How to Maintain Stormwater Drains Properly

Stormwater drain plays a vital role in protecting your property from water damage during rainfall. They are designed to collect rainwater runoff from the surface and direct it into the appropriate water systems. However, like any other plumbing system, stormwater drainage systems can become blocked or damaged over time if not properly maintained.

Here’s why you should take regular stormwater drain maintenance seriously:

• Prevents Flooding: Blocked stormwater pits can lead to flooding in and around your property. This can cause significant damage to structures, gardens, and driveways.
• Protects the Environment: Proper maintenance ensures that stormwater flows freely, reducing the risk of waterlogging, erosion, and pollution. A well-maintained stormwater drains Melbourne can prevent contaminants from being washed into nearby water bodies.
• Increases Lifespan: Regular maintenance of stormwater plumbing helps extend the life of your drainage system, preventing costly repairs or replacements.
• Maintains Property Value: A well-functioning drainage system is an essential feature for potential buyers, ensuring that your property remains attractive and functional.

1. Inspect Your Stormwater Drains Regularly

Routine inspections are crucial to ensuring that your stormwater drains Melbourne is functioning as it should. Over time, debris such as leaves, dirt, and twigs can accumulate, blocking the flow of water. Additionally, storm water drainage can become clogged with sediment or waste, leading to potential blockages.

Tip: Perform an inspection of your stormwater system at least twice a year, ideally before the rainy season begins, to ensure everything is clear and functioning properly.

2. Clean Stormwater Drains

Cleaning your stormwater drains Melbourne is one of the most effective ways to ensure proper drainage. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can collect in the drain, impeding the water flow. Over time, these blockages can cause water to back up, creating hazardous conditions for your property.

To clean a stormwater drain:

• Remove visible debris and leaves from the grates and pits.
• Use a pressure hose to flush out remaining debris from the system. Be careful not to push the debris further down the drain where it may cause more serious blockages.
• If your storm water drainage is filled with silt, you may need to hire a professional plumber to carry out a more thorough cleaning.

3. Check for Structural Damage

Damaged storm water drain can cause leaks, poor drainage, or system failure. Over time, tree roots, ground shifts, or general wear and tear can affect the integrity of your stormwater system. Cracks, misalignment, or leaks in your stormwater drains Melbourne can allow water to escape, which could lead to erosion or further damage to your property.

Tip: Inspect your stormwater drainage for any visible signs of wear, including cracks, loose connections, or missing parts. If you notice anything unusual, call a qualified plumber to assess and repair the damage.

4. Ensure Proper Drainage Flow

Effective stormwater drainage is all about ensuring water flows freely from your property into the stormwater system. Properly designed storm drains should direct water away from your home, preventing water from pooling around foundations, driveways, or gardens.

Check that:

• The flow of water is unobstructed and directed to the designated stormwater pit.
• Water is not collecting near the edge of the stormwater drains Melbourne, causing erosion or damage to surrounding areas.
• There are no low points or stagnant areas in your yard where water can pool.

5. Install Drainage Grates

Installing drainage grates over your stormwater drains Melbourne can help prevent larger debris from entering the system. It also makes it easier to clean the storm water drain when necessary. Grates should be securely attached and free from any blockages to ensure the smooth flow of water.

Tip: Choose durable, rust-resistant grates to withstand the harsh Melbourne weather conditions.

6. Maintain Your Stormwater Pit

A stormwater pit serves as the collection point for runoff water. It’s essential that your pit remains clear and well-maintained to avoid blockages. Over time, sediment can build up in the pit, which can impede water flow.

To maintain the stormwater pit:

• Remove any accumulated debris or sediment regularly.
• Check for signs of erosion or degradation around the edges of the pit.
• Ensure the lid or cover is properly sealed and not damaged.

7. Ensure Downpipes Are Functioning

Stormwater drains rely on downpipes to funnel rainwater from the roof to the ground level where it can enter the drainage system. Check your downpipes for blockages, corrosion, or damage.

Tip: Clean gutters and downpipes regularly, especially after leaves fall in autumn, to prevent any build-up that could restrict water flow into your stormwater drainage system.

8. Be Mindful of Landscaping Around Stormwater Drains

Landscaping elements, like garden beds, trees, and shrubs, can impact your stormwater system’s performance. Tree roots can grow into stormwater pipes, causing damage or blockages, while overgrown plants can obstruct the flow of water.

To maintain proper stormwater drainage:

• Avoid planting large trees near stormwater drains to prevent root interference.
• Keep garden beds well-trimmed to ensure that they do not block access to stormwater drains or pit openings.

9. Consider Professional Plumbing Services

While some stormwater drain maintenance tasks can be handled DIY, certain aspects require the expertise of an expert plumber Melbourne. An expert plumber can carry out complete inspections, perform repairs, and clean your stormwater system to ensure it remains functional and safe.

An expert plumber will:

• Use advanced tools to clear blockages or sediments from your storm water pit.
• Inspect the overall condition of your stormwater drainage system, identifying any potential problems before they escalate.
• Provide expert advice on how to maintain your system long-term and prevent future issues.

10. Address Problems Promptly

If you notice signs of stormwater drainage problems, such as slow water flow, bad odours, or visible pooling, it’s essential to address them promptly. Delaying repairs can lead to more significant damage to your property, costly repairs, or a flooded yard.

If you experience any of these issues, it’s important to call a plumber immediately. They can identify the cause of the problem and take action to restore your stormwater drainage system.

Regular stormwater drain maintenance is essential to the safety and longevity of your property. By ensuring proper stormwater drainage, you prevent water damage, minimise the risk of flooding, and keep your environment clean and healthy. Remember, while maintaining stormwater drains is essential for your property, always prioritise safety. Don’t wait for a stormwater drain to become an emergency, maintain it properly, and your property will thank you for it.

For expert stormwater drain maintenance and plumbing services in Melbourne, contact Flowsafe Plumbing today at 0489 982 138 or visit our enquiry page and keep your stormwater drain maintained properly and your property safe and dry!