Have you ever noticed a foul smell wafting through your home after having a CCTV drain survey? It's an issue that perplexes many homeowners. While CCTV drain surveys are essential for diagnosing underlying drainage problems, they can occasionally lead to unexpected issues like bad odours. Understanding the root causes and knowing how to address them can ensure your home remains fresh and hygienic.
What Causes Bad Smells After a CCTV Drain Survey?
A CCTV drain survey involves inserting a camera into your drainage system to inspect the pipes' condition. This non-invasive technique helps identify blockages, structural issues, or collapses within the drains. However, this process can disturb settled debris and buildup, sometimes releasing trapped gases or causing old blockages to move and emit smells.
Disturbed Sediments and Buildup
During a survey, the camera and equipment might disturb sediments that have built up over time, releasing unpleasant odours that were previously contained. Decaying organic matter, including food remnants and grease, contribute significantly to these smells.
Loosened Blockages
The movement of the camera can also loosen partial blockages not initially causing an odour issue. Once these blockages are disturbed, they can release accumulated gases like hydrogen sulphide, commonly recognised by its rotten egg smell.
Seal Disruption
In some cases, the survey process might temporarily disrupt the seals in your drain’s access points or inspection chambers. This can allow sewer gases to escape into the environment, particularly if the seals are not properly reinstated after the survey.
How to Spot the Issue
The first sign is an obvious one: an unpleasant smell emerging from drains or inspection hatches soon after a survey. You might also notice more frequent smells in certain areas, particularly lower levels of the house like basements where drainage access points are common.
Fixing the Problem: DIY Tips
1. Flush the System: Run a large volume of water through your drains. This can help flush out any disturbed sediments or debris loosened by the survey equipment. It’s simple but effective in clearing minor newly loosened blockages.
2. Clean the Access Points: Sometimes, debris can collect around the seals of inspection chambers. Cleaning these areas and ensuring they are tightly sealed can prevent odours from escaping.
3. Biological Cleaners: For organic buildup, consider using enzyme-based biological cleaners. These products help break down organic matter naturally without damaging your pipes.
When to Call a Professional
If the odours persist after trying the above DIY fixes, it may indicate a more significant issue uncovered by the survey, like a hidden blockage or a structural defect in the pipes. Persistent bad smells are a warning sign that should not be ignored. A professional plumber or drainage specialist can help diagnose and rectify the problem with more advanced techniques such as mechanical cleaning or even repair works if necessary.
Prevention Tips
1. Regular Maintenance: Have regular CCTV drain surveys and cleanings to prevent the build-up that leads to blockages and odours. Early detection of potential problems can save a lot of hassle.
2. Dispose of Waste Properly: Avoid pouring fats, oils and grease down your kitchen sink. These can solidify in the pipes leading to odour issues. Also, be mindful of what you flush down the toilet.
3. Check Ventilation: Ensure that your drainage system is well-ventilated. A well-designed vent system allows sewer gases to escape and air to circulate within the drainage pipes, reducing the risk of bad odours.
Conclusion
While it might be disheartening to encounter fresh odour issues after a CCTV drain survey, understanding the causes equips you with the knowledge to tackle them effectively. Whether through simple flushing, cleaning around access points, or using biological cleaners, most smells can be addressed at home. Remember, persistent smells after a survey should be looked at by a professional. Keeping your drains in good shape not only prevents odour issues but also maintains the overall health of your home’s plumbing system.
