Smelly Floor Drain In Basement

A smelly floor drain in the basement can be a nuisance and an indicator of a more serious plumbing issue. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to identify and fix the problem.

1. Clean the Drain

The first step is to clean the drain. Hair, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate in the drain over time, causing it to smell. To clean the drain, remove the drain cover and use a drain snake or auger to remove any debris. You can also pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.

2. Check the P-Trap

The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe that is located under the drain. It is designed to trap water, which prevents sewer gases from escaping into the basement. If the P-trap is clogged or damaged, it can cause the drain to smell. To check the P-trap, remove the drain cover and look for any debris or damage. If the P-trap is clogged, you can use a drain snake or auger to clear it. If the P-trap is damaged, you will need to replace it.

3. Inspect the Vent Pipe

The vent pipe is a pipe that runs from the drain to the roof. It is designed to allow sewer gases to escape from the plumbing system. If the vent pipe is clogged or damaged, it can cause the drain to smell. To inspect the vent pipe, climb onto the roof and look for any debris or damage. If the vent pipe is clogged, you can use a drain snake or auger to clear it. If the vent pipe is damaged, you will need to call a plumber to repair or replace it.

4. Check the Sewer Line

If the drain is still smelly after you have cleaned the drain, checked the P-trap, and inspected the vent pipe, the problem may be with the sewer line. The sewer line is the pipe that carries wastewater away from your home. If the sewer line is clogged or damaged, it can cause sewage to back up into the drain, which can cause the drain to smell.

To check the sewer line, you can use a drain camera. A drain camera is a small camera that is attached to a flexible cable. The camera can be inserted into the drain to inspect the condition of the sewer line. If the sewer line is clogged, you can use a drain snake or auger to clear it. If the sewer line is damaged, you will need to call a plumber to repair or replace it.

5. Call a Plumber

If you have tried all of the above steps and the drain is still smelly, you should call a plumber. A plumber can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.