5 Signs Your Drains Need Cleaning

We don’t often think much of the inner workings of our home’s plumbing system.  In fact, most of us are reactionary and only choose to act when something actually breaks or ceases to work.  Those who choose to wait, find that they end up spending more time and money on plumbing problems that could have been prevented had they been addressed at the earliest warning signs.  In order to help you to be better aware of those initial red flags, we have put together a list of 5 things to watch out for when determining when you should have your drains inspected and cleaned:

Slow Moving Drains

Have you noticed your sink or bathtub draining particularly slowly? Or does your washing machine or dishwasher remain full of water when the cycle is finished? One of the primary warning signs that your drains need clearing is their inability to remove waste water.  While this may just seem like a mere inconvenience, this can be one of the most obvious signs that you could have an obstruction in your pipes.

Bad Smells

One of the most noticeable and unpleasant signs that your drains might need clearing is the smell of sewage.  In the event that your drains become clogged, all the waste that is poured down the sink or that is supposed to be flushed out of your washing machine will build up and fester in the lines, causing the very unpleasant odor.  Due to Hawaii’s warmer humid weather, this can become severe and noticeable rather quickly.  If you ever smell sewage in your home, it is essential that you act quickly to avoid causing more damage to your water lines.

Fruit/Drain Flies

In addition to the unpleasant sewage smells that can result from a blocked drain, fruit and drain flies are often attracted by the scent of rotting fruit and other waste. While they may seem like just an annoyance at first, flies can quickly become a health risk when they begin discovering other food sources in your kitchen.  No one enjoys the smell of sewage or garbage, especially if its coming from your own home and attracting unwanted houseguests.  Getting to the root of the issue and resolving it quickly is the best way to safeguard your home!

Strange Noises

While other warning signs may require that you keep a close eye on things, this warning sign requires you to keep your ear on your drains.  When drains are blocked, they often emit unusual noises; indicating a blockage that probably needs to be cleared.  Noises usually stem from water being forced through small spaces or changing course due to a plugged line or blocked drain.  Identify where the noise is coming from and try to see if you are able to clear it on your own.  If not, a professional diagnosis may be necessary!

Frequent/Multiple Drain Clogs

Imagine your home draining system as an interconnected web of water supply pipes, drain pipes, vent pipes, and more. In some cases, you may notice water backing up simultaneously in various parts of your home.   For instance, you may notice gurgling in your toilets when you flush them while also noticing standing water in sinks or bathtubs.  If you notice frequent or multiple problems popping up throughout your home, chances are there may be multiple clogs or even one large blockage at the root of the problem.  In this case, it would be best to enlist the services of a professional to do a thorough inspection of your pipes.

If you suspect a clog, make sure to try and clear the clog without the use of chemical agents. These liquid drain cleaners can be bad for older pipes, and are hazardous for the environment.  If you have a serious clog and can’t easily clear it, 535 Plumbing can help! Our skilled plumbers will have your drains free and clear of any clogs. Give us a call today at (808)979-6487 to learn more or to schedule an inspection or drain cleaning.