Storm Drain Cleaning: A Complete Guide

Storm drains are an important part of streets, sidewalks, and other paved surfaces. These drains can help to prevent flooding and keep the paved area clean. But in the event of a blockage, people face issues such as foul odors, property damage, dangerous water pooling, and slow drainage. 

If you want to know the importance of storm drain cleaning, the causes of clogged drains, or anything related to it, this guide will answer all your questions. Here is everything you need to know about the storm drain in detail:

What Happens When You Don’t Clean a Drain?

When a clog happens in a drain, it’s essential to fix it immediately. Without storm drain cleaning, you have to face many problems, such as:

• Clogged drains can cause water to back up onto streets and sidewalks, which leads to flooding. 
• Flooding from clogged drains reaches inside the home and causes water damage. This water damage can lead to property damage and even cause costly repairs. 
• Standing floodwater can cause mosquitoes and other insects to breed, which can spread diseases.
• Water that runs along streets can pollute the environment. 
• Homeowners may be answerable of any damage or injuries if the clogged drain is located on their property.

Common Causes of Clogged Drain

Here are some common reasons that clog a drain:

• Kitchen Sink: Fats, oils, and grease solidify in pipes, while food particles (coffee grounds, pasta) catch on them.
• Bathroom Sink/Shower: Hair and soap scum combine to form tough blockages.
• Toilet: Flushable wipes, sanitary products, and excessive toilet paper are the top culprits.
• Main Sewer Line: Tree roots can enter small cracks in pipes, causing massive backups
• Tree Roots: Tree roots can grow into underground pipes, causing major blockages and structural damage.
• Mineral Buildup: In hard-water areas, calcium and magnesium deposits build up inside pipes, reducing the space available for water to flow.
• Pipe Issues: Old pipes can collapse, corrode, or become damaged, allowing dirt, debris, or roots to block flow.

How to Clean a Storm Drain

Regular inspection and cleaning of your storm drain to keep it free from debris can help to prevent clogs. You can clean your storm drain at home by manually removing the blockage. 

When you find a pile of leaves, trash blocking, twigs, or a storm drain system, you should remove them as soon as possible. Use gloves and a rake or shovel to move all material aside, scoop it up, and throw it into a garbage can.

You can also use a power washer on the storm drain to help clear a clog and dislodge debris. 

When Should You Call in a Professional

When a problem is severe, and DIYs may not work, you need to call a professional. Some storm cleanups may require tools and advanced techniques to remove debris and more severe blockages. 

Hiring a professional can help you access advanced tools to clear any clogs in your storm drain. High-pressure water jetting is also used by professionals who can remove grease, tree roots, and debris.