Why is there a smell coming from my shower drain?
We moved into a flat 5 weeks ago and everything was fine, but about a week ago the shower drain started to emit a sulphur smell. The managing agent sent around a plumber who said it isn't blocked as only soapy water came up in the hoover, and it's draining well. His fix was to run hot water for 5mins. This does help with the smell but only very temporarily. The smell is back after 15mins or so.
What is causing this smell and what can I do other than continually running hot water to make it go away.
Advice from 2 local tradespeople
The sulfur smell from your shower drain is likely due to the buildup of bacteria and/or organic matter in the drain. When these materials decompose, they release hydrogen sulfide gas, which is what causes the unpleasant odor. While running hot water can help to temporarily alleviate the smell, it won't solve the underlying problem.
To address the issue, you could try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by boiling water. This can help to break down and remove any buildup of organic matter. Another option is to use a commercial drain cleaner, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid using too much as it can damage your pipes.
It's also worth considering if there are any other potential sources of the odor, such as a problem with the sewer system or a gas leak. If the problem persists despite your efforts to clean the drain, it may be worth contacting a professional plumber or your local utilities provider to investigate further."
If there's been a professional out and he says its not blocked then it may be a leak. I would say get a plumber out to send camera down to make sure.
