Biofilm 101

Biofilm is a common but often misunderstood issue that affects the drains in your home.

What Is Biofilm?

Biofilm is a bacterial mat that consists of bacteria, organic material, and bacterial byproducts. It often has a pinkish color, but not always. It collects in drains, particularly in kitchen and bathroom drains where there is organic matter like hairballs and food debris to feed the bacteria.

Does Biofilm Pose a Health Hazard?

There is no immediate threat from biofilm in the drains unless it comes in contact with food or drink. In this case, it has been linked to gastrointestinal complaints and illnesses. Biofilm is more likely to pose a health hazard if it forms on the walls of a dishwasher or in the inlet lines for an ice maker since it is more likely to be consumed.

Will Biofilm Damage Drains?

The main concern with biofilm in the drains is a drain blockage. Biofilm can form large mats, which can lead to a slow drain or even a complete blockage. One issue is that the formation of a small biofilm mat means that it will grow. Not only are the bacteria reproducing, but the mat itself also tends to be sticky so it will attract and trap more debris from food, hair, or soap scum. This can lead to blockages as well as increased pressure in the pipes, and the pressure can cause leaks at pipe joints. Blockages can lead to overflowing sinks and nasty backups in your kitchen or bathroom.

Can Biofilm Be Prevented?

Keeping your drains and sinks clean is the first step toward preventing biofilm. In the kitchen, grease is often what leads to biofilm buildup because it traps organic debris and bacteria in the drain. Soap scum does a similar thing in bathroom drains. Pouring hot or boiling water down the drains at least once a week flushes out grease and soap scum, which will help reduce the chances of biofilm growth. Hair traps in bathroom drains should also be cleaned regularly to help minimize bacterial mats.

How Can One Remove Biofilm?

If biofilm growth is out of control or your drains are already clogging, then professional help is necessary. Hydro jetting is an excellent drain cleaning method for full biofilm removal. A high-pressure jet of water is sent down the drain, washing away all film, debris, and bacteria in its way. In some cases, your cleaning service may also apply a biocide to the drains to ensure no bacteria remains to form a new biofilm.

Contact a drain cleaning service for more assistance with your biofilm issues.

Share