Time to Take Precautions (Clearing Blocked Stormwater Drains)

We're currently in the eye of the storm, more or less. The notorious storm season in south-east Queensland has well and truly begun, meaning, if you haven't already, it's probably time to assess the efficiency of any nearby stormwater drains.

A blocked stormwater drain can have a devastating effect on properties during an unrelenting storm season. The stormwater management system surrounding you should function in a way that keeps you and your property safe from excessive rainfall.

Why it is Important to Have Clear Stormwater Drains

Stormwater drains serve one specific purpose, and it is a fairly significant one. These drains are designed to collect rainwater runoff and drain it directly into our rivers, lakes and oceans.

When a stormwater drain becomes blocked, it can negatively impact the way in which water drains from your lawns, driveways, pathways, and roofs. This can cause an overflow on your property, which is nobody's idea of fun.

The Common Culprits

As with any blocked drain, there are a few common culprits that are known to be problematic for stormwater drains, such as:

Dirt

In addition to collecting rainwater runoff, stormwater drains also collect mud. This mud often dries down to form clumps inside the plumbing system. While this alone may not be the worst offender, dried-up mud accumulating around tree roots or other debris can cause significant obstructions that slow down the flow of water.

Rubbish

While rubbish shouldn't be going down your stormwater drains due to the threat it poses to wildlife, it can also cause a blockage in your drain. Leftover plastic and wrappers can get stuck in pipelines; trapped by other obstructions, or glued down by mud. This collection of rubbish can build over time, forming a sizable blockage.

Leaves and twigs

Similar to rubbish, loose leaves and twigs can accumulate in stormwater drainage systems and become trapped, eventually causing a blockage that could prevent the necessary flow of water.

Tree roots

And, of course, if blocked drains are involved, then tree roots are often nearby. Given that tree roots are known to seek out water in any way they can, it is not uncommon for surrounding plumbing systems to become the ideal prey. They enter the pipe system through even the smallest of cracks, weaving thick nets and severely obstructing the flow of water.

Preventing a Blockage

So, what can you do to help prevent the stormwater drains around you from becoming blocked?

Clear Gutters

One way to help make sure you are not increasing the likelihood of a blocked drain is to clear your roof and gutters of any branches, twigs, or leaves that could find their way into any stormwater drains. A gutter guard can also be helpful in preventing any of the debris you might miss from escaping through your downpipes.

Clean Driveways, Yards and Pathways

Similarly to this, clearing your lawn, driveway, and front footpath of any loose debris will help to ensure that you are not increasing the risk of a blocked stormwater drain. This means rubbish, leaves, twigs, or anything that could pose an issue if sucked into your stormwater drains should be cleared from these areas.

Preserve Vegetation

Soil is also known to loosen with heavy rainfall, collecting within the stormwater drains. Preserving vegetation and grassed areas is a great way to prevent sediment runoff as they help to filter the stormwater and stop exposed soil from being turned to mud.

Getting Them Cleared

Despite your best efforts, blockages can occasionally still occur for a variety of different reasons, and neglecting maintenance will only make matters worse.

Our skilled technicians at Jetset Plumbing specialise in clearing and repairing blocked stormwater drains. Typically, they will start by using a CCTV drain camera to inspect the drain itself. This enables them to identify the precise cause of the problem and design a solution that specifically caters to the issue.

If you are concerned about the state of your stormwater drains, call us on 1800 443 996 and we will get a fast and reliable plumber out to you in no time. Don't wait, be prepared this storm season.