For homeowners, the list of maintenance tasks and chores can feel like it never ends. Between yard work, seasonal repairs, and everyday cleaning, it seems like there’s always another job that needs your attention. With so much going on above ground, it can be easy to forget about unseen areas like your drains, but that could be a costly mistake.
Drain cleaning might not be at the top of your to-do list, but in rainy places like Vancouver, it’s a job that deserves more attention. So, how often should you be getting your drains cleaned, and what can happen if you don’t?
Why Drain Cleaning Is Essential in Vancouver
Keeping your drains clear and free from debris is important no matter where you live, but it’s especially critical in places like Vancouver where high rainfall puts extra pressure on storm and sewer systems. Leaves, dirt, and other organic matter slowly accumulating in your drains won’t create an overnight emergency, however, left unchecked, they could lead to backups or flooding during heavier rainfalls. And when that happens, your home is at risk of serious water damage.
Keeping your drains clean and clear of debris is an important preventative maintenance step that can help prevent water damage and costly emergency repairs. If you’re a DIY type, you can try using a high-pressure hose to clear visible debris from your drains. However, hiring a professional is recommended to get a more thorough clean and spot any underlying issues that might be developing out of sight.
How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?
How often you should be cleaning your drains in Vancouver depends a lot on where you live, the age of your home, and the type of drainage system you have. For example, homes in heavily treed areas are likely to need drain cleaning more often than homes located in more urban neighbourhoods.
As a general rule of thumb, most homes need professional drain cleaning in Vancouver every 1 to 2 years. However, certain types of exterior drains, particularly surface drains like catch basins, will need cleaning more frequently, especially in the fall when leaves are dropping or after a major storm.
Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Drains
So, how can you tell it’s time to have your drains cleaned? If you’ve lived in your home for more than two years and have never had your drains cleaned, that’s the first sign you’re overdue for service. Otherwise, here are a few common signs that it’s time to call in the pros.
Water Backing Up into Your Home
Any type of water coming into your home from where it’s not supposed to should be enough to set off alarm bells. For example, if you flush your toilet and water backs up through the bathtub or sink, it’s a strong signal that there’s an obstruction in your system that’s preventing wastewater from draining properly. This could be something as simple as a stubborn clog or as serious as a collapsed pipe, but the only way to tell for sure is by having a professional inspect and clean the line.
Gurgling Sounds and Foul Odours
If your toilet or sink drains are bubbling or making gurgling noises, it could be another sign that you’re on your way to a full blockage. While water is still passing through and isn’t yet backing up into your home, it means air is getting trapped in the pipes. You might try using a plunger or a safe drain cleaner to clear the drain on your own and see what happens, but in most cases, the obstruction will be further down the line and require professional equipment to fully remove.
Water Pooling
Exterior drains like catch basins and driveway drains are designed to redirect water away from your home. If you notice water pooling around these areas, it’s a strong indication that there is a clog or some other type of obstruction that’s preventing water from draining properly. Because exterior drains are critical to protecting your home’s foundation from water infiltration, pooling water is not a situation you want to ignore. If you’re noticing standing water after a rainfall, it’s definitely time to hire a service for professional drain cleaning.
If it’s been more than a year since your last cleaning, or if you’re seeing any of the signs listed above, it’s time to book a professional inspection!
