We all have a kitchen sink no matter where you live you can wind up with the problem that many people face and thats the unpleasant smell from under your sink, but wait the good news is that there may be a simple solution to this seemingly huge problem.

Lets start with introducing you to something called the “pro-vent”. A pro-vent is a plumbing vent that can be used under a cabinet, now although this venting is not commonly used in many applications it could still exist under your sink, so here is what you will need to do.

To determine if you have a pro-vent or if you are simply using the stack you will have to open the cabinet and look under the sink for a plastic vent that is around the size of a small mustard jar.

Here is a picture of an actual pro-vent under the sink

The pro-vent is usually made from black plastic and will also be near the top of the cabinet , and basically up against the bottom of the counter top. If you don’t see the pro-vent anywhere under your sink then I would suggest calling a local plumber to find the root of your smell.

If you do have a pro-vent the good news is that this can be easily replaced and is fairly inexpensive as well.

To remove the pro-vent you will need to grab a pair of channel locks or you could even try to remove it by spinning it counter clockwise. Once you have removed the pro-vent you can go down to your local home depot or plumbing supply store and pick up a new for around $5 - $10 depending on where you live.

Once you buy the vent and have returned from the store, simply replace it by using the directions I outlined above and just reverse them to install the vent.

If for some reason you still have the smell or you don’t feel comfortable repairing this plumbing problem you culd always hire a local plumber.

Temporary Fix Until you get the part or the plumber!

So if you have no money or the plumber can not make it to your house for a while and the smell is driving you up a wall you can put a plastic bag over the pro-vent for a

while to at least cut back on some of the smell.

Here is an example of what you could do.

Off course you could just go out right now and go get the parts and get it done !

Either way, I hope this plumbing lesson helps you!