The short answer
Check for a Gas Leak First
Natural gas companies add a sulfur-like odorant so you can smell leaks. If the smell is strong near your stove, oven, or gas lines, treat it as an emergency. Leave the kitchen, do not touch any electrical switches, and open windows if you can do so safely.
Call your gas utility from outside the house. They have the tools to find and stop the leak. Do not try to fix a gas line yourself. If you live in Rogers, keep your shutoff valve location written down, but only turn it off if you know it is safe to do so.
Bullets for what to do if you suspect gas:
- Leave the home immediately
- Do not use light switches or phones
- Call the gas utility from outside
- Do not relight pilot lights yourself
- Wait for the pros to check the lines
Look at Your Sink Drain
A smell from the drain is common when food waste sits in the P-trap or on the sides of the pipe. Over time, that buildup can release a sulfur-like odor, especially in warm weather. Run cold water for a few seconds after each meal to help flush it.
If the smell lingers, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by hot water. For tougher buildup, a plumber can clean or replace the drain pipes. The pros can also check for hidden leaks behind the sink that might be causing stagnant water.
Bullets for drain troubleshooting:
- Run water after each use
- Use baking soda and hot water
- Check for standing water under the sink
- Have a plumber snake the drain if needed
- Replace old rubber gaskets if they smell
Inspect the Water Heater
If your water heater is near the kitchen, a rotten egg smell can come from the anode rod reacting with sulfur in the water. This is not a gas leak, but it is unpleasant. The rod is a sacrificial part that can be replaced by a plumber.
Another cause is bacteria growing inside the tank, which produces hydrogen sulfide gas. Flushing the water heater can help. If the smell persists, a plumber can inspect the tank and replace the anode rod. Do not ignore it, as it can also indicate a slow leak.
If you notice water pooling near the heater, you might have a leak. The pros can handle the cleanup and drying if that happens, but the repair is usually a plumber's job.
When to Call the Pros
If you have ruled out gas and a simple drain flush does not help, the smell may come from a hidden water issue. The pros can inspect your kitchen for water damage, map moisture levels, and dry out affected areas. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
If the smell is from a sewer line backup or a flood, the pros can handle the extraction and cleanup. For gas, always call your utility first, not a restoration service. The cost to hire the pros often ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, but that depends on the size of the area and how long the water has been present.
The cost to hire the pros typically depends on the extent of the water damage and the equipment needed. It often ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, but that depends on the size of the area and how long the water has been present.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
Is a rotten egg smell always a gas leak?
No, it can also come from a drain, water heater anode, or stagnant water from a leak. You can test by smelling near each source separately. If you are unsure, call your gas utility to rule out the dangerous case first.
Can I fix the drain smell myself?
Yes, for minor buildup, try baking soda and hot water. If the smell persists after a few tries, you may have a clogged vent pipe or a broken P-trap. A plumber can clean or replace the pipes, which is a straightforward repair.
What should I do if the smell is from water damage?
Dry the area as much as you can, and look for the source of the water. If you cannot find it, the pros can use leak detection to locate it. They can also dry out walls and floors to prevent mold, but the repair of the pipe is usually a plumber's job.