Unwanted Guests: The Rat Invasion in Your Drains and How to Exterminate Them

When it comes to your drains, rats are the last thing you want to see. But unfortunately, rats love the dark, damp environment of your drains and sewers, and over time, can become a serious problem. If left unchecked, a rat infestation can lead to disease and destruction of property, and can even cause damage to your home.In this blog, we will cover the basics of rats, their behaviour and how they can enter your drains. We also discuss the health risks posed by rat infestations, as well as the most effective methods for eliminating them. Finally, we will provide advice on how to prevent future rat infestations and keep your drains free from these unwanted guests.?IntroductionThe presence of rats in your drains is a common problem. Although rats may seem harmless, they can cause a lot of damage if they are allowed to take over. Rats carry diseases, contaminate food and water, and can even damage the structure of your house. It is important to take action and eliminate rats in your drains as soon as you become aware of them.?Understanding Rats and Their HabitatRats are small, agile rodents, typically measuring between 8 and 12 inches in length. They have a thick, scaly tail, small, pointed ears, and beady eyes. Rats are usually brown or black in colour, and can be identified by their characteristic musky odour.Rats are primarily nocturnal creatures and typically become active at night. They search for food and hide in dark, enclosed spaces during the day. Rats are adept climbers, and can easily access drain pipes, sewers and other dark, damp areas.?How Rats Access DrainsRats typically enter drains through entry points such as cracks, holes, and open pipes. Rats can also access your drains through broken fixtures, such as toilets, sinks and showers. The size of the openings required for rats to access your drains varies, but they usually need to be at least a quarter of an inch in diameter.It is important to note that rats are attracted to food sources, and will try to find any food that is left out or easily accessible. If you have open garbage bins or pet food outside, this can provide a great food source for rats, and could be the reason why they are entering your drains.?Health Risks Posed by Rat Infestation in DrainsHaving rats in your drains can be extremely hazardous to your health. Rats are known to spread diseases such as salmonella, leptospirosis, and hantavirus, all of which can cause serious illness in humans. Rats can also introduce parasites such as fleas and ticks, which can carry the plague.Rats can also pose a risk to your home. They can chew through walls, electrical wiring, and plumbing, leading to structural damage and potentially expensive repairs.?Methods of Preventing Rat Infestation in DrainsThere are a few methods you can use to prevent rat infestation in your drains. One of the essential steps is to get rid of all potential sources of food. Keep food stored in sealed containers, and keep outdoor garbage bins and pet food securely covered.It is also important to seal any openings in your drains. Use a strong wire mesh or sealant to fill any cracks or holes in your drains, and make sure fixtures such as toilets, sinks and showers are in good condition and cannot easily be accessed by rats. If you are getting recurring rat problems, it?s time to call a professional. Our engineers will deploy rat blockers to prevent the rats from entering your pipes.Finally, it is important to keep your drains clean. Debris such as paper, food, and dirt can attract rats, so it is important to regularly remove any build up. At Drain 247, we also carry out drain jetting services to help you keep your pipes free flowing and free from any blockages.?Signs of Rat Infestation in DrainsThere are a few signs that you can look for to identify a rat infestation in your drains. These include:Strange noises coming from your drainsDroppings in your drainsUnpleasant odours coming from your drainsDamage to fixtures, such as toilets and sinksGnaw marks on walls, pipes, and other surfacesIf you suspect that you have a rat infestation in your drains, it is important to take action immediately.?Traps and Baits for Eliminating Rats in DrainsTraps and baits are the most effective way of eliminating rats in drains. The most commonly used traps are snap traps, which are designed to quickly and humanely kill the rat. These traps should be placed near suspected entry points and in areas where rats have been seen or heard.Baits can also be used to lure rats into traps. Peanut butter and cheese are both popular bait choices, as rats are attracted to these foods. When using baits, it is important to use a non-toxic product, and to check traps regularly to ensure that the bait has been eaten.?Professional Pest Control Services for Rat EliminationIf you suspect that you have a rat infestation in your drains, it is important to contact a professional pest control service. Professional pest control services are experienced in removing rats from homes and businesses, and can provide the most effective solution to your problem.Experienced pest exterminators will deploy a range of techniques to get rid of rodents, such as rats by using baits, rat traps, and carrying out a camera inspection of the sewer pipes. Camera inspection is a useful tool which can identify the location of rats and their entry points, allowing the pest control team to quickly and effectively eradicate them.?Prevention of Future Rat Infestations in DrainsOnce you have eliminated the rats in your drains, it is important to take steps to prevent future infestations. Regular maintenance of drains and sewage systems is essential, as blockages and damage can provide entry points for rats. That?s why it?s important to have periodic camera inspections so that you can check the conditions of your drains. If any problems are detected, drain repairs can be carried out to prevent any further problems.It is also important to keep an eye out for potential food sources. Be sure to keep outdoor garbage bins covered, store pet food properly, and avoid leaving food out in the open. Keeping your drains clean can also help prevent future infestations.?ConclusionRats are unwelcome guests in any home or business, and can be a serious health and safety risk if left unchecked. To prevent and eliminate rat infestations in drains, it is important to understand their behaviour, entry points, and potential health risks. By using traps, baits, and professional pest control services, it is possible to effectively eliminate rats in your drains and prevent future infestations. Do You Have A Rat Problem?If you suspect you have rats in your drains and would like a professional to diagnose the problem, Drain 247 are here to help. Our experts have years of experience in identifying and resolving rat infestations quickly and effectively. Get a quote today. Call 0800 612 8038

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