Your kitchen sink may smell like a sewer for several reasons:
- Food debris and bacteria trapped in the drainpipe
- A dry or malfunctioning P-trap, which is the curved portion of the pipe under the sink that holds water to create a seal preventing sewer gases from entering your kitchen
- A clogged or blocked plumbing vent, which is responsible for keeping sewer gas from entering your home when sewer pressure fluctuates
- Grease and oil accumulation in the drains, which can harden and rot, causing a foul odor
To address the issue, you can try cleaning the drain and garbage disposal, checking the P-trap for leaks or blockages, and inspecting the plumbing vent for any issues.
If the problem persists, consider seeking professional assistance from a plumber.
How Can I Clean The Kitchen Drain And Garbage Disposal To Eliminate The Sewer Smell?
To clean the kitchen drain and garbage disposal and eliminate sewer-like smells, there are several methods you can try:
- Sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into the opening of the garbage disposal, followed by a cup of white vinegar.
Allow it to sit for 10 minutes, then turn on the garbage disposal and let hot water rinse away the mixture.
You can also use chopped citrus peels instead of baking soda and vinegar. - Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a cup of white vinegar, while the water heats up.
Once the water has finished boiling, turn on the disposal to rinse away the mixture. - Use natural ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar, ice, table salt, and lemon peels to clean the garbage disposal.
- Run warm water, squirt dish soap into the drain, and turn on the disposal.
If you haven’t cleaned the appliance in a while, use boiling water to sanitize the drain, disposal, and pipes.
You can also pour a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar into the sink drain, but make sure to place the stopper over the drain because the mixture will fizz up and try to escape.
What Are Some Signs That Indicate A Malfunctioning P-Trap?
Some signs that indicate a malfunctioning P-trap include:
- Slow-draining water in the sink
- Foul odors near the P-trap that smell like rotten eggs
- Leaking toxic sewer smells into your home
- Dry P-trap which can cause bad odours
How Can I Determine If The Plumbing Vent Is Clogged Or Blocked?
To determine if the plumbing vent is clogged or blocked, there are several signs to look out for:
- Water takes a long time to drain
- Dry and empty toilet tanks
- Foul smells
- Gurgling or “glugging” sounds as water drains
- Strong sewage smells
- Slow clearing drains
To check for blockages, clear debris from around the vent pipe and use a flashlight to look for further blockages.
If you suspect a clogged plumbing vent, it is recommended to contact a professional plumber to clean the vent.
Are There Any Preventive Measures I Can Take To Avoid Grease And Oil Accumulation In My Kitchen Sink Drains?
Yes, there are several preventive measures you can take to avoid grease and oil accumulation in your kitchen sink drains.
Here are some suggestions:
- Use a mesh drain strainer to catch food particles and prevent clogs
- Scrape plates or containers out in the trash to keep grease, fat, and oil out of your drain
- Eliminate grease by wiping pots, pans, and dishes with a paper towel before washing them
- Use a 1:1 ratio of hot water and vinegar to clean your drain and prevent grease buildup
- Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar, to get rid of grease in your drain
- Use a splatter screen or lid when cooking to prevent grease buildup in your kitchen
When Should I Consider Contacting A Professional Plumber For Assistance With The Sewer Smell In My Kitchen Sink?
If you have tried all the tips and tricks to eliminate the sewer smell in your kitchen sink, and the smell persists, it may be time to contact a professional plumber.
A professional plumber can help you find the reason for the smell and work with you to find a plumbing solution.
Additionally, a professional plumbing company can clean all aspects of your kitchen sink drain, from the P-trap to the garbage disposal.
