Have you noticed an unpleasant smell in your kitchen, something similar to a rotten egg smell? That could be more than just leftover trash or a dirty drain. If you’re wondering what is sewer gas on kitchen plumbing, you’re not alone. Sewer gas is a common issue in homes and businesses across Lamar, Missouri, and it can point to deeper plumbing problems.
What Is Sewer Gas?
Sewer gas is a mixture of toxic gases such as hydrogen sulfide, methane, and ammonia. These gases form during the decomposition of organic material in your plumbing system. Normally, they are safely vented out through your sewer pipes and rooftop sewer vents. But when something isn’t working correctly, these gases can back up into your kitchen and other parts of your home.
Besides being unpleasant, prolonged chronic exposure to sewer gas can lead to health problems like headaches, nausea, and fatigue. It can also be a fire hazard. In some cases, a malfunctioning municipal sewer connection could be to blame.
Where Sewer Gas Comes From in Kitchen Plumbing
There are several reasons sewer gas might enter through your kitchen drains:
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Dry P-Trap: The U-shaped section of pipe below the sink, also called a drain trap, holds water to create an airtight seal. When it dries out, gas can seep in.
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Clogged Drains: Built-up food waste, grease, and soap scum can cause a drain clog, trapping stagnant water and gas.
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Loose Seals: A worn-out drain plug, corroded fittings, or broken gaskets around your overflow drain can allow sewer gas to escape.
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Ventilation Issues: A blocked or broken vent prevents proper air pressure balance, pushing gas back into the home instead of out through the roof.
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Other Fixtures: If your bathroom sink, toilet bowl, or even basement drains have problems, they may contribute to odors in your kitchen through connected plumbing.
When To Call a Professional
While some sewer gas problems can be handled with simple home fixes, others are signs of a larger issue. Here are a few situations where it’s a good idea to bring in a licensed plumber:
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The smell keeps coming back: If you have already cleaned your drains and refilled the traps but the odor still lingers, there may be a hidden leak or broken seal in your plumbing.
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More than one fixture smells: If you notice sewer gas near your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and even your basement drains, the problem might involve your whole system.
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Drains make odd noises: Gurgling sounds, bubbling, or slow drainage could mean there is a blockage or a venting problem that needs a closer look.
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Clogs are happening often: Frequent drain clogs, even after cleaning, can be a sign of buildup or damage deeper in the pipes that store-bought products cannot fix.
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There might be a vent issue: If the sewer vents are blocked or not working correctly, gases can get trapped and pushed into your home. These vents are often located on the roof and should be inspected safely by a professional.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to have a trusted plumber inspect the system and fix the problem before it gets worse. Early action helps prevent damage and keeps your home safe and comfortable.
Prevent Problems Early and Trust Jeffries for Reliable Repairs
Sewer gas in your kitchen plumbing is a problem that no home or business should ignore. With the right mix of preventative maintenance and timely plumbing repairs, you can stop unpleasant smells, protect your health, and keep your plumbing running smoothly.
If you’re in or near Lamar, Missouri and are looking for plumbing services near you, count on the trusted team at Jeffries Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. With a reputation for honesty, prompt service, and lasting solutions, we’re here to handle all your plumbing needs. Contact Jeffries online or call us at (417) 682-5727 to schedule an inspection or repair.
