The majority of Sydney home and business owners do not realise that their stormwater drain may block up extremely quickly after a large downpour. Stormwater drains can handle a large volume of water, however if something is blocking the drain they will quickly overflow and can cause big problems. They can cause damage on your property and can be a health risk if the drain is not cleared up quickly after a blockage. Things you can do to prevent a blocked stormwater drain include;
1. YEARLY DRAIN CLEANING
It is a good investment to get your drains cleaned by an expert drainage plumber once a year. They will clear the drain using a jet blaster which uses high pressured water to thoroughly clean the inside of your drains so they are clear of debris build up. It will also clear tree roots, and other substances that have got caught up in your home or business drainage system. It is the quickest, and most efficient way to clear your stormwater drains, as the most cost effective solution. Cleaning the drains annually will prevent a complete blockage which will save you money down the track.
2. USE A PLUMBER TO INSTALL YOUR PIPES
All of your household pipes should only be installed by a plumber who is licensed. Do not try to attempt to do it yourself, it may seem like a good option at the time, however you run the risk of problems in the future. If the pipes are not joined correctly or misaligned, it may allow tree roots to enter, and once you have tree roots, this can become a long term and expensive problem to have.
3. BE AWARE OF THE SIGNS OF A BLOCKED STORMWATER DRAIN
There will always be warning signs that your stormwater drain is starting to block up or is blocked. These include; water gushing out of your pipes, grates that are flooding during downpours, flooding on your property, and water gurgling sounds. If you contact a plumber to investigate after you notice one or many of these signs, you will could save yourself further damage to your property as well as money before the problem becomes a bigger issue. Leaves and other debris is a common cause of a blocked stormwater drain, which can be prevented by cleaning out your gutters regularly.
4. BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU PLANT TREES ON YOUR PROPERTY
Tree roots are one of the most common causes of blocked stormwater drain and drains in general. Tree roots can enter your drains through old pipes which have cracked or are misaligned. When planting new trees on your property, always make sure that you plant them a fair distance away from any drain pipes.
5. INSTALL GUTTER GUARDS AND GRATES
Gutter guards and stormwater grates are another great way of preventing blockages, they can catch debris and leaves and stop them from entering the drain. You should clean the guards and grates on a regular basis so there is no build up.
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR STORMWATER DRAIN IS BLOCKED
If your stormwater drain is blocked, 4 Elements Plumbing drainage experts offer an emergency service throughout Sydney. Our specialty is clearing blocked drains and our team are highly experienced and can solve your drain blockage quickly with the latest technology we have onboard all of our vehicles. Call us today on 1300 790 930 for a free quote or to come and clear your drain immediately.