If you’ve noticed an unpleasant smell coming from your drain, you may have a serious plumbing problem on your hands. The most common causes of sink drain odors include mold and mildew, bacteria, clogs, and sulfates. Whether you can know the source of your drain’s odor or not, call Hicks Plumbing for hydro jetting and drain cleaning services.

The professional team at Hicks Plumbing provides plumbing services across McLean, VA. We are a full-service plumbing company with over 30 years of experience addressing all sorts of plumbing issues. Our clients rave about our technicians’ workmanship and professionalism. For more information on how we can solve your plumbing problems, contact us today at (703) 803-7466.

Below, we discuss five common causes for smelly sink drains:

1. Mold and Mildew

The most likely culprit of sink drain odors is mold and mildew. When water escapes from a leaky pipe or missing plumbing component, it can soak into surrounding surfaces and create a tell-tale moldy smell. This sometimes occurs due to plumbing errors; if you notice an odor right after receiving plumbing work, call your plumber and have them check into the smell.

2. Bacteria

If you find no leaky pipe or mold, you should then check your drain for bacterial growth. While plumbing systems generally have a minor bacteria presence, an overgrowth—or accumulation of the wrong kind of bacteria—can create horrible smells. 

Considering all the substances that pass through a sink drain, you can expect bacterial growth and its odors. Nevertheless, contact your plumbing service for help. While present, they can also inspect your pipes for clogs.

3. Clogs

Another common cause of drain odors, clogs occur when food waste and other materials get trapped in your pipes and release odorous gases. Homes that receive irregular use, like vacation homes, are particularly prone to clogs. If you own such a property, you should have its plumbing inspected regularly.

You can also prevent clogs by never pouring certain substances down the drain, such as grease and coffee grounds. Such materials tend to build up and block pipes over time.

4. Sulfates

If you notice a “rotten egg” smell emanating from your sink drain, your water may have an excess of sulfate. An overabundance of sulfates can also cause drainage problems, so the odor could be a result of both sulfates and a clogged drain. Although sulfates aren’t necessarily toxic, they may cause digestive problems, so you have good reason to get the problem fixed. Seek professional assistance to handle the issue properly.

Hicks Plumbing: Expert Hydro Jetting in McLean, VA

If you’ve noticed sink drain smells, ask for professional hydro jetting services from 

Hicks Plumbing. We’re a full-service plumbing company, prepared to provide the service you need. Our licensed plumbers and technicians are proud to serve our clients in McLean, VA, and are happy to fix all your plumbing problems. For a reliable plumbing service, call (703) 803-7466 today.