Post By Admin
December 30, 2024
A heavy rain finally stopped and the next thing you know is there’s water pooling in your backyard — annoying, right? Here is where you need a backyard stormwater pit.
We’ll show you how a stormwater pit is such a game-changer and how to steer clear of typical problems, like having to call a blocked drain service when things go wrong.
Are you ready to save your property from water damage by learning how to install a stormwater pit? Now is the time to get down to business and prepare your backyard for whatever the weather brings!
What is a Stormwater Pit?
A stormwater pit is a receptacle that collects excess rainwater from your land and channels it into existing drainage systems.
During storms, it prevents water from pooling in your yard and seeping into your foundation. Connected to a network of stormwater drains, it channels water away efficiently.
You might be wondering why it should be installed in your backyard? For one, it’s the area most vulnerable to water pooling, especially if your garden has low-lying spots or compacted soil.
So, a stormwater pit installation is a great way to save money on repairs to your home’s structure, preserve the use of your outdoor spaces, and shield your landscaping from water damage.
But what is the mechanism of a stormwater pit? After a period of heavy rain, the water in the pit is sent to the main drainage system by the connected pipes. It is designed to ensure your home remains dry and undamaged without any water pooling.
How to Install a Backyard Stormwater Pit
So, you’re ready to tackle the project of installing a backyard stormwater pit — great decision! Let’s lay some foundational work before we jump into the steps.
To begin, there is more to establishing a drainage pit than simply excavating a hole. It requires meticulous preparation, attention to detail, and checking that all components link to your current drainage system.
Hopefully, the following instructions will help ease the process of your residential stormwater pit installation:
1. Choose a Spot
Your stormwater pit’s placement determines how efficient your system is as a whole. Choose a low point in your backyard where water naturally accumulates.
If you’re unsure, observe your yard during a heavy rainstorm or after a watering session to see where water pools.
Remember to consider factors like accessibility for maintenance, proximity to your existing stormwater drain system, and avoid areas with a lot of underground utilities.
Once you’ve identified the right spot, it’s time to prep the area and move to the next step!
2. Dig the Pit
Now comes the fun part — digging! You’ll want the hole to be deep and wide enough to fit the stormwater pit and provide a stable base for the installation.
Typically, the pit should be at least 600mm deep, but this can vary depending on your pit’s size and design.
3. Put the Stormwater Pit in Place
In order to keep the connected pipes in proper alignment, make sure the hole is level after you place the pit into it.
Use sand or gravel to seal the pit’s perimeter. The hole is stabilised and drainage is improved with the help of these materials.
4. Connect to the Drainage System
If you aren’t confident working with pipe fittings, it is best to hire a professional to assist you with this phase.
For water to flow freely and without leaks, it is essential that the connections be properly sealed.
Key Benefits of Backyard Stormwater Pits
Aside from the obvious benefit of a dry backyard, there are a number of other significant benefits to installing this system on your home.
1. Protects Your Home from Water Damage
Unregulated water flow can be a silent house destroyer that can ruin your lawn and garden beds. Damage to your home’s structure, caused by water seeping into the foundation, can be expensive and time-consuming to repair.
One way to prevent water damage from rain is to install a residential stormwater pit. This preventative measure lessens the likelihood of flooding and water pooling!
2. Keeps Your Plumbing System Safe
You might be surprised to know that a well-placed stormwater pit can really keep your plumbing in good working order!
There will be backflow or increased pressure on your drainage systems if the precipitation has nowhere to go, which might cause issues like burst water pipes or even roots in pipes in the future, particularly if you have older plumbing system.
3. Enhances Your Outdoor Spaces
Unusable and unsightly, waterlogged backyards are the worst.
The key to a successful BBQ, outdoor play area, or dry garden is efficient rainwater management!
You can keep your outdoor areas usable and pleasant even after a heavy rain by installing a stormwater pit in your backyard. So, say goodbye to muddy lawns!
How to Maintain a Stormwater Pit
Installing a backyard stormwater pit is just the first step in excess rainwater management. To keep it working optimally, regular maintenance is essential.
Debris such as dirt, leaves, and silt can build up in your stormwater pit. This accumulation can cause blockages or even problems such as the difficulty in finding an underground water leak location.
By keeping up with routine maintenance, you can keep your drainage system in good working order and avoid expensive repairs in the future.
1. Routine Cleaning
First, remove the pit’s grate and check for visible debris. Use a small shovel or gloved hands to clear out leaves, sediment, and any other buildup.
If your pit connects to a drainage system, flushing the pipes periodically with water can help prevent blockages. This step is especially useful if your property has lots of trees or experiences heavy rainfall regularly.
2. Inspect for Damage
While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect the pit and its components for signs of wear or damage. Cracks in the pit, loose connections, or corrosion in metal parts can all compromise its functionality.
Addressing these issues early can save you from larger problems later, such as needing an entire drainage pit installation redo.
3. Schedule Professional Check-Ups
Sometimes, it’s best to call in the experts, especially if your stormwater pit is part of a complex system. A professional plumber can assess your setup, perform a thorough cleaning, and identify potential issues like blockages or leaks.
This is particularly helpful if you suspect problems but can’t locate them, such as an underground water leak location that’s not easily visible.
FAQ about Stormwater Pit
Let’s address some of the most common questions homeowners have about stormwater pits. If you’re still unsure about certain aspects of installation or maintenance, this section will help clear things up!
How much does it cost to install a stormwater pit?
The cost of installing a stormwater pit can vary depending on factors like the size of the pit, the complexity of your property’s drainage system, and whether you hire professionals.
On average, you might spend anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for a standard installation. If you’re planning a DIY project, the price could be lower, but keep in mind that professional expertise can save you from costly mistakes.
What is the difference between a stormwater pit and a soakwell?
A stormwater pit collects rainwater and directs it to a connected drainage system, making it ideal for areas with heavy rainfall.
A soakwell, on the other hand, slowly releases water back into the soil through a permeable design.
How do you keep a stormwater pit from floating?
To prevent your stormwater pit from floating, it must be anchored securely in place. This can be achieved by backfilling the surrounding area with gravel or concrete.
Ensuring proper water flow within the system also helps reduce pressure that might cause the pit to lift.
Should you call a professional for installing a stormwater pit?
While a DIY installation is possible, calling a professional is often the best option for a smooth, error-free process.
Pros have the tools, experience, and knowledge to handle challenges like ensuring the pit is correctly connected to your existing system or dealing with tricky pipework.
That’s why if you’re unsure how to install a stormwater pit, don’t hesitate to bring in the experts!
Conclusion
Installing a backyard stormwater pit is a smart way to manage excess rainwater and protect your property from potential damage. From choosing the right location to maintaining the pit for long-term performance, this guide has covered everything you need to know.
But let’s be real — installing a stormwater pit can be a challenging project, especially if you’re not familiar with drainage systems. That’s where we come in!
At Neighbourhood Plumbing, our team of experienced plumbers is here to help with your stormwater pit installation and any other plumbing needs.
Reach out to our trusted Melbourne plumbers today or check out our blog for more tips and guides!
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.
