If you’ve ever had a smelly drain, you know how unpleasant it can be. But what causes smelly drains, and what can you do to get rid of the odor? Read on to learn some helpful drain tips and ways to prevent the issue from occurring.

What Causes a Smelly Drain

P-Traps

P-traps and smelly drains can be a real problem in the home. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to keep your drains smelling fresh and clean.

One of the most important things you can do is to make sure that your P-trap is always full of water. A P-trap is a U-shaped pipe that is installed under your sink. This pipe traps water to create a seal that prevents sewer gases from entering your home. If your P-trap ever dries out, it can allow sewer gases to escape and cause a nasty smell in your home.

You should also avoid pouring grease or oil down your drain. These substances can solidify in your pipes and cause clogs. If you do accidentally pour grease down your drain, you can pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to melt the grease and help it flush out of your pipes.

Biofilm Build-up

Most drain odors are caused by a build-up of biofilm on the walls of the drainpipe. Biofilm is a slimy layer of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that adhere to surfaces and each other. When this film builds up in drains, it can cause a foul smell. In some cases, the biofilm can also clog the drain.

Clog in Your Sewer Line

If your drains smell bad or seem to be clogging more frequently, it could be a sign that your sewer line is starting to back up. A clog in your sewer line can cause all sorts of problems, from foul odors to sewage backup in your home. If you think you may have a clog in your sewer line, call a professional at Allen Service. They can use a video camera to inspect the line and determine what’s causing the clog. Once they know what the problem is, they can clear the clog and get your sewer line flowing freely again.

DIY Ways to Clean Sink and Shower Drains

If your sink or shower drain is starting to smell bad or become clogged, there are some natural ways you can clean it without resorting to harsh chemicals.

One way is to pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then flush with hot water. This will help break up any grease or grime that may be causing the problem.

Another option is to put a half cup of salt in the drain, then pour boiling water over it. Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush with cold water. This will help kill any bacteria that might be causing the odor.

If you have a lot of hair in your drain, you can try using a plunger to break it up and clear it out. You can also remove the drain cover and use a wire hanger to fish out any hair or debris that might be causing the problem.

Once you’ve tried one of these methods, your sink or shower drain should be clean and fresh smelling again.

How to Fix Stinky Drains for Good

If you have stinky drains, there’s a good chance that your home is not as clean as it could be. Drains can become smelly for a variety of reasons, but the most common culprit is usually a build-up of food scraps, grease, and other organic matter. Over time, this can create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to that telltale funky smell.

Thankfully, there are a few simple things you can do to get rid of smelly drains for good. First, make sure that you’re regularly cleaning your drains with hot water and a quality drain cleaner. This will help to remove any build-up of debris that might be causing the odor. You should also avoid pouring grease or oil down your drains, as this can coat the pipes and lead to a nasty smell. Finally, if you have a garbage disposal, be sure to clean it regularly and run it with cold water to help prevent odors.

If you follow these simple tips, you should be able to keep your drains smelling fresh and clean. However, if you find that the problem persists, it’s best to call in a professional plumber for an inspection. They’ll be able to diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs.

Professional Drain Cleaning With Allen Service in Fort Collins

When it comes to professional drain cleaning, Allen Service in Fort Collins is the company to call. Our experienced and qualified technicians are equipped with the latest tools and techniques to get your drains flowing freely again. We understand the importance of keeping your drains clean and free from debris, so we offer a wide range of drain cleaning services to suit your needs. Whether you have a clogged sink, shower, or toilet, we can help. We also offer camera inspections to identify any problem areas in your drains and sewer lines. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.