Bathroom Drain Smells Like Sewer

If your bathroom drain smells like sewer, it can be a real nuisance. Not only is it unpleasant to smell, but it can also be a sign of a more serious problem. There are a few different things that can cause a bathroom drain to smell like sewer, and depending on the cause, there are a few different ways to fix it.

Dry P-Trap

One of the most common causes of a bathroom drain smelling like sewer is a dry P-trap. A P-trap is a curved pipe that is installed under the sink or bathtub. It is designed to trap water, which creates a seal that prevents sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom. If the P-trap dries out, it can allow sewer gases to escape, which can cause the drain to smell like sewer.

To fix a dry P-trap, simply pour a cup of water down the drain. This will refill the P-trap and create the seal that is needed to prevent sewer gases from escaping.

Clogged Drain

Another common cause of a bathroom drain smelling like sewer is a clogged drain. When a drain is clogged, it can prevent water from draining properly. This can cause water to sit in the drain, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and mold. The bacteria and mold can produce gases that can cause the drain to smell like sewer.

To fix a clogged drain, you can try using a drain cleaner or a plunger. If these methods do not work, you may need to call a plumber to snake the drain.

Cracked Drainpipe

In some cases, a bathroom drain may smell like sewer because the drainpipe is cracked. A cracked drainpipe can allow sewer gases to escape into the bathroom. This can be a serious problem, as it can allow harmful gases to enter your home.

To fix a cracked drainpipe, you will need to call a plumber. The plumber will need to replace the cracked drainpipe with a new one.

Other Causes

In some cases, a bathroom drain may smell like sewer due to other causes, such as:

A faulty vent system
A damaged septic tank
A leaking sewer line

If you have tried the above solutions and your bathroom drain still smells like sewer, it is important to call a plumber to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.