Blocked stormwater drains can lead to serious problems, including flooding, property damage, and water pooling around your home. In Chatswood, where heavy rains can occur, maintaining a clear and functioning stormwater drainage system is essential for protecting your property. If you’re dealing with a blocked stormwater drain, here are the most effective methods for clearing it and preventing future issues. More can be found here.
Use a High-Pressure Hose
A high-pressure hose is one of the simplest and most effective tools for clearing minor blockages in stormwater drains. The force of the water can help dislodge debris, such as leaves, dirt, and small twigs, that may be causing the blockage. Learn more about How to Identify and Fix Slow-Draining Sinks in Chatswood.
How to Use It:
- Attach the high-pressure hose to an outdoor water source.
- Insert the hose into the drain opening as far as it can go.
- Turn on the water and adjust the pressure to the highest setting.
- Move the hose back and forth to break up and flush away the debris.
This method is effective for clearing minor blockages near the surface and maintaining regular water flow through the drain.
Remove Debris by Hand
If you can see the blockage near the drain opening, you may be able to clear it manually. Leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in stormwater grates, preventing water from draining properly.
How to Do It:
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and sharp objects.
- Remove the drain cover or grate.
- Manually remove any visible debris from the drain entrance.
- Once the debris is cleared, flush the drain with water to ensure it’s flowing properly.
This method works well for blockages caused by surface debris but may not be as effective for deeper blockages.
Use a Drain Snake or Auger
A drain snake, also known as an auger, is a flexible tool designed to reach deeper into the pipes to clear more stubborn blockages. This tool is especially effective if the blockage is further down the drain and cannot be reached by hand or with a hose.
How to Use It:
- Insert the drain snake into the blocked drain.
- Push the snake through the pipe, rotating the handle as you go.
- When you feel resistance, this indicates the blockage.
- Continue rotating the snake to break up the debris or hook it onto the snake.
- Slowly pull the snake out, removing any trapped debris.
Once the blockage is cleared, flush the drain with water to ensure it’s flowing freely.
Hydro-Jetting
Hydro-jetting is a powerful and effective method used by professional plumbers to clear blocked stormwater drains. It involves using a specialised machine that blasts high-pressure water through the pipes to remove even the toughest blockages, such as tree roots, grease, and heavy debris.
How Hydro-Jetting Works:
Hydro-jetting is one of the most effective methods for clearing stubborn or severe blockages and is often used when other methods fail.
- A professional plumber inserts the hydro-jetting machine into the blocked drain.
- The machine uses a high-pressure stream of water to break up and flush away the blockage.
- The powerful force of the water can clean the inside of the pipes, removing any remaining debris or buildup.
CCTV Drain Inspection
If the blockage is deep within the stormwater system or difficult to locate, a CCTV drain inspection can be a useful tool. This method involves using a small camera to inspect the inside of the drain and identify the exact location and cause of the blockage.
How a CCTV Inspection Works:
- A plumber inserts a waterproof camera attached to a flexible cable into the stormwater drain.
- The camera transmits live video footage to a monitor, allowing the plumber to assess the condition of the pipes and locate the blockage.
- Once the blockage is identified, the plumber can use the appropriate method to clear it, such as hydro-jetting or pipe relining.
A CCTV drain inspection is a valuable tool for diagnosing complex blockages and ensuring the drain is thoroughly cleared.
Call a Professional Plumber
For severe or recurring stormwater drain blockages, it’s best to call a professional plumber. Blockages caused by tree roots, collapsed pipes, or heavy debris may require specialised equipment and expertise to resolve. A professional plumber will have the tools and knowledge needed to clear the blockage efficiently and prevent further damage to your property.
When to Call a Plumber:
- If DIY methods fail to clear the blockage.
- If water is backing up or pooling around your property.
- If you suspect the blockage is caused by tree roots or pipe damage.
Professional plumbers can also provide long-term solutions, such as pipe relining or installing root barriers, to prevent future blockages.
Preventing Future Blockages
Once you’ve cleared a blocked stormwater drain, it’s important to take steps to prevent future issues. Regular maintenance and care can help keep your drains clear and functioning properly.
Tips for Prevention:
- Regularly clean gutters and downpipes to prevent leaves and debris from entering the stormwater system.
- Install drain covers or grates to catch debris before it enters the pipes.
- Avoid planting trees too close to stormwater drains to prevent root intrusion.
- Conduct regular inspections of your stormwater system to catch potential problems early.
Blocked stormwater drains in Chatswood can cause serious problems if not addressed promptly. From using a high-pressure hose or drain snake for minor blockages to calling in a professional plumber for more severe cases, there are several effective methods for clearing blocked stormwater drains. Regular maintenance and preventive measures are key to keeping your stormwater system functioning efficiently and avoiding costly damage to your property.
If you’re dealing with a blocked stormwater drain and need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified plumber in Chatswood.
