Cold air coming through drain.

[198x]

In my flat I have a utility room that used to be a back balcony. I've changed it over and placed a window so now it's a room but there's a drain in the corner.

The only problem with this is that it is continually letting in cold air and so is making the room and part of the flat extremely cold. I am currently using this drain as a waste water outlet for the washing machine.

Is there anything I can place over the top that will stop the cold air but not let the room get flooded should the washing machine break?

[Prudentia]

you need to fit a trap, ie a u-bend that makes a water seal otherwise you could be in serious danger. A fiver on a bit of plastic pipe could save you life.

[woofgang]

sorry, being a bit thick here and I am sure that you are right but what exactly is the danger you are talking about?

[buildersmate]

The 'danger', if indeed it exists, is of noxious gases arising from the sewer system. It is normally more of a danger of a pong than a physical danger to life.
The fact you have significant airflow coming in suggests your sewer pipes are well-vented to the outside, possible via a vertical vent pipe emerging well above the height of any windows in the property. Such venting helps to remove noxious gases.
The solution to the problem is exactly as the first reply recommends.

[198x]

Hi, I think I've given the wrong kind of message across.

I don't think I am in any danger from the drain as it's like a normal drainpipe with guttering etc that collects rainwater from the roof. At the moment it is running down the side of the flat and each of the balconys has a drain for if any water gets in.

The drain then exits the water into a concrete well and runs down past the flat into the main drainage.

Would a u-bend still correct this problem as the plumber didn't mention any kind of indication that I might be in danger.

[The Builder]

...........oo-er..........rainwater............probably goes to a soakaway in the garden....NOT the main sewer............I'm afraid people do discharge washing machines into these............but I couldn't possibly comment............ :o)

[woofgang]

our rainwater guttering goes into our household drainage, not a soakaway. (well it doesn't now as we have a diverter and a waterbutt :)