Is That Smell Coming from Your Water or Your Drain?
Having clean, fresh water in your home is essential—not just for drinking, but for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your whole house water filtration system is working properly. But what happens when something smells… off?
If you notice an unpleasant odor when turning on your tap—especially in the kitchen or bathroom—you might assume the problem lies in your water supply. However, that’s not always the case. In many situations, the odor isn’t from the water at all—it’s coming from your sink drain.
How to Tell if the Smell Is from Your Water or Your Drain
Here’s a simple test you can do:
- Let your tap run for 15–30 seconds.
- Fill a clean glass with the water.
- Take the glass outside or into another room.
- Smell and taste the water.
If the water smells and tastes fine, your filtration system is doing its job—the odor is likely coming from the drain, not your water supply.
Common Causes of Smelly Drains
Over time, sink drains can collect all sorts of debris—food particles, grease, soap scum, hair, and bacteria. This buildup releases unpleasant sulfur-like, musty, or sour smells that can easily be mistaken for bad water.
To prevent odors, regular drain cleaning is key. Luckily, you don’t need harsh chemicals or costly cleaning agents.
Safe and Natural Ways to Clean Your Drain
1. Dish Soap and Boiling Water
- Use a grease-cutting dish soap such as Dawn or Palmolive.
- Pour 2–3 tablespoons of dish soap down the drain.
- Slowly add a pan of boiling water and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Follow with another round of boiling water to rinse.
2. Vinegar and Lemon Juice
- Pour ½ cup of white vinegar or lemon juice down the drain.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Flush with hot water to clear residue and neutralize odors.
These natural methods are safe, affordable, and effective at eliminating bacteria and buildup—without harming your pipes or exposing your family to chemicals.
Keep Your Water Fresh, Inside and Out
If odors persist even after cleaning your drains, your filtration system may need maintenance. Filters and carbon media wear out over time and should be replaced regularly to keep your home’s water clean, odor-free, and safe.
Need help restoring fresh, clean water throughout your home? Contact Superior Water today to learn more about the WATERBOY™ Whole House Water Filtration System—trusted by Orange County homeowners for pure water from every tap.
