Post By Admin
July 9, 2024Wondering what the big deal is with a blocked stormwater drain?
Well, aside from potentially flooding and damage to your property, it can also lead to some pretty nasty smells. Think of a smelly bathroom drain but on a much larger scale.
It’s no fun at all, right?
Today, your friendly expert Melbourne plumbers will dive into everything you need about stormwater drain cleaning.
Whether you’re dealing with any current issues related to blocked drains or want to be prepared, stick around for some good stormwater management advice!
How to Unclog a Storm Water Drain?
Knowing how to unblock stormwater drain can save you time and money, and it’s not as daunting as it may seem.
With the right tools and patience, you can effectively clear the blockage and restore proper drainage.
If you’re wondering how to prevent an overflowing drain, we’ll cover that in a later section. Hints: Regular maintenance, like clearing leaves and debris from your yard and gutters, can make a big difference!
Note that the expected time to unblock a stormwater drain takes as long as unblocking a shower drain, which is around 1-3 hours, depending on the severity and your skill in handling such a DIY task.
Let’s walk through the steps to get your drain flowing freely again!
What to Prepare: Equipment
- Safety goggles and gloves
- Any unused clothes
- Drain snake or auger (for a deeper blockage)
- Trash bags
- Screwdriver or pry bar for lifting the cover
- Garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle
- A bucket and a flashlight
How to Do It
- Lift the drain cover. Carefully lift the cover using a screwdriver or pry bar, then put it somewhere safe.
- Inspect and clear surface debris. Put on your gloves and remove any visible debris at the top of the drain. Switch on your flashlight for a clearer inspection.
- Locate the blockage. Insert the drain snake or auger into the drain and slowly push it down until you feel resistance, which is most likely the blockage.
- Break up the blockage. Start twisting and pushing the drain snake or auger to break up the clog. Wait a bit until you feel like there’s less resistance.
- Flush the drain. Grab the high-pressure nozzle to help push any remaining debris through the system. If the water does not drain properly, use the drain snake or auger again until the water flows smoothly. Then, as the final step, clean up the area around the drain and replace the cover securely.
Also Read: Why Are My Drains Gurgling? Causes + The Fixes
Common Causes of Blocked Stormwater Drain
So, what causes these drains to get blocked?
One of the main triggers can be nearby trees and shrubs extending their roots into stormwater pipes, causing cracks and blockages.
Apart from tree roots, the following are other common factors behind a blocked stormwater pipe:
- Foreign Objects. Items like plastic bags, bottles, and debris from construction sites can enter stormwater drains and cause blockages.
- Sediments. Gradually, all the sediment buildup that settles in will reduce the pipe’s diameter and capacity to carry water.
- Poor Maintenance. Neglecting regular cleaning and maintenance of stormwater drains allows debris and sediment to accumulate and compromise your drainage system.
All of the above-mentioned causes require preventive measures, including regular maintenance. This will protect you from stormwater drain issues that may lead to costly repairs.
How Frequently Do You Have to Clear Storm Water Drain?
Now, you may ask yourself how often clearing blocked stormwater drains is required.
Knowing the best time to clean the stormwater drains is another key to keeping the system functional.
Location, weather patterns, and surrounding vegetation can influence how often drains need to be cleared.
The cleaning process helps identify and remove any potential blockages before they become a problem.
Plus, incorporate routine maintenance into your ‘home care’ schedule. Regularly, you can remove any visible debris from drain openings and monitor the flow of water to ensure it remains unobstructed
Keep your drains flowing smoothly by following the recommended frequency for stormwater drain cleaning below:
- Regular Inspection. Schedule an inspection and cleaning of your stormwater drains before the rainy season or after heavy storms.
- After Extreme Weather Events. Following severe weather events such as storms or hurricanes, check your stormwater drains for any signs of blockages or damage. Perform immediate cleaning and repairs to prevent further issues during subsequent rainfalls.
- Professional Services. Consider hiring professional plumbers or stormwater drain cleaners for thorough cleaning and inspection. They have the tools and expertise to effectively clear blockages and assess the overall condition of your drainage system.
Also read: How Much Does a CCTV Drain Inspection Cost?
How to Prevent a Blocked Storm Water Drain
You may be familiar with the saying, ‘It is better to be safe than sorry.’
Well, it can surely also apply to dealing with a blocked stormwater drain! That’s why staying on top of things is super important before they get out of hand.
For starters, be mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid washing dirt, paint, or other materials that could accumulate and cause blockages.
Here are some other simple prevention steps you can take:
- Clear leaves, debris, and trash from drain covers and openings.
- Use mesh screens or guards to catch debris before it enters the drain.
- Keep plants and trees near drains trimmed to prevent roots from entering pipes.
- Avoid pouring grease, oil, or large items down drains.
- Schedule regular inspections to catch potential issues early.
These preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of a blocked stormwater drain, minimize potential damage from flooding, and maintain an efficient drainage system.
Whose Responsibility Is It for Blocked Storm Drains?
Blocked storm drains can be the homeowner’s or local authority’s responsibility, depending on the location and property ownership. Understanding who is accountable for cleaning stormwater drains can prevent any potential disputes.
Typically, homeowners are responsible for maintaining and cleaning their property’s stormwater drains.
Meanwhile, your area’s local authorities are responsible for maintaining public storm drains and clearing blockages in communal areas.
We hope you find this guide on how to unblock stormwater drains to be helpful!
Need assistance with clearing blocked stormwater drains?
Please do not hesitate to call our expert team at Neighbourhood Plumbing Melbourne.
Book our service today, and we will help you keep your drain in top condition, especially before stormy seasons!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
