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Pipes that smell is a common problem in many homes. Plumbers get asked a lot, “Why do plumbing pipes smell?” There are many reasons why this might happen, and we will detail about 4 of them.
Why Do Plumbing Pipes Smell
Reason #1: Sulphuric Acid
One of the most common reasons for smelly plumbing is acid. Acids can cause a wide array of smells, which are pungent and unpleasant. If you smell something like this in your home, it is likely that you have a problem with your plumbing.
The most common type of acid in homes is sulphuric acid. Sulphuric acid can come from a variety of different sources, such as drain cleaners or chemical reactions caused by corrosion.
When this acid starts to leak, it can cause a horrible smell. If you are experiencing this issue, it is important to call a plumber right away to get the problem fixed. Failing to do so could result in serious damage to your home.
Reason #2: Sewer Gases
Another common source of smelly plumbing is sewer gases. These gases come from the sewers and can be extremely unpleasant smelling. They often smell rotting eggs or sewage and can be very noticeable.
When sewer gases find their way into a home, it is important to immediately ventilate the space as well as contact a plumber. Sewer gas can be very harmful and should not be inhaled for any period of time at all.
In fact, even if you are just smelling them in your plumbing system, it is best to get them removed by an expert right away so that they do not spread throughout your home or cause damage.
Reason #3: Biological Waste
Another common source of bad smells coming from pipes is biological waste material such as urine. This particular issue often occurs with toilets because new toilet paper has been flushed but old dry tissue remains stuck inside the drainpipe behind the bowl, where it decomposes over time, releasing gas.
If you notice this smell, it is important to remove the tissue and clean out any excess material left behind to avoid further smelly problems. You can also occasionally pour some bleach down the drain, which will help with this issue. Just make sure not to mix bleach with ammonia or other chemicals because toxic fumes could occur otherwise!
Reason #4: Leaky Pipes
Last but certainly not least, one of the main reasons why plumbing pipes smell is due to leaky pipes within your home’s drainage system.
If there are leaks on any part of your piping, they will start releasing sewer gas into areas where people normally reside, like bedrooms, living rooms, etc., thus creating a nasty stench throughout homes when trying to cook, watch TV or take a nap.
If you notice an increase in bad smells around your home, you will likely have a plumbing leak. The best way to determine if this is the case is by visually inspecting your piping for any wet spots or water droplets. If you do find evidence of a leak, be sure to call a plumber as soon as possible to get it fixed!
Now that you know some of the most common reasons why plumbing pipes smell, be sure to keep them in mind next time you start experiencing an odd odor in your home.
If you can identify where the smell is coming from and what might be causing it, you can fix the issue before it gets worse! For more information about plumbing, be sure to contact a local plumber.
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