Are There Animals in Your Pipelines?
>From spring to fall, homeowners may see critters scurrying about from their holes in the yard. While these are certainly nuisances to those who have gardens or pets, everyone should be aware that some animals can actually get into your pipelines and cause havoc in these systems. What types of creatures can get into your pipes and how can you prevent this from happening to you? Let's take a deeper look to find out if there may be animals in your pipeline.
The signs will be obvious
When an animal enters the plumbing system, it may be apparent to homeowners from the get-go. Telltale signs include scratching and other odd noises in your pipes. If you hear these types of sounds, it's probably time to call a plumber to verify if the issue is critter-related or simply an old pipe in need of repair.
Of course, it's possible that you may miss the unusual noises, only to find an animal in the place you least expect or want: the toilet. There have been several instances where animals enter a home's plumbing vents and end up surprising someone when they go to use the facilities. Roto-Rooter has found that frogs, possums, squirrels, rats and even snakes may find their way into your plumbing because they smell food. However, they get lost in the pipelines and end up coming out of your toilet instead of the kitchen, where the food odors originated.
How to keep the critters out
Obviously seeing a snake or any of the other mentioned animals coming out of the toilet is the stuff that nightmares are made of. Therefore, it's in your best interest to protect your home and yourself from these creatures. Many animals carry rabies and other diseases and can cause pure chaos if they are released to the interior of the house. Animals can also gnaw and scratch at your pipeline, causing it to corrode and decay at a faster rate than normal.
Fortunately, there are easy and humane ways to keep those animals out of the home without flushing them back down the drain. First seal up any exterior gaps and putting food in airtight containers. Since animals are naturally drawn to food, this measure will help deter them from entering in the first place. However, this isn't going to keep all manner of animals from slithering into the pipeline.
With the help of a professional, you'll need to find the end of your pipe. Try covering this exit/entry point with wire mesh to keep animals out without compromising drainage processes. It will be important to identify any other pipe outlets to ensure that these locations are addressed as well.
Animals in the drain have long been considered myths, but a variety of experiences show that these issues are all too real for homeowners. It's important to consider what small animals are in your area and how to guard your pipelines against them. Call the plumbing experts at Roto-Rooter today to help you handle your pest in the pipeline problem and any other plumbing needs!