Smelly drains aren’t just unpleasant, they’re a sign that something isn’t working properly in your plumbing system. If you’ve noticed foul odours coming from your sink, shower, or toilet in Hornchurch, Romford or Dagenham, it’s time to investigate. From dried-out traps to faulty vents, here’s what could be going on and when it’s time to call a professional.
Understanding the Most Common Causes of Drain Smells
Unpleasant drain odours usually come from gases that are meant to stay sealed within your pipework. When something disrupts that seal, smells from decomposing waste and stagnant water can seep into your living space.
The most common reason is a dry or faulty trap. Traps are U-shaped bends in the pipe under sinks, baths, or appliances. They hold a small amount of water that blocks smells from coming back up. If that water evaporates, such as in an unused bathroom or appliance—the barrier disappears and odours escape easily.
Another frequent culprit is a blocked or poorly vented pipe system. Drainage systems rely on vents to equalise air pressure and keep water seals in place. If a vent is blocked or incorrectly fitted, it can create suction that pulls water out of the traps, leaving your drains exposed.
Quick Checks You Can Do at Home
Before calling a plumber, you can try the following checks:
- Run water into unused sinks or showers to refill the trap
- Check for slow draining, which could suggest a partial blockage
- Smell near the plughole or overflow, odours here often point to local build-up
- Listen for gurgling sounds, which may signal venting issues
If the smell persists despite these steps, there may be a deeper issue within your plumbing system.
When to Call a Professional
Persistent odours can be caused by cracked pipework, poorly installed vents, or build-up deeper in the waste system that home remedies won’t reach. In these cases, a plumber can use diagnostic tools such as drain cameras or smoke tests to locate the fault.
It’s especially important to call a professional if:
- The smell is coming from multiple drains
- There are signs of water backing up or leaking
- DIY fixes haven’t resolved the issue
- You suspect damage to underground or external drainage
Addressing the problem early helps prevent long-term damage, water leaks, or even health issues caused by exposure to sewer gases.
Smelly Drains in Hornchurch, Romford or Dagenham?
RDS Plumbing Ltd offers professional drain inspections, trap repairs and ventilation checks for homeowners across Hornchurch, Romford and Dagenham. If your drains are starting to smell, we’ll find the cause and sort it quickly. Call us on 08000282031 or 01708444685, or fill out our contact form to book a visit today.
