#1 Hairballs
One of the most common culprits for clogged drains is hair. Over time, hair can accumulate in pipes and form massive clumps that are nearly impossible to remove without professional help. We have seen hairballs the size of small animals blocking sewer lines, causing backups and foul odors.
#2 Grease Buildup
Another common issue we encounter in sewer drains is grease buildup. When cooking oils and fats are poured down the drain, they solidify and stick to the walls of pipes, creating a sticky mess that attracts debris and causes blockages. The sight (and smell) of congealed grease lining a sewer pipe is enough to make even the most seasoned plumber gag.
#3 Dead Animals
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for us to find dead animals in sewer drains. Rats, mice, birds, and even larger creatures like raccoons can become trapped in pipes or fall into open manholes, leading to unpleasant discoveries during routine maintenance checks. Removing a decomposing animal from a drain is not for the faint of heart.
#4 Mold and Mildew
In dark, damp environments like sewer drains, mold and mildew thrive. The sight of fuzzy green or black growths covering the walls of a pipe is enough to make anyone squirm. Not only is mold unsightly and smelly, but it can also pose health risks for anyone exposed to it.
#5 Fecal Matter
Of course, no list of gross things found in sewer drains would be complete without mentioning fecal matter. Whether it’s human waste from toilets or animal droppings from rodents or pests, dealing with excrement is an unpleasant but necessary part of our job as plumbers.
#6 Used Hygiene Products
Flushing items like tampons, pads, wipes, and condoms down the toilet can lead to major clogs in sewer lines. These non-biodegradable items can get stuck in pipes or wrap around other debris, causing backups that require professional intervention to clear out.
#7 Food Waste
Last but certainly not least on our list of gross things found in sewer drains is food waste. Leftover scraps that are washed down kitchen sinks can accumulate over time and create foul-smelling blockages that attract pests like cockroaches and rats.
As plumbers, we have seen some truly revolting sights lurking in sewer drains. From hairballs the size of small animals to dead rodents trapped in pipes, there is no shortage of gross encounters on the job. While these sights may be stomach-churning at times, they serve as a reminder of the importance of proper drain maintenance and disposal practices to prevent such horrors from occurring in the first place.
