It would seem constant maintenance order in the kitchen or bathroom is the key to freshness and cleanliness. However, regardless of the degree of tidiness of the housewife, sometimes the kitchen air does not smell like fragrant baked goods, and the smell in the bathroom is reminiscent not of the freshness of the sea breeze, but of ominous footage from horror films.
Let's take a look how to get rid of smell from sink , and at the same time check the serviceability of the sewer drain.
The very first thing you need to do when you see unpleasant odor from the sink or bathroom - disassemble and clean the siphon. Very often, it is the dirt accumulated in this device, consisting of food residues or grease, that stinks. Sometimes the siphon may burst due to sudden changes in the temperature of the hot and cold water. In this case, you can try to solder it using construction hair dryer and a piece of plastic, or seal it with epoxy glue and fiberglass. But it is better to replace this part to be completely sure of its serviceability.
Often the cause of an unpleasant odor lies in a faulty siphon.
In addition to problems with the siphon, there are a lot of other possible reasons for the appearance of unpleasant odors in the kitchen and bathroom, namely:
- Clogged sewer;
- Leakage of water from water seals;
- Cracks in pipes or loose joints;
- Poor adjustment of sewer riser revisions.
To eliminate the causes of the malfunction, the defective location is first localized and then repaired.
Clogged drain pipes
If a blockage appears in the drain line, it must be removed. To do this, you can use a plunger after drawing a small amount of water into the sink. A vacuum cleaner can be used for the same purpose by setting its hose to blow out and then connecting it to the drain pipe. It is only necessary to first seal the connection point.
A plumbing cable can help remove severe blockages.
To remove more severe blockages, use a plumbing cable. Rotate this device and periodically turn on the water supply. This will help you deal with clogged drains faster. In case of use plastic pipes, this method should be used very carefully.
If there is no plumbing cable, then a long thin hose can correct the situation. It is inserted into the pipe, and then the entry point of the hose is blocked and water is released. Under the influence of water pressure, the blockage is gradually washed away. Additionally, it is necessary to disassemble and wash the siphon.
Often the cause of the smell is an improperly installed siphon. When assembling it, pay attention to the location of the plastic pipe. It should not reach the bottom of the flask and at the same time be 2-3 cm in the water.
Lack of water in the water seal
To prevent odors from the sewer system from penetrating into the house, water seals are installed at all drain holes, which in the simplest case are a U-shaped elbow filled with water. It is the liquid that prevents the spread of stench. Water from the water seal may evaporate if the tap is rarely opened.
Also, the lack of fluid may indicate a failure of the water seal. This is what is called suction of water into the riser. This is possible due to ventilation problems sewer system that occur when foreign objects get into the riser, as well as when it freezes in winter. To make sure that the main sewer pipe is properly ventilated, you need to go up to the roof and inspect it.
The water seal prevents the penetration of odors from the sewer
A broken water seal is indicated by hissing or squelching sounds coming from the sink as water flows out, so to detect this malfunction, listen to the sounds coming from the drain hole.
Often a water seal is installed by installing a bend in a corrugated pipe instead of a siphon. Over time, this pipe can sag, thereby facilitating failure. To avoid this phenomenon, secure the bend with wire or insulating tape.
In case of a long absence, before leaving, you can pour a little machine oil into the siphon to eliminate evaporation of the water seal.
Elimination defects pipeline
Cracks, crevices and leaking joints are common in older sewer systems. To eliminate them, use various ways. Small cracks in straight sections of pipelines are repaired by applying bandages or sealing clamps. Large holes are sealed using patches and epoxy resin. Leaks in pipe connections are eliminated using tarred asbestos cord packing.
In some cases, the cause of an unpleasant odor may be depressurization of the junction of the drain and sewer pipes. It is necessary to carefully inspect the connection point and, if necessary, eliminate leaks using silicone sealant.
When examining the drain pipe and riser, pay attention to special attention for the tightness of inspection hatches of risers.
Methods for eliminating unpleasant odors
Using household chemicals
Modern industry produces a variety of chemicals designed both to clear even the most severe blockages and to remove the unpleasant odor coming from the drain hole. Such drugs come in both liquid and gel form, and even in the form of granules.
Used for cleaning sewer pipes chemicals, containing caustic soda, so handle them carefully and carry out all work with rubber gloves.
Chemicals used to remove blockages and unpleasant odors from drain pipes
Good results are obtained by using the compositions “Mole”, “Brawler”, “Odorgon”, as well as “Domestos”, “San Clean”, “Tiret” and others. These products are poured into the drain and left for a certain time (usually 2-4 hours), which is indicated on the packaging. The drain is then washed with a large amount warm water.
If the drain in your apartment is made of plastic pipes, use the Israeli product “Pothan”. These granules are suitable not only for metal pipelines, but also do not destroy plastic products.
Good results can be obtained by using household chemicals that contain chlorine. For example, you can use “Whiteness” or dry bleach powder. The use of such substances will also save your finances. Even greater savings can be achieved by knowing one secret. Namely, that all of the above drugs are based on the action soda ash, so you should always have a package of this substance on hand.
When purchasing cleaning chemicals, pay attention to the possibility of using them for plastic pipes, if such drains have been installed in your home.
Traditional methods
If you don't have special ones on hand chemicals to clean the drain, don't worry. The compositions discussed below can be prepared in any kitchen.
To eliminate sink odors, stir three tablespoons of regular baking soda in 1 liter of warm water. Then this solution is poured into the drain hole and left for at least 30 minutes. After this, wash the drain hot water. Instead of soda, you can use table salt.
When flushing the drain with hot water, take into account the material of the sewer pipes. If you use plastic products, the line can be damaged by boiling water.
Table vinegar or acetic acid solution is used in the same way. Pour at least 0.5 liters of liquid into the drain and wait 20-30 minutes. Then the pipeline is washed with warm water.
Simple drain cleaners can be found in any kitchen.
Often, to remove unpleasant odors, both soda and vinegar are used simultaneously in a 1:1 ratio. First, baking soda is poured into the hole, and then vinegar is poured.
Dry mustard powder, which is poured into the drain and then poured boiling water over it, also gives a good effect. However, this method is not suitable for plastic pipes.
There is no need to treat this with irony traditional methods. The point is that anyone bad smell from the sewer - this is the result of the activity of bacterial colonies. When these bacteria are eliminated, the stench goes away. You can fight them with any alkalis or acids, even if it’s ordinary soda and vinegar. Plus, by using these substances instead of “real” chemicals, you save the environment.
Preventing blockages is the key to eliminating unpleasant odors.
Prevention
In order not to wait for the drain to deteriorate and an unpleasant sewer smell to appear in your kitchen and bathroom, make it a rule to flush the drain once every two weeks with hot water and any detergent. Once a month it is necessary to disassemble and clean the siphon, and every six months it is necessary to carry out preventive maintenance for the pipes using caustic soda or any special cleaner. And then your kitchen will smell only of fragrant pies and hot tea, and a fresh sea breeze will blow in your bathroom again.
Video. How to clear a clogged sink with your own hands
Housewives make a lot of efforts to ensure that the aromas of cleanliness and freshness are in the air in their home. When a smell appears from the kitchen sink, it does not create any special difficulties in everyday life, but it really spoils the mood. It becomes difficult to cook food, gather for family dinners, and you have to apologize to guests. “Amber” gradually spreads throughout the entire apartment and poisons life. Let's look at why there is a smell from the kitchen sink, how to eliminate it and prevent it from appearing in the future.
To choose a way to eliminate an unpleasant odor, you need to understand the reasons for its appearance. There may be several of them:
- There is a blockage in the siphon. Food debris, grease, and sticky substances constantly end up in the kitchen sink. All this settles on the walls of the pipes and in the siphon. Over time, a layer of rotting deposits forms. They emit a characteristic heavy odor, which disappears after washing the siphon.
- Rare use of the sink. A water seal is formed in the bend of the sink siphon, which prevents the spread of sewer odors. If the appliance has not been used for a long time, the water from the water seal evaporates, and the kitchen sink stinks.
- Incorrect siphon installation. Installing a siphon is one of the simplest plumbing operations, however, a minor error in operation is enough for the water seal to stop performing its functions, and air from the sewer enters the room.
- Deformation of corrugated pipe. The corrugation can stretch and sag over time. This happens even if the system was initially installed perfectly. When the corrugation stretches, the water is not retained and is directly drained into the sewer or even returned back.
- Poor sealing of the joint between pipes and riser. In some cases, a corrugated pipe is simply stuck into the hole of the riser, without particularly worrying about sealing. This can cause a stink in the kitchen.
- Airing sewer riser. A sign of such a malfunction is characteristic gurgling sounds in the sink. Only a plumber from the housing office can help here, because... This is a malfunction of the main system. However, such “symptoms” may appear if neighbors above have installed plugs on unused sewer pipes.
kitchen sink
Clogged drain in kitchen
Pay attention! The smell doesn't always come from the sink. If your pipes are cracked or chipped, small amounts of water may leak through the damaged areas. It evaporates quickly or is absorbed into finishing materials, but the specific aroma remains.
Sealed siphon installation in the kitchen
Why is it so important to get rid of stink?
If your kitchen sink stinks, it is not only unpleasant, but also dangerous to your health. The ability to recognize odors is a natural mechanism that ensures human survival. We define scents as disgusting when they actually have the potential to cause harm.
The air coming from the sewer into the room contains toxic gases, in particular hydrogen sulfide and ammonia. Methane is also produced when sewage decomposes. It has no odor, but this does not make it any less dangerous. Prolonged exposure to toxic gases inevitably leads to negative consequences.
Hydrogen sulfide, methane and ammonia harm the respiratory system and can lead to partial loss of smell. They affect nervous system, provoke feelings of increased anxiety, and in some cases can cause nervous breakdowns and even fainting.
Sewage system repair
Diagnostics: identifying faults
The easiest way to figure out the reasons for the appearance of unpleasant odors from the sewer is to call a plumber. However, you will have to wait for a specialist indefinitely, and then pay for his services. If the damage is serious, then this good option, but in many cases everything can be done with your own hands.
Monitor the operation of the sink. If the water flows normally, but the smell of the sewer does not subside, you should rinse the pipe with hot water and a special household chemicals or soda. If cleaning does not help, you will have to deal with the siphon and pipes.
Carefully inspect the elements of the sewer system. There may be a leak somewhere. The pipes should not be chipped or cracked, and the joints should be dry to the touch. If moisture is detected, the joint will need to be sealed with foam or sealant.
7 Best Ways to Remove Sink Odor
Experts give several useful tips How to remove smell from kitchen sink. Let's look at the most popular methods. Special attention should be paid to household chemicals and homemade solutions for cleaning the sewer system.
Pipe cleaning equipment
Method 1: clearing the blockage with a cable
Sometimes even a small hard object can cause a lot of trouble. Kitchen waste or toothpicks entering the sewer prevent the normal flow of water. They retain fat and food debris. As a result, a plug is formed, which reduces the throughput of the pipes and emits a putrid odor.
The blockage can be cleared out with a regular metal cable. To do this, grab the tool firmly with your palm and begin to slowly rotate it, gradually pushing it further and further along the pipe. When the cable reaches the blockage, the plug can either be pushed further down the pipe or removed using the hook at the end of the cable.
A sign that the blockage has been removed is a normal flow of water. It is first supplied under low pressure, and then the tap is opened more to make sure that the problem is solved. It is advisable to use hot water. It will wash out the remains of the plug and wash off the grease from the walls of the pipes.
After use, the cable itself is washed clean, wiped, and lubricated with machine oil. This is necessary to prevent rust on the metal. The dry and treated cable is rolled up and placed in storage.
Drain cleaning cable
You can purchase a plumbing cable at a store or make it yourself. To make the tool you will need an elastic iron rope. The length and thickness should be chosen depending on your own needs; most often, a three- or five-meter rope with a diameter of 10-12 mm is taken.
One end of the cable is fluffed and bent to make it easier to remove objects or clumps of hair clogged in the drain. A ring is attached to the opposite end of the rope, which will be used as a handle. Part of the cable can be covered with a piece of plastic tubing or wrapped in any suitable solid material.
Homemade cable
Very often it is not sewer pipes that need to be cleaned, but siphons. If you don’t want to disassemble and wash the structure, you can use a homemade cable made from plastic bottle.
This simple tool has its advantages. Firstly, it is not hard enough to damage the siphon. And secondly, there are no financial costs: it can be made virtually from garbage - used containers. If you suddenly spoil it, you won’t be sorry.
To make a long cable you will need a 5-liter bottle, and for a short one a 2-liter bottle will be enough. Degrease the surface and apply markings: draw a spiral strip 15-20 mm wide, leaving small area for the loop by which you will hold the cable during use.
Bottle marking
Cut the bottle along the markings to create a spiral strip, cutting out a “ring” of such a diameter that your finger can fit through it freely. Make small cuts across the entire surface of the tape on both sides. In the same way, “fluff” the end of the cable.
Attention! If you are uncomfortable leaving the “ring” handle when marking, make the strip continuous along the entire height of the bottle. Later you can secure the end of the plastic tape to create a loop.
The finished tool should look like a transparent “brush”. Notches are needed to remove dirt from pipes and siphons. The cable is used in the same way as a metal one, but taking into account the lower strength of the material. After use, the instrument is washed, dried and stored rolled up.
Cleaning drains with a plastic rope
Method 2: cleaning the siphon with a plunger
First of all, you should inspect the siphon. If the problem arose due to stretching of the corrugation or improper installation design, it is simply installed in correct position and secure with electrical tape. If the unpleasant odor appears due to a blockage, the siphon can be cleaned with a plunger.
A plunger is the simplest plumbing tool that can be bought at any hardware or hardware store. For kitchen sink A small device is enough. The main thing is that this plunger has not previously been used in the bathroom or toilet.
Cover the drain hole of the sink with a plunger cap, press it, and then open the hot water tap. When the water closes the cap, press the handle of the tool several times with force, pumping the water up and down. This will break the plug. After pumping the siphon with a plunger, the tool is raised so that the water washes away the remaining blockage.
Attention! If there is no plunger, and the sink needs to be cleaned urgently, you can use improvised means. A cardboard milk carton or similar item will do. The bag is inserted with a cut corner into the drain hole and sharply pressed from above several times.
Cleaning a sink with a plunger
Method 3: disassembling and washing the siphon
Before disassembling the siphon, you need to place a bucket under it so that water from the water seal does not spill onto the floor. Next wrench unscrew the settling cup, and if the structure is not collapsible, remove the entire siphon. Once the water has drained, you can start cleaning.
The section of pipe behind the siphon is checked and, if necessary, cleaned, and the device itself is thoroughly washed with household chemicals. You can use regular dish detergent, dissolved powder or washing gel. After cleaning, the siphon is collected in reverse order, checking the tightness of the connections and the position of the structure.
Siphon device
Method 4: sealing joints
If the smell appears because the joint between the drain and the sewer pipe has become depressurized, it needs to be sealed. The easiest way is to wrap it with foam, but it is better to use a special plumbing sealant.
Plumbing sealants are polymer-based compounds. They come in several types:
- Silicone. The most popular type of sealant. The composition adheres perfectly to substrates made of any materials, is not afraid of temperature changes, does not shrink and retains moisture well. This best choice for the kitchen. The only negative: silicone compounds are more expensive than other types of sealants.
- Acrylic. Advantages acrylic compositions– durability, moisture resistance and high temperatures, excellent adhesion. The disadvantages include a low degree of elasticity, which is why after a while the seams can become depressurized again. Acrylic sealants can be moisture- and non-moisture-resistant, so when purchasing, you should carefully read the information on the packaging.
- Silicone-acrylic. These are sealants that have combined best properties silicone and acrylic compounds. They are suitable not only for sealing seams, but also for gluing surfaces.
- Polyurethane. Compositions of this type are distinguished by excellent technical and operational properties; after hardening, they can be coated with paint. The disadvantages include a strong toxic odor. When working with polyurethane compounds, you have to use gloves and masks.
Silicone sealant
When choosing a sealant for the kitchen, it makes sense to choose a sanitary silicone composition with the addition of fungicides. Such materials disinfect and seal joints tightly. They prevent the appearance of fungus, mold, and the proliferation of microorganisms. Products have proven themselves well brands Tytan, “Moment”, Ceresit, Ciki Fix.
To prepare the surfaces, you will need alcohol or acetone and a dry, soft rag, and to apply the sealant, a narrow soft spatula. The joints are wiped dry and degreased. After this, the sealant is squeezed out so that it covers the entire joint in a single strip without breaks. The seams are smoothed with a spatula. After using the sealant, the room must be ventilated.
Applying sealant
Method 5: protecting the water seal from drying out
If the stench from the sewer appears due to the evaporation of water in the water seal, then you should use the sink more often. In a house where people live permanently, but due to circumstances rarely use the kitchen sewer, it is enough to sometimes open the tap to replenish the amount of water in the water seal.
If we are talking about a dacha that is not visited for several days or weeks, then the water seal here needs to be protected with an oil film. Ideal option– use machine oil, but regular vegetable oil will do. A small amount of oil is poured into the drain hole and left without rinsing. The film will not allow water to evaporate, and air from the sewer will not enter the room.
Scheme of operation of the water seal
Method 6: disinfection with soda and salt
Baking soda and salt are excellent disinfectants that can be used both to eliminate sewer odors and for prevention. Salt, baking soda or washing soda are poured into the sink drain hole, left for 20 minutes, then rinsed with plenty of water.
A simple clog can be cleared with soda and vinegar. To do this, pour half a pack of soda into the drain, pour a glass of vinegar on top and plug the hole with a rag. The mixture reacts and releases air bubbles, which “tear off” dirt particles from the inner surface of the pipes. After 20 minutes, the drain is washed with water.
Another option is citric acid. A big pack citric acid pour into the drain hole and pour boiling water over it. When hot water and acid come into contact, a reaction occurs, releasing gas. The effect is the same as when using soda and vinegar.
Drain cleaning products
Method 7: washing with special means
Manufacturers of household chemicals produce a wide variety of drain cleaning products. They dissolve blockages, remove plaque on pipes, disinfect, and eliminate any odors.
We offer 5 popular cleaners that customers appreciate:
- "Mole". Remains a top seller for decades. The reason is simple: it is a truly effective cleaner that dissolves grease, food debris, and hair. Sold in liquid and granule form. Liquid “Mole” is less aggressive than granular one. It is recommended for plastic pipes. When using granules, you should strictly adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations so as not to damage the plastic.
- "Floop." This is a powerful granular product. It is poured into the sink drain hole and filled with cold or hot water. The higher the water temperature, the faster the reaction occurs, but in any case, “Floop” will corrode all deposits on the pipes and reliably eliminate the stench.
- "Tiret." Many consumers prefer the Tiret cleaner. It is suitable for all types of pipes and works quickly and efficiently. Cleaning the drain will take from 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the blockage. Tiret is safe, so you can leave it in the system overnight if you wish.
- "Pothan." Pothan cleaner is very effective, but can be hazardous to health, so when using it, you should use gloves and protect your eyes and skin, otherwise you can get serious chemical burns. To remove small blockages, 3 minutes is enough. The only drawback of Pothan is its high cost.
- "Mr. Muscle" An excellent tool for the prevention and removal of small blockages. Available in different forms (powder, gel, foam). Many buyers agree that Mr. Muscle foam is the best at eliminating odors.
Tiret sewer cleaner
Video: a simple way to eliminate odor
Determine the cause of the odor coming from the kitchen sink, decide how to remove it, and take preventative measures to avoid this problem in the future. Use a sink strainer to keep food debris out of the drain, and rinse the drain with hot water after washing dishes. Once a month, clean the system with soda, salt or special household chemicals. These simple methods will help prevent sewer problems and save your nerves.
Especially discomfort Every housewife gets a smell from the kitchen sink, and sometimes it’s simply not clear how to eliminate it. It looks like the dishes are being washed good remedy with an aromatic fragrance, and an additional mesh is placed on the drain hole, and the products are purchased fresh. But instead of the expected aromas of frying meat and vanilla pastries, there is a certain disgusting smell in the kitchen, the source of which is found near the sink.
It can be caused by several completely different things, and each individual case will require its own remedies. It’s even worse if the smell from the kitchen sink also extends into the bathroom. Here it is necessary to take emergency measures.
The sink has many functions, but its main purpose is to remove any dirt. A water tap is installed above it, and a drain is installed below it. The latter is connected to sewer pipes through which it pours dirty water. This is so simple that it might not even be mentioned, but if the sink is clean and no dirt is pouring back out of it, we can only assume that the problem is in sewer pipes. There may be several such problems. Most often, one malfunction leads to a second and, if there is no response, to a system failure. The most obvious ones might be:
- contamination of the pipe surface with fats and food debris;
- mechanical damage to the drain pipe;
- clogged sewer pipe;
- violation of the seal between the riser and the drain;
- installation flaws (incorrectly selected pipe cross-sectional diameter);
- deformation of the corrugated siphon;
- evaporation of moisture from the valve due to non-use of washing and (or) the presence of heating pipes under the valve.
If the housewife can deal with the first reason on her own, then everything else will require professional help - for the riser she will have to call mechanics from the housing office, restore the sealing, replace the corrugated pipe with a new one, and fix installation flaws by those who made them. The kitchen sink should work smoother and better than a watch, otherwise no cooking is possible. If the smell from the bathroom sink is noted only in the bathing and washing room, then the problem should be looked for there, but if it accompanies the kitchen stench, then the problem is in the pipes with which they are connected, or not only in them.
Unprofessional diagnosis of breakdowns
The first thing to do for this is to flush the pipes. The smell may disappear for a while and then reappear. This is a sure sign that the reasons are not just dirty walls. After this, you can observe the operation of the drainage system, for which you must first remove all items from the cabinet under the sink. If the water does not drain immediately, but with some delay, or stagnates in the sink, this is a sign of a blockage. It can be eliminated with a plunger while it is small, or using special products, the most professional of which can dissolve not only fat, but even human hair. Long-term stagnation in the sink, which cannot be removed by either method, requires the help of a plumber and the use of special tools.
If the water drains normally, but makes characteristic squelching sounds, this means that the riser is airy. You shouldn’t think about what this means, because a simple kitchen worker will not be able to do this, nor will she be able to replace pipes in case of cracking or depressurization. You need to call your husband, and if he cannot cope with the scope of work, then a plumber. If a flask siphon is installed in the system, then with all its undeniable advantages it must be periodically unscrewed and cleaned. Perhaps it is its clogging that is the source of unpleasant odors.
An unpleasant odor may also appear if the sink has not been used for a long time, but this disaster can be easily eliminated - before leaving for some time, pour a little into the sink sunflower oil, and upon arrival begin to actively use the sink again. This will prevent the possibility of bacterial growth.
Odor removal products
A kitchen aroma usually consists of several components, in which the unpleasant odor from the drain is completely unnecessary. With the modern development of industrial chemistry and an assortment of specialized products, it is possible to remove the smell of rotting food scraps, sewage, and other miasms from the sink completely without problems. Just go to any store and look at the overflowing shelves.
Products for cleaning kitchen pipes can be found in liquid, powder, alkali or acid based. Acid ones will not work if the pipes are made of plastic, although they work much more efficiently. For plastic pipes, Minute-gel or Tiret is ideal; for pipes of any type, Floop, which is increasingly popular due to its absolutely affordable price and ease of use. With the help of Chistin, you can eliminate not only the blockage, but also several other problems, because Chistin of liquid consistency is a multifunctional product. Recently, from the same manufacturer, a Chistin-clog appeared with a purely functional purpose.
Widespread, regardless of cost, and Mister Muscle, which is no different in effectiveness from cheaper products domestic production, except for the versatile functionality and beauty of the packaging. Don’t forget the good old Mole in all its forms: in a canister, bottle and bag, which perfectly combines all the necessary properties of a product for this purpose, including an absolutely affordable price. To use them you don’t need any subtleties or time.
and: any product is poured into the sink hole, after which the time indicated on the package is waited and washed with plenty of water.
Folk or improvised methods
Any housewife will try to remove the blockage with boiling water, but it will not necessarily be successful. It is well known that you can pour soda into a pipe, pour vinegar on top of it, and then plug the hole with a stopper so that the foam from the reaction does not come out. You can add a solution of baking soda and hot water. The smell will not disappear, but will noticeably weaken. Less known, but also effective, is pouring table salt or dry mustard into the kitchen drain. Mustard will not only fight off the unpleasant stench, but will also clean the pipes along the way. If you suddenly have Alka-Seltzer in the house, but there is no baking soda and vinegar, you can throw a few tablets of this product down the pipe. It also removes blockages quite effectively.
One of the folk remedies for removing blockages is the use of vinegar and soda. They perfectly kill unpleasant odors and dissolve accumulated dirt.
Do not be distrustful of folk remedies. If you add a couple of drops of oil with your favorite fragrance to the explosive mixture, a pleasant smell will spread throughout the kitchen. The only thing is that such a nuisance is the result of the action of a colony of putrefactive bacteria, and alkalis have a detrimental effect on them; it is also a kind of disinfection. You can use available means to take emergency measures, and purchase chemicals as needed. The main thing is not to forget to use protective equipment when using industrial chemicals: gloves, an apron, a respirator or a bandage.
To avoid unpleasant odors in the kitchen, it is necessary to take preventive measures. Cleanse dirty dishes from food residues, carefully remove any waste after cleaning vegetables or fruits, wash the pipes with boiling water with the addition of disinfectant detergents about once a week. If you make it a rule to disassemble the siphon once every 1-2 months and clean it of dirt, an unpleasant odor will not appear at all. Every six months, pipes should be treated for preventive purposes using detergent or the same soda, if the products are expensive.
All the causes of an unpleasant odor in the kitchen are quite simple and relatively easy to eliminate, and if you clean it on time and regularly, taking preventive measures, then miasma will not appear at all. In cases that are difficult to resolve, you can use the help of professionals. And when there are only pleasant smells in the kitchen, working in it is a pleasure, and the cooked food will taste better.
No matter how clean the housewife is, and no matter how carefully she monitors the cleanliness of the kitchen sink, over time, the problem of disgusting sewer smell will still arise. What to do and how to deal with this? There are two ways out of the situation: eliminate the unpleasant odor yourself or seek the help of a specialist.
Causes of odor
Sometimes the reason can be very simple, and the first thing every housewife resorts to when the kitchen sink stinks is to unscrew and clean the siphon. The fact is that over time, fat and dirt accumulate in the siphon, stick to the walls of the pipe, and rotting processes begin. This is what causes “sewage odors.” But these are not all possible problems.
So, let's try to understand the main reasons for the unpleasant sewage smell from your sink, other than the above. First of all, you need to understand the structure and functionality of the pipes running directly under the sink.
We all know what a siphon is. So, every siphon must have a water seal or a so-called water lock. After each drainage of water, a certain amount of liquid is retained in the S-shaped part of the siphon. Water here plays the role of a kind of plug, which traps odors from the drain pipe and does not allow them to spread throughout the kitchen.
Regardless of which siphon you have installed, corrugated or flask (also called a bottle siphon), the principle of operation of both is absolutely the same - there must always be water there as a barrier to odor. Violation of this principle leads to the appearance of a corresponding “aroma” that will become a curtain in your kitchen. So why does water stop staying in the siphon?
And how to eliminate the disgusting aroma?
- Often, instead of a siphon, a corrugated pipe is installed, which tends to stretch and sag over time. Even if the installation of the corrugated pipe and its S-shaped bend were carried out correctly, it will still lose its shape. In order to avoid this and delay the replacement of pipes for a long time, it is necessary to secure the corrugation using special devices. They should be purchased together with the pipe. Another way: secure the pipe with special insulating tape.
- The siphon was not installed correctly. Often difficulties arise with flask siphons. If the plastic pipe does not reach the water in the siphon flask, then an unpleasant odor is guaranteed, because sewer stench will leak above the water lock. This misunderstanding can be corrected by adjusting the position of the pipe. It should sink 2-3 cm into the water, but it should not touch the bottom of the flask.
- Also, a disgusting smell appears if the kitchen sink has not been used for a long time. If you have been away from home for a long time, and upon returning you notice that there is a smell from the kitchen sink, then most likely the problem is evaporated water from the siphon. To prevent this, you should pour some sunflower oil down the drain before leaving. The oil forms a thin film on the water, which will delay the rapid evaporation of water. Well, if you forgot to do this or didn’t know about this option, then you just need to drain more water. After some time, the disgusting smell will disappear.
- Probably one of the most common problems with a kitchen sink is repairing or even installing it yourself. If the corrugated pipe was not installed by a specialist, then it is likely that an “economical method” of installation was used. In this case, the water seal may not be formed correctly, causing water to either rise back into the sink, or not be retained and go down the drain. There are also cases of stretching the corrugation and “sticking” it directly into the riser. Believe me, you shouldn't do this.
Other Causes of Bad Kitchen Sink Odor
Sometimes the problem may lie not only in the siphon or not correct installation.
A disgusting odor may also appear due to the following reasons:
- Cracking or others mechanical damage drain pipes can also cause odor. Water seeps through and saturates the walls and floor, which over time begin to grow mold.
- Airing the riser. If the riser becomes very clogged, then when water passes through it, characteristic sounds are heard, after which a sewer stench appears. In this case, you will have to contact the housing office, because you cannot do it yourself.
- The seal between the sewer and the drain has disappeared. In this case, you need to go over the joint with sealant again. It is best to choose silicone sealant.
In principle, the problem of odor coming from the kitchen sink is quite common even among diligent housewives. The smell of the sewer is crazy and makes you think hard about whether to fix the problem yourself or call a qualified specialist. We will be happy to resolve your dilemma and show you that this issue can be easily resolved on your own.
Where does the smell come from?
The first question that comes to mind when their kitchen sink smells bad is where is it coming from? And here, first of all, it is important to turn your attention to the siphon, which often causes an unpleasant odor in the event of a malfunction. Over time, grease and dirt adhere to the pipe walls, which, when rotting, cause a disgusting sewer smell. Solving the problem is simple - just disassemble the siphon and clean it. But if everything were so simple, this article would not have arisen. The cause of a bad odor is not always the accumulation of grease and dirt.
If an unpleasant odor occurs from the sink, the siphon should be the first thing to pay attention to.
There are many other reasons. But to understand their essence, it is important to understand the operation and structure of the pipes running under the sink. Let's try to get into it.
Everyone who has installed it or at least looked under the sink from time to time knows about the siphon. This is where the so-called water seal or water lock, to be called differently, is contained. In the part that resembles the letter S in shape, after each use of the sink and draining the water, a small supply of liquid remains, blocking the flow of unpleasant odors from the sewer into the kitchen. In other words, water plays the role of a cork.
The principle of this locking mechanism is unchanged, whether you have a corrugated or flask (also called a bottle) siphon. As soon as this principle is violated, a deadly smell appears from the sink. So the main reason for its appearance is now clear. But if water stops staying in the siphon, then why and what to do about it? Let's look at different examples.
Let's start with the fact that often instead of a siphon they install a corrugated pipe, which has one unpleasant property - to stretch and sag. Even if the pipe is installed correctly, it will still lose its shape over time. To extend its service life for many years, it is better to purchase special devices for securing it complete with the pipe. Insulating tape can also serve as a retainer. But this method is rather considered temporary.
Siphons are installed incorrectly - this is a fact. This usually happens when installing a drain system yourself. The plastic pipe does not reach the water in the flask, and the unpleasant smell finds its way into the world of the kitchen. Solving the problem is quite easy - you need to adjust the pipe. It should be recessed 2-3 cm in the water, but not reach the bottom.
The siphon must be installed correctly so that the water lock protects against unpleasant odors.
The simplest example of the appearance of an unpleasant odor is the long absence of the owners from the apartment. During this time, the water in the flask has time to evaporate. To significantly slow down the process of its evaporation, it is recommended to add a little sunflower oil to the drain before leaving. It forms a film on the surface of the water that prevents rapid evaporation. If the water still evaporates, you will need to pour more water into the pipe, and soon the foul odor will disappear.
It’s better not to skimp on installing a siphon - this is the main guarantee of clean air in the kitchen
Often self installation or repairing the drain system leads to a problem due to the formation of an incorrect clog. The water either goes down the drain without touching it or rushes back into the sink. Stretching the corrugation is something you already know, and you shouldn’t install it directly on the riser. Saving in this case is only harmful.
Other reasons
Not only these reasons limit the appearance of odor in the kitchen. Sometimes cracks in the pipe or mechanical damage can cause water to leak and get onto the walls and floor, and there, in turn, mold begins to actively grow.
An extremely unpleasant thing - airing of the riser - appears when there is severe blockage. Accompanied by corresponding rumbling sounds when draining the water and the subsequent appearance of a terrible stench. Usually in this case the problem is so great that it will be necessary to invite specialists.
The joint between the sewer and the drain is a rather delicate place, and its tightness can sometimes be broken. Here it is important to timely treat the joint with sealant, preferably silicone.
Getting rid of the smell
Basically, before calling a specialist, owners try to figure out the problem themselves, and often emerge victorious in the fight against it. Having experience in business matters is a huge help in this case and an opportunity to save a little. In addition, in the age of the Internet, it is quite easy to find an article about solving a corresponding problem and use pictures to study the stages of eliminating it.
If a smell appears, first of all we check the corrugated pipe for stretching and, if it is detected, we fix it in the desired position using electrical tape. This measure is temporary - until you purchase a new pipe (and this must be done) along with fasteners.
You can resort to the use of chemicals. They are easy to get and just as easy to use. They often provide positive effect(unless, of course, the blockage is major) and at the same time they have completely affordable prices. People like the domestic “Mole” and the foreign “Domestos” and “Cillit” are popular among the people.
If you are against chemistry, use folk remedies. So salt is poured into the drain hole and after a while the water flow is opened. The combination of baking soda and water has worked well. Two tablespoons of soda are poured into a liter of boiling water, mixed and immediately sent down the drain.
Photo gallery of chemical and folk remedies for removing blockages
Salt - folk remedy for cleaning pipes 
Clog clearer 
Clog clearer 
Clog clearer 
Baking soda is a powerful folk remedy for cleaning pipes
Technical means
The simplest technical tool is a plunger. We take a little water to submerge it and make simple jerking movements without lifting the plunger from the sink.
Plunger is the simplest of technical means which is in every home
In addition to the plunger, you can use a plumbing cable (or string, to call it differently). It is essentially a long wire coiled into a spring with a handle on one end for convenience. Its length combined with flexibility allows it to reach the most remote and hard to reach places. This good way removing the blockage (if it was this that caused the stench). To help, you can turn on the water and vigorously work with the cable. If it does not push through, you can return it using a reciprocating motion.
The plumbing cable allows you to get rid of the most inaccessible and complex blockages due to its length and flexibility
A flexible hose with a conical tip has a similar property, with which you can clear the blockage. The hose is used together with strong water pressure in small-diameter pipes, that is, just like those installed in the kitchen. The hose entry point is clogged with rags to prevent water from pouring into the sink.
This method cannot be used after using chemicals, since in case of severe blockage, water may flow back together with them.
Removing a clog in the sink (video)
Using the above methods, you can fix the problem without resorting to the help of specialists, except perhaps in the most difficult cases. And then fresh air will reign in your kitchen for a long time.