What is that smell?
The horrible stench taking up space in your home is called hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is a very dangerous chemical. After you have been in the presence of this smell for a while it is normal for you to become used to it. However, it is very important for you to address the issue right away. Hydrogen sulfide has no color, is very flammable, and extremely hazardous.
What causes the sewer smell in a mobile home?
Beneath your bathroom or kitchen sink, you will find a plumbing fixture called a P-trap. The purpose of your P-trap is to capture the debris that drains from the sink, prevent clogs and prevent gas leaks from entering your home. Some of the items your P-trap catches when functioning properly are soap residue, hair, grease, and food particles. A good P-trap will be anywhere between 2 and 4 inches long. When your P-trap is empty of water or has been cracked, it may leak the awful smell you are currently experiencing.
How do I clean my P-trap?
Before you call a plumber, we recommend giving this method a try. First, purchase a hand snake from your local hardware store. Back at home, you’ll find a stopper under the sink, which you need to remove. In order to do this, unscrew your pivot nut which is connected to your drain pipe. Next, use the hand snake to clear your P-trap of any gunk. Insert the hand-snake down the drain and crank the handle. This action will grip onto everything clogging your trap. You may find a lot of unexpected items coming up as you unclog your P-trap. Repeat your snaking motion several times, and then clean your stopper. Be sure to safely dispose of all the items found clogging your P-trap. Do not flush the items down your toilet, as that could cause another clog.
How do I know if I need a new P-trap?
Check your P-trap for any malfunctions. When doing so, place a bucket or container beneath the P-trap to prevent causing a huge mess in your mobile home. Look for a pair of coupling nuts that attach your P-trap to your sink. Safely using a pair of pliers, remove the coupling nuts. If you can not get the coupling nuts to move, or if they simply fall apart, you will have to replace your P-trap.
If you choose to call your local plumber to replace your P-trap, it will probably cost you anywhere in between $160 to $430. Some plumbers charge hourly rates ranging anywhere between $45 to $150. You can also replace your P-trap on your own. To do this, detach your P-trap from the sink by removing the coupling nuts. Make sure that your new P-trap is a minimum of 1” long. Place your new P-trap in the proper position beneath your sink, and attach your coupling nuts.
Breathe easy!
Now that you know how to get rid of that sewer smell in your mobile home, you don’t have to worry about breathing in toxic fumes. Read this article if you want to get to know the rest of your mobile home drain system.