Seven Signs Your Drains Need Maintenance

December 16, 2020

Tired of frequent blockages and wastewater that just won't shift? It could be time to get your drains maintained! Here we consider seven signs that could indicate that your drains need expert attention.

1. Slow Moving Waste Water

Does your sink take forever to empty? Whilst on occasion a sink may be slow draining because of a blockage in the pipe leading to the drain, it's usually the case that there's a problem with the drainage system, and the sink water simply can't escape. If you use a plumber's plunger on the sink and the problem persists, it's likely you need professional assistance.

2. Outside Puddles

If wastewater can't pass through the drainage pipes intended for it, particularly if there is a weakness in the pipe that allows the water to escape, it can often end up as a puddle in your yard or garden. A key sign that a puddle is likely to be wastewater relates to evaporation in the sunshine. If the puddle doesn't evaporate significantly, the likelihood is it's being replenished from a drain leak.

3. Foul smells

Unpleasant smells with no obvious cause always need to be investigated. Whether the smell comes from a drain that's partially blocked, or from whatever is causing the blockage (it's not unknown for an animal to die in a drainpipe, partially or completely blocking it), investigation is needed to resolve the matter.

4. Frequent drain clogs

In the case of households that seem to be forever battling a blocked drain, it's probably the case that some sort of remedial work is required to prevent future issues. A drain inspection is often a good first step to take in order to work out what's causing the clogs. The results of the drain inspection will enable the plumber to work out how best to repair and maintain the drain to reduce the risk of future clogs.

5. Backing-up

If a clog or blockage becomes particularly large, it may stop water draining at all. In that situation, water will stay in the sink or bath and not drain at all. In those circumstances, some form of professional intervention is a must.

6. Rats!

Rats often live in sewers and drain pipes, enjoying the relative safety the drainage system offers, as well as the bountiful food supply. If your drainage pipes are in poor shape, or there is insufficient protection in place to prevent rats entering your home, the rodents will take advantage of the opportunity to crawl through drain pipes and potentially invade! If you see rats, it could be that your drains need urgent attention to prevent further unwelcome visitors.