Blocked stormwater pits and pipes, and drains are common problems that can cause flooding, damage, and health hazards. In this blog, we will explore the causes, risks, effects, and solutions of blocked stormwater systems and how to fix them, including gutters and downpipes. We will also share some tips on how to prevent and maintain your stormwater system to avoid blockages and keep it functioning properly. Whether you have a residential or commercial property, you need to be aware of the potential risks of blocked stormwater systems and how to deal with them effectively.
What Causes a Blocked StormWater Drain?
Blocked stormwater drains can occur due to various reasons. Here are some common causes:
Debris Accumulation: Leaves, twigs, litter, and other debris can accumulate in stormwater drains, gradually causing blockages over time. This is particularly common during seasons with heavy rainfall or strong winds.
Sediment and Soil Build-up: Sediment, dirt, and soil can enter stormwater drains through runoff from nearby construction sites, gardens, or erosion. Over time, these materials can accumulate and restrict the flow of water.
Tree Roots: Tree roots seek moisture and can infiltrate stormwater pipes through cracks or joints. As the roots grow and expand, they can cause blockages and even damage the pipes.
Damaged Pipes: Cracked or collapsed pipes due to age, ground movement, or external factors can impede the flow of stormwater and lead to blockages.
Improper Disposal: Dumping or pouring solid waste, oils, grease, paint, or chemicals into stormwater drains can cause blockages and contaminate the water system.
Structural Obstructions: Objects like toys, plastic bags, and other debris may accidentally or intentionally obstruct stormwater drains, resulting in blockages.
What are the Signs of Blocked Stormwater Pits and Pipes?
The following signs indicate that you have a blocked stormwater drain, pit, pipe, or gutter:
- Water overflowing from the drain, pit, pipe or gutter during heavy rain or after a storm.
- Water pooling around your property’s drain, pit, pipe, gutter, or other areas.
- A foul smell comes from the drain, pit, pipe, gutter, or nearby areas.
- Gurgling noises from the drain, pit, pipe or gutter when water is running.
- Slow water drainage from the drain, pit, pipe, gutter, or other fixtures.
- Debris such as leaves, twigs, dirt, rocks or rubbish blocking the drain, pit, pipe or gutter opening or inside the pipe.
Potential Risks of Blocked Stormwater Pits and Pipes
However, stormwater pits and pipes can get blocked by various causes, such as leaves, dirt, sand, roots, rubbish or incorrect connections. A blocked stormwater drain can cause serious problems for your home and your health. Here are some of the potential risks of a blocked stormwater drain and how to avoid them.
1. Flooding
If your stormwater pit or pipe is blocked, the water will have nowhere to go and overflow onto your property or your home. This can cause damage to your building, foundations, furniture, appliances and belongings. It can also create a safety hazard for you and your family, especially if electrical wiring or equipment is involved. Flooding can also affect your neighbours and the public infrastructure, such as roads and footpaths.
2. Mould and Mildew
When water accumulates on your property or inside your home, it creates a moist and humid environment that encourages the growth of mould and mildew. These fungi can cause health issues such as allergies, asthma, respiratory infections and skin irritations. They can also damage your walls, ceilings, floors and carpets.
3. Pests and Diseases
A blocked stormwater drain can also attract pests such as mosquitoes, rats, cockroaches and flies. These insects and rodents can carry diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, leptospirosis and salmonella. They can also contaminate your food and water sources and cause damage to your property.
4. Pollution
A blocked stormwater drain can also affect the quality of the water that flows into the natural environment. If your stormwater pipe is connected to the sewer system or if there is rubbish or chemicals in the water, it can pollute the rivers, lakes and oceans that receive it. This can harm aquatic life and ecosystems and pose a risk to human health.
How to Fix a Blocked Stormwater Drain, Pits, Pipes and Gutters?
If you notice any signs of a blocked stormwater drain, such as water overflowing from your gutters or pits, water pooling around your home or foul smells coming from your drains, you should act quickly to fix the problem. Here are some steps you can take to unblock your stormwater drain:
Identify the Cause and Location of the Blockage
You can use a CCTV camera to inspect your stormwater pipes and see what is causing the blockage and where it is located. This will help you determine the best way to clear it.
Use a High-Pressure Jet Blaster or a Drain Snake
Depending on the type and severity of the blockage, you can use a high-pressure jet blaster or a drain snake to break it up and flush it out of your stormwater pipe. A jet blaster uses high-speed and pressure water to blast away any debris or roots in your pipe. A drain snake is a flexible metal rod with a cutting head that can be inserted into your pipe and rotated to cut through any obstructions.
Call a Licensed and Insured Plumber
If you cannot clear the blockage yourself or suspect there is damage to your stormwater pipe, you should call a licensed and insured plumber like Get Unblocked Stormwater Drain Services. They have the expertise and equipment to handle any stormwater drainage issue safely and effectively. They can also advise you on preventing future blockages and maintaining your stormwater system.
How To Prevent Blocked Stormwater Pits and Pipes?
The best way to avoid the risks and costs of a blocked stormwater drain is to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Here are some tips on how to keep your stormwater pits and pipes clear:
Clean Your Gutters and Downpipes Regularly
You should remove any leaves, dirt, sand or other debris from your gutters and downpipes at least twice a year or more often if you have trees near your roof. This will prevent them from clogging up your stormwater pits and pipes.
Install Gutter Guards or Leaf Filters
You can also install gutter guards or leaf filters on your gutters to prevent debris from entering them in the first place. These mesh screens or brushes fit over your gutters and allow water to pass through but block any solid matter.
Trim Your Trees and Plants
You should also trim any trees or plants that have roots or branches.
Conclusion
Blocked stormwater pits and pipes can cause serious problems for your home and property. They can lead to flooding, water damage, mould growth, pest infestation and health hazards. That’s why keeping your gutters, downpipes and stormwater systems clear and well-maintained is important.
If you notice any signs of blockage, such as slow drainage, gurgling noises, foul smells or water pooling around your house, you should act quickly and call a blocked drain specialist. A licensed and insured plumber will have all the professional tools and equipment to diagnose and fix the problem. They can use CCTV cameras, high-pressure water jets, electric eels and other methods to clear any blockage and restore the flow of water.
Don’t let a blocked drain ruin your day or damage your home. Contact us today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a clean and functional stormwater system.
