Most people associate pests with dry, humid weather but the moist conditions created by a plumbing leak also provide a haven for a wide range of pests. Food waste and other organic matter provide a meal for these pests while the puddle offers the ideal ground for laying eggs. Even more interesting is the fact that empty plumbing pipes can offer breeding sites for pests. Identifying where the leak is coming from is the best way to end such pest issues.
Pests That Love Water and Moisture
Plumbing leaks promote most of the cockroach infestations. Research has shown that these pests can go for weeks without eating, but they need water every few days to survive. It is essential to note that these pests mostly live in multitude, so the few you see occasionally are probably not an accurate representation.
A leak may also attract centipedes. It may be harmless, but this 15-legged bug is not a good sight for a home. Also likely to make the damp area their home are termites, silverfish, rats, and mice. Camel crickets, carpenter ants, and phorid flies may also follow suit.
A broken water heater or one in a particularly dark, secluded area is usually the main culprit when it comes to these types of plumbing leaks, so be sure to check yours regularly.
Discovering Pest Infestation
It will not be easy to tell the magnitude of your pest infestation unless you know what signs to look out for. Most pests like to operate at night, but you may still spot them during the day. Check for dead bodies of pests on window sills, in the basement, and any crawlspace you have.
When you find some parts of surrounding furniture with funny bite marks, you can be sure there are rats or mice around. They gnaw on anything including plastic, plywood, electric wiring, and insulation.
If your natural fabric has unexplained irregular holes that look like leaves, look no further. The plumbing leak may have invited garment moths and carpet beetles. Before your carpets, rugs, floor mats, and upholstery become useless, you had better deal with the potential leak.
Locating the Leak Source
Plumbing leaks can happen anywhere along the system, but in most cases, they are in places you can easily spot. The bad news is that pests are attracted to the concealed leaks too. Regular inspection of your plumbing system can keep the issue under control. It is common for pests to stay underneath freezers, water heaters, fridges and any other appliance that has a leak below. These tiny animals can survive on a few drops a day, so even the minutest of leaks could favor them. Other areas to check are faucets and sinks.
Eliminating the Problem
One of the best ways to keep on top of things is to keep the home as dry as you can. Any stagnant water is attractive to pests. Inspect faucets and other appliances regularly, and fix any leaks well and promptly. To prevent leaks associated with drain clogs, run vinegar down the drain after use and apply an enzyme cleaner when necessary.
Pest invasions in residential and commercial settings can occur because of several triggers. However, the close relationship between water and their habitats can make identification and removal of the problem more straightforward. Proper appliance repair and adequate sanitation may be all you need to get rid of the problem permanently.
