Summer brings sunshine and warmth - but unfortunately also unpleasant smells from the drains. In hot weather, sewer odours can become more common, and the stale stench can easily spread indoors. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to prevent the problem.
1. Fill the water locks regularly
A water trap prevents odours from the sewer from entering the room. It works by creating a layer of water, but in hot weather this water can evaporate surprisingly quickly - especially in drains that are not used often, such as the floor drain in a shower or utility room.
Tip: Pour water into infrequently used drains on a regular basis. If you want to keep the water from evaporating for longer, add a splash of cooking oil to the water - it will form a protective coating and slow evaporation.
2. Clean the floor drains and traps
A dirty floor drain or a dirty sink diffuser can itself cause odours, even if the water trap is working normally. In summer, heat accelerates the growth of bacteria and biofilm in drains.
Do this:
- Remove the floor drain cover and clean the drain mechanically with a brush and hot water.
- Also clean the odour traps from the sinks and sink. Often they can be removed by hand and rinsed clean.
3. Check the drain ventilation
The drainage system includes ventilation to equalize pressure and prevent odours from escaping into the interior. If a drain vent is blocked or malfunctioning, it can create a vacuum that sucks the water traps dry - and odours are free to spread.
When to suspect a problem?
If there is an odour in several drains at the same time, it is a good idea to call a plumbing professional to check the drain ventilation.
4. Don't pour fat down the drain
In summer, grease can congeal in the pipes and cause blockages and odours. This is especially true for kitchen drains.
Remember: For example, pour the fat into an empty milk carton and dispose of it with your organic waste - never down the drain.
5. Use deodorisers judiciously
There are different types of drain fresheners on the market, but they only mask the smell - they don't remove the cause. Sometimes they can help temporarily, but the most important thing is to take care of the cleaning and the water in the water traps.
When to call a professional?
If a sewer odour problem cannot be eliminated at home, the cause may lie deeper in the sewer system or in the ventilation system. In this case, it's worth getting professional help.
24 Center gives you fast access to an HVAC expertwho will locate the source of the smell and take the necessary action - whether it's a blockage, a ventilation problem or a broken water trap.
Don't let smells ruin your summer day - keep your drains in good condition and contact us if necessary!
