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Drain Clogs Aren't Just a Nuisance --They're a Haven for Critters!

Are you having a problem with clogged drains in your Arizona home? It's a nuisance, but it might be more than just an inconvenience--it could be a haven for critters! From frogs to cockroaches, there are a variety of critters that can be attracted to the wet environment created by clogged drains. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the most common critters found in Arizona drain clogs and how to prevent them from taking up residence in your home.

 

What type of critters are attracted to drain clogs?

Drain clogs themselves are huge problems for homeowners. But did you know your dirty drains may be attracting other critters into your home? Here are a few critters to be on the lookout for that may indicate you have a drain issue on your hands. 

 

  • Cockroaches
  • Drain Flies
  • Mice
  • Spiders
  • Scorpions 

 

These critters are all attracted to clogged drains due to the moist environment, food sources, and other potential hiding places. Cockroaches, drain flies, and mice are all attracted to food waste in drain clogs and may even lay eggs or carry other germs that can cause health issues. Spiders and scorpions are attracted to the moisture and darkness of drain clogs and can cause more serious health issues if you are bitten. To protect your home from these critters, it's important to make sure your drains are regularly maintained and clear of clogs.

 

How do animals get into drains?

There are many reasons a critter can be attracted to your drains but clogs and lingering food particles are the primary reasons. The first group of critters to look out for are insects. Drain flies, drain moths, and drain beetles all love to hang out in drains, which are the perfect place for them to lay their eggs. The larvae feed on the grime and organic material that tends to accumulate in drains, making them a delicious food source for these insects. These pests can often be identified by their dark color and distinctive wings. Rodents are also attracted to drains. They’re small enough to easily fit through pipes, and they’ll love munching on whatever scraps they find in there. Rodents can cause serious damage if left unchecked. They can chew through plastic pipes and spread disease through their droppings. Finally, there are larger critters like frogs, snakes, and lizards that may be drawn to a clogged drain. While these animals may not cause any immediate damage, they can become stuck in the pipe if it becomes blocked. This can lead to the pipe being damaged or blocked completely. It is extremely important to have your drains regularly cleaned to ensure your drains do not attract any unwanted guests!

 

How can you prevent animals from taking up residence in your drains?

When it comes to preventing critters from taking up residence in your drains, the most important thing you can do is keep your drains clear. Drain clogs can be caused by a variety of different things, from food scraps and soap buildup to tree roots and dirt. In Arizona, drain clogs are particularly vulnerable to being taken over by critters like rats and roaches. The best way to keep your drains clear is to avoid pouring grease or oil down your sink, as this will build up and create a clog. Also, make sure to clear out any food particles or debris that can get stuck in the pipes. Finally, run hot water down your drains regularly to flush out any buildup.

 

If you already have a clog, it may be time to call in a professional like our Wolfgangs team. A licensed plumber will be able to use specialized tools and techniques to break up the clog and prevent critters from making it their home. They will also be able to detect any potential signs of trouble before they become a bigger problem.