Sewage smell from kitchen sink at night?« Back to Previous Page

Good evening. A sewage smell emanating from your kitchen sink, particularly in the evenings, is a common yet serious issue here in Dubai, and you are right to address it promptly. The high humidity and constant AC usage can exacerbate musty odours and allow them to circulate throughout your apartment.

First, there are a few immediate checks you can perform. The most likely culprit is a dried-out P-trap. If a drain is not used regularly, the water seal in the U-bend under your sink evaporates, allowing sewer gases to enter the home. This is common with guest bathrooms and can affect kitchen sinks that see less use. Simply run water down the drain for a minute to refill the trap. Secondly, check for any food debris trapped in the sink strainer or disposal unit if you have one. Clean it thoroughly with a baking soda and vinegar solution.

However, if the smell persists only at night, it could indicate a more significant problem. Increased water usage in your building during evening hours can cause negative pressure in the sewage lines, forcing gases back up through weak seals in your plumbing system. It could also be a partial blockage beginning to form in your building's main stack.

Given the potential for underlying issues, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. In Dubai, landlords are obligated under Law No. (26) of 2007, known as the Dubai Rental Law, to maintain the property's essential services, which includes functioning sanitation systems. You should inform your landlord of the issue immediately to document your concern.

For a definitive diagnosis and solution, contact a specialist. At Saniservice, we use smoke testing and CCTV drain surveys to precisely locate the source of such odours, whether it's a broken seal, cracked pipe, or a more complex ventilation issue. Do not ignore this, as sewer gas contains methane and can be a health risk.

For immediate assistance, please call Saniservice at 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com. Our team can provide a swift assessment and resolve the issue professionally.