How To Clear Stormwater Drain Blocked Areas?

After a deluge, you peek out to see rain pooling instead of draining. Uh oh, looks like the storm drains are clogged again. Stormwater drain blocked gutters and storm drains are a headache. But before you grab your rain boots for gutter unclogging, read these handy tips to quickly clear drain obstructions and get things flowing.

We’ve all been there – debris builds up, heavy rain arrives, and suddenly you’ve got a swamp in the driveway. Don’t worry, as per experts in the field The Relining Company, clearing a jammed stormwater drain is totally doable yourself with the right tools and techniques. Let’s go through smart steps to dissolve drain clogs so you can put that rainy day puddle problem behind you.

Assess the Situation

First up, do some sleuthing to understand why drainage stalled. Check if leaves, branches or trash are blocking the drain inlet or downpipe. Examine the drain opening and surrounding area for any debris that may have accumulated and is diverting water flow. Also inspect along the exterior drain line for mud or grass clippings that could obstruct water’s path. Knowing the source of the clog helps determine the best approach to clear it.

Locate the Blockage

Next, pinpoint where the clog exists. Is it at the drain opening where surface runoff enters? Or further down the line where pipes connect and run underground? Tracing the specific spot where water flow stops can take some patience and investigation. Run water into the drain and follow its path, checking each junction to see if you can isolate where it gets held up. This will tell you whether the clog is accessible from the surface, or buried deeper requiring mechanical clearing.

Clear Surface Debris

If you see piles of leaves or debris at drain openings, clear it away by hand or with tools. Removing the surface layer of decaying matter prevents it from getting flushed deeper into the drain. Carefully scoop out leaves, grass clippings, trash and other organics that could divert flow. A trowel helps scrape caked-on debris away. Hosing the area helps too. Getting this quick fix top layer unclogged may get your drain functioning again.

Flush with a Garden Hose

For deeper obstructions, grab your garden hose. Insert the end into the drain opening and blast away. The forceful spray can purge internal mud and gunk clogging pipes. Let water run for several minutes from multiple angles. Repeat if needed until the clog clears.

Dislodge with a Drain Snake

For more stubborn backups like tree roots, break out a mechanical drain snake. Feed the rotating coil down the pipe – its scratching action scrapes away tenacious obstructions.

Slowly retract the snake with the motor running until the line is clear. Don’t force it if there’s resistance.

Clear Roots with Salt or Baking Soda

For natural root killers, pour salt, baking soda or vinegar down drains. These abrasive agents break down roots over several applications. Follow with hot water.

Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

If DIY methods fail, get commercial chemical cleaners made to dissolve organic obstructions. Use cautiously by following label directions.

Conclusion

With persistence and the right gear, you can beat clogged storm drains. Report any chronic issues to local authorities and request a professional hydro jetting for fully fresh pipes. Stay dry, my friends.