Blocked Stormwater Drains: Causes, Consequences and Solutions
Blocked Stormwater Drains Need to be Fixed!
As a homeowner you may have experienced flooding in your yard or even in the roof when storm water drains are blocked.
Remember that your guttering and down pipes are all part of the your homes storm water drainage.
It’s a common occurrence that can lead to significant damage to your property, the environment, and public health.
Definition and Purpose
Stormwater drains are designed to carry rainwater from our homes and properties. These drains are separate from the main sewer drain, and their purpose is solely to transport rainwater away from our homes and properties.
Some properties will have additional stormwater drainage or stormwater pits as well
It’s important to know that they are only used for rainwater and not as a dumping ground for any other rubbish or debris.
When used correctly, they can prevent flooding during heavy rains and even protect our waterways, public health, and marine life.
When stormwater drains become blocked, they can cause serious consequences. These blockages are typically caused by debris, litter, and rubbish, and can cause flooding and stagnant water pooling.
Regular maintenance that includes cleaning of your gutters and drainage points are important, as well as removing any physical obstructions or blockages on top of stormwater drains.
Making sure that leaf and organic matter does not go into your stormwater drains and grates. Do not rake or sweep dirt and leaves into the drains. Put this is into your green waste bins or compost heap.
Installing leaf diverters in your downpipes will also stop excess leaf matter building ip in your storm water drains
To prevent these blockages you can engage licensed plumbers or blocked drain specialists to inspect and clear blocked stormwater drains.
Causes and Consequences
During heavy rainfall or storms, debris and litter can accumulate in the drainage system, leading to issues that can impact public health and the environment.
The accumulation of debris and litter can block the stormwater drain, causing it to overflow and flood nearby areas.
Stormwater drain blockages can be caused by various factors such as dirt, leaves, garden debris, sludge build-up, sediment accumulation, and even tree roots blocking the drains.
Lack of maintenance will also contribute to the problem.
Excess storm water can lead to property damage, road closures, and even threaten the safety of people and animals in the vicinity.
When stormwater overflows due to a blocked drain, it carries pollutants and contaminants into nearby waterways, creeks, and rivers, causing harm to the environment and wildlife.
This can lead to water pollution, which can have severe consequences for public health.
What can Happen if you Ignore Blocked Storm Water Drains at your Home
Blocked stormwater drains can have a significant impact on your house and yard, especially if you are a swimming pool owner who needs to do regular back washing of the swimming pool. Here’s how blocked storm water drains can affect your yard:
- Soil Erosion: If water from the backwashing or heavy rainfall cannot flow through the blocked drains, it may start to accumulate in certain areas of your yard. This can lead to soil erosion as the excess water washes away the topsoil, leaving behind unsightly and uneven patches in your yard.
- Water Damage: The stagnant water caused by blocked stormwater drains can seep into your yard, saturating the soil. Over time, this can lead to water damage to structures, such as your pool deck, patio, or even the foundation of your home. It can also create ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth.
- Mosquito Infestation: Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. If your yard has standing water due to blocked drains, it can attract these pests, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases and making your outdoor space less enjoyable.
- Unhealthy Environment: Blocked stormwater drains can result in poor drainage, leading to water stagnation. Stagnant water promotes the growth of algae, fungi, and bacteria, creating an unsightly and unhealthy environment in your yard. It can also create unpleasant odors and become a breeding ground for other pests and insects.
If you notice water is not dispersing as quickly as it should or it is bubbling back out of your storm water drains in your yard, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re here to help!
Do’s and Don’ts of Stormwater Blockages
When dealing with a blocked stormwater drain, it’s important to know what you should and shouldn’t do. Here are some helpful tips:
Must do:
- Regularly clear your yard of leaves and garden debris to prevent blockages.
- If you notice bad smells or if the drain has been used to dispose of oil or chemicals, it’s best to call a professional plumber instead of attempting a DIY fix.
- Check and clear the grates and drains around your property on dry days to maintain proper drainage.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing and gloves when clearing debris to keep yourself safe.
Mustn’t do:
- Avoid trying to unblock a drain during a storm or heavy rain. Wait for better weather conditions.
- Refrain from using chemicals to clear storm drains as they can be harmful to the environment as storm water goes into our waterways.
- Remember, storm drains are meant for stormwater only. Do not dispose of food waste, garbage, paint, oil, or sewage in a storm drain.
- If you spot a blockage that’s out of reach or difficult to clean on your own, don’t hesitate to call your plumber for professional assistance.
Overall, it’s crucial to take a proactive approach in preventing stormwater drain blockages by regularly maintaining and cleaning your drains.
However, if you do encounter a blockage, rely on the expertise of The Blocked Drain Guys. We’ll handle the situation promptly, ensuring the smooth flow of stormwater and preventing further damage to your drainage system.
Clearing Blocked Stormwater Drains
Our friendly team at The Blocked Drain Guys is equipped to handle different types of blockages. We utilise high-pressure water jetters to break up the clog and disburse the debris. Our high-pressure water jetting technique can effectively clear even stubborn bloackages.
However, clearing the blockage is just the first step.
We can go the extra mile by using a specially designed CCTV drain inspection camera to conduct a comprehensive inspection of your stormwater drains.
This allows our drainage experts to identify trouble areas and remove potential obstructions like tree roots, preventing future problems.
Our priority is to address blocked stormwater drains as soon as possible because we understand the potential risks they pose. Don’t delay, give us a call and we’ll be there promptly to resolve the issue.
Preventing Clogged Stormwater Drainage Systems
By taking proactive measures to prevent a blocked stormwater drain, such as regular maintenance and cleaning, we can protect our community and environment from the negative impacts of this issue.
By keeping our gutters and drainage points free of debris and litter, we can ensure that our homes and communities stay safe and dry during heavy rainstorms. Regular maintenance and cleaning of these areas are important to prevent any build-up of sediment and blockages. We can also install leaf guards on our gutters or downpipes to prevent leaves and twigs from entering the stormwater system.
Routine maintenance and clearing of stormwater drains are important for residential homes, strata buildings, and commercial properties to prevent any emergency plumbing situations. By taking preventative measures, we can protect our homes, communities, and the environment from the consequences of blocked stormwater drains.
At The Blocked Drain Guys, we believe in maintaining your stormwater drains throughout the year to prevent clogs.
Our best advice is to carry out routine drain cleaning, which can save you a lot of work and costly repairs down the line.
Get in touch with us today if you have blocked drains.
