How to Prevent a Rarely Used Floor Drain from Drying Out and Emitting Smells

Managing rarely used floor drains, especially those near laundry machines or water heaters, can be a nuisance. These drains can easily dry out, leading to the emission of unpleasant odors. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the functionality and cleanliness of your plumbing system. This article will provide you with several effective strategies for preventing your rarely used floor drain from drying out.

Methods to Prevent Drying Out

Regularly Add Water: Pour a cup of water down the drain once a month to maintain the water level in the trap. This water acts as a barrier against sewer gases, ensuring a fresh and odor-free environment. Use Mineral Oil: After adding water, add a thin layer of mineral oil on top. This helps slow down the evaporation of water in the trap, reducing the risk of drying and odors. Install a Trap Primer: Consider installing a trap primer, which is a device that automatically adds water to the trap at regular intervals. This is particularly useful if the drain is connected to a plumbing system that allows for such an installation. Cover the Drain: If feasible, cover the drain with a removable cover when not in use. This can help reduce evaporation and prevent debris from entering the drain. Check for Leaks: Ensure there are no leaks in the plumbing system that could be causing water to drain away from the trap, leading to drying out. Use a Drain Seal: Place a drain seal or plug designed for floor drains over the drain when it's not in use. This prevents evaporation when the drain is not in use.

Additional Tips

In addition to the aforementioned strategies, another effective method is to pour a couple of tablespoons of vegetable oil down the drain. The oil will float on top of the water in the trap, preventing it from evaporating too quickly, and works well for extended periods.

Regular Maintenance

Regularly maintaining your floor drain is essential. Depending on the usage, you may need to periodically pour water down the floor drain opening. A one-quart vessel should be sufficient, and this can be done once a month. If sewer gas odors persist, increase the frequency to once every two weeks. Depending on your location, you might need to do it weekly or even more frequently.

Professional Assistance

If you're in a desert area or an area prone to violent, turbulent wind storms, these weather conditions can accelerate water loss from plumbing traps. In such cases, consult a plumbing contractor to explore practical solutions like installing a trap priming connection from a nearby regularly used fixture or from a trap primer valve. These solutions will keep the trap primed without wasting significant amounts of potable water.

By following these tips and strategies, you can effectively keep your rarely used floor drain functional and odor-free, ensuring a pleasant and healthy environment in your home or workplace.