Sewer smells may be a result of poor drainage or decomposing food particles.
A sewer smell emanating from the dishwasher is not only unpleasant but also a health hazard. Sewer gases carry microbes and pathogens such as salmonella and Escherichia coli that may cause serious health problems and potentially fatal diseases. In other cases, the sulfuric smell may not originate from the sewer line but may be the odorous byproduct of decomposing food or stagnant water, a less harmful but still unsanitary issue.
Improper Plumbing
Properly plumbed, installed and used, dishwashers rarely present odor problems. The dishwasher drainer is, in many installations, connected to the kitchen sink drain. According to many municipal building codes, every fixture drain requires an air vent to provide proper air circulation throughout the plumbing drain system. Signs of inadequate venting include gurgling or bubbling sounds in drains, sounds of siphoning as the air pressure suctions the small amount of water from the drain trap and sewer gases emanating from open drains. Sewer gases are a potential health threat, spewing pathogens into the air. Methane, a component of sewer gases, is explosive. The plumbing system should be inspected to ensure that drains are vented properly.
Drain Hose Problems
Additionally, some state building codes requires an air gap, a drainpipe that loops higher than the sink drain. The air gap, or "high drain loop," prevents waste water backflow from siphoning into the dishwasher during the drain cycle. Dishwashers lacking this safety feature will exude a sewer smell from trace amounts of sewage leaking into the unit. This problem is a safety hazard and should be corrected immediately.
Other Causes
A dishwasher contains many tiny crevices, creases and corners that can become filled with food particles. Stagnant water may collect at the bottom of the dishwasher if the machine is not rinsing and draining correctly. The dishwasher also may acquire an unpleasant odor if the unit is not operated frequently.
Avoid
Scrape or rinse food particles from dishes before placing in the dishwasher. Use the manufacturer's recommendation for proper hot water temperature to clean dishes and expunge unsanitary particles from the dishwasher filters. Gel dishwashing detergent must be avoided, as the syrupy properties of the gel may not rinse completely, leaving behind a gooey residue that collects grime and bacteria. When not in use, the dishwasher door should be open to allow for proper air circulation. White vinegar used as a rinse aid will kill much of the accumulated bacteria and remove odors. If stagnant water is evident, check the filter for clogs or test the drain pump for proper operation; replace if necessary.
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