Before leaving on vacation, a few minutes are enough to avoid an unpleasant surprise upon return. This simple gesture, still little known, helps limit the rise of odors in the pipes during your absence.
Before going on vacation, you probably think about emptying the refrigerator, turning off the water or unplugging certain electrical appliances. However, another detail often goes unnoticed. After several days of absence, some people come home and discover an unpleasant smell that seems to come from the kitchen, bathroom or toilet. However, this problem is not inevitable: a very simple gesture, which only takes a few minutes before closing the door, can limit this inconvenience and make the return trip much more pleasant.
These bad odors are generally not due to a plumbing problem. They appear especially when certain equipment is no longer used for a certain period of time. Siphons, present under sinks, washbasins, showers or bathtubs, permanently retain a little water. This water forms a barrier which prevents odors from the pipes from coming up into the home. But in the event of prolonged absence, particularly in summer when the heat accelerates evaporation, this reserve can decrease. Protection is then no longer ensured and odors can travel up to the rooms of the house.
The gesture consists of pouring a very thin layer of vegetable oil into the siphons before leaving on vacation. One or two tablespoons are enough. The oil, lighter than water, remains on the surface and forms a film which greatly slows down evaporation. The water in the siphon is thus kept longer and continues to play its role as a barrier against odors. This tip is especially useful if you are going away for several weeks or if certain equipment remains unused.
For this method to be effective, start by running a little water into each drain concerned in order to properly fill the siphon. Then pour in a small amount of vegetable oil, without excess as a thin film is enough. On the other hand, it is better to avoid using this tip as a daily habit. Oil should not be poured in large quantities down the drains, as grease can eventually build up over time. Reserved for departures on vacation, this precaution has no consequences if it remains punctual.
In just a few minutes, this little reflex reduces the risk of finding your home invaded by persistent odors as soon as the door is opened. By adopting it before a long absence, you simply put all the chances on your side so that returning from vacation will be synonymous with good memories, and not a chore of cleaning.
