In a nutshell
Keep its trap filled with water, keep the grate clear of lint and debris, and know what it connects to.
In most Toronto basements, the floor drain connects to the same main as the toilets and sinks. That is why it is the first place sewage appears when the main blocks or the City sewer surcharges. In certain older homes the foundation drainage tile empties into it as well. Knowing which kind you have helps you understand what a backup at that grate means. A camera inspection from the drain itself can map where the line runs.
Drains that sit unused for long periods dry out, especially in winter when the furnace runs and the air is dry. A trap primer is a small device that adds a bit of water to the trap whenever a nearby fixture is used. Another option is a trap seal insert that lets water flow down but closes against gas coming up. Either beats remembering to pour a jug of water every month.
Keep the area around the grate clear of storage. If water does come up, you want to see it early, not discover it soaking into cardboard boxes.
Working through it
1. Top up the trap
A jug of water every few months.
2. Clean the grate
Pull out lint and hair.
3. Protect against backflow
A backwater valve helps.
4. Consider a trap primer
It refills the trap automatically.
5. Camera the line
If it backs up.
Clues worth noticing
- Smell.
- Backups.
- Slow drainage.
- Gurgling.
Signals that it needs a licensed plumber
For persistent issues, see drain cleaning.
Calls we field, answered plainly
Why does it smell?
The trap has dried out.
Can I seal it?
Not permanently; it needs to drain.