As a homeowner, you’re faced with numerous problems that often need immediate solutions. Unfortunately, it’s easier to focus on the issues you can see rather than the invisible areas of your home, such as your plumbing system.
A blocked drain is one of the many typical problems homeowners come across, with clogged drains having a range of common causes. A blocked drainage system may seem like a mundane matter to deal with on your growing to-do list, but it can be incredibly harmful if not dealt with immediately.
Here are five harmful effects a blocked drain can have on your home and health:
Attracts Pests
Pests such as rats and insects love moist areas, and a blocked drain is the perfect breeding ground for these pesky critters. Food waste which has nowhere to go, and stagnant water provide the perfect environment for these creatures, which bring with them bacteria and disease - not a great combination for your health. However, pests aren’t the only things that love these moist areas. Areas such as these also encourage mould and mildew, which can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to sneezing, a runny nose, or a skin rash. In a worst case scenario, it could cause an asthma attack.
Promotes Growth of Bacteria
Speaking of bacteria, blocked drains are the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. This can eventually encourage disease, which is detrimental to your health. A clogged drain causes water and waste to push back up into your sink or shower drain, forcing this contaminated water to enter your home. If left untreated, it can lead to various water-borne diseases entering your home.
Bad Odours
Is there anything more inconvenient than foul-smelling odours? Slow drainage and bad smells go hand-in-hand as bits of waste slowly rot in your drains instead of being washed down your free-flowing sewage system. This situation is compounded by the fact that water cannot flow easily down your pipes, causing stagnant water to develop an unpleasant smell. While burning essential oils and candles may temporarily keep odours at bay, you will eventually need to get your pipes unblocked by a professional.
Weakens Your Home’s Structure
Blocked drains that are left untreated for a prolonged period can eventually affect your plumbing system, causing extensive damage that would require pricey repair work. Because clogged pipes result in water having nowhere to go, this stagnant water can eventually weaken the structure and foundation of your property. Additionally, blocked pipes may also cause leaks which slip through the cracks and corners of your walls and ceilings, causing extensive damage that will need to be repaired.
Slow Drains
Water moving slowly down your drains is probably the first and most obvious sign that your drain is blocked. Waiting for water to make its way down your kitchen or bathroom sink may be annoying, but it’s also a problem that contributes to many of the harmful effects previously mentioned.
Final Thoughts
Having a blocked drain may seem like a silly inconvenience, but if left untreated, it can lead to a long list of problems. We provide a range of high-quality drainage solutions to meet your needs. From shower drain and kitchen sink unblocking to CCTV drainage surveys, no matter the time or day, we are always ready to help.
Have a blocked drain and not sure who to turn to? Get in contact with one of our professionals today!