allow a variety of clogging agents down their drains, including food debris, hair, oil, fat, and grease. The latter agents congeal in cold pipes, forming seals that cause slow drainage and standing water issues, among other plumbing problems. Professional drain cleaning dislodges large clogs to avoid backups and keeps your pipes in good condition.

4. Dirty Dishwasher Filter

While leaving food debris on dishes instead of rinsing them saves water, it causes your dishwasher’s filter to clog quickly. The filter is located under the racks, so clean it carefully with a rag or paper towel to remove large bits of food before programming a rinse cycle. Let the dishwasher air out post-rinsing to discourage odors. If your dishwasher still smells, consider professional plumbing services to diagnose and solve the problem.

 

Schedule drain cleaning and other plumbing services from Drain Doctor. The plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial services to clients within a 30-mile radius of Levelland, TX. Call (806) 894-3796 today to make an appointment or learn more about service offerings online.