What to do when there is a storm water blockage ?
A proper stormwater blockage system is essential as the rainwater can destroy the property and can have a severe impact on health; this a reason why households have their stormwater systems in their houses, but in case you find there is a blockage, call a plumber in Adelaide and see that stormwater drains are cleaned.Â
 From flooded basements and blocked drainage systems to erosion and property damage, these are all consequences of failing to address stormwater blockages early on. So if you want to keep your property safe, dry, and in good condition - this post is for you! We'll share some practical tips to avoid costly damages caused by ignoring stormwater blockages. Let's get started!
 But before let us understand the concept of stormwater blockages
 What are Storm Water Blockages?
 Most of us are familiar with the dangers of ignoring blocked storm drains. Whenever there are heavy rains, water can pool in streets and parking lots, causing flooding and property damage. However, many people don't realize that ignored stormwater blockages can also cause costly damage to your sewer system. So remain aware of the different types of blockages that can occur and take the necessary steps to keep your storm drains clean and clear. You can then prevent costly damage to your property and protect your family's health.
 What causes blockages?Â
 One of the reasons for stormwater blockages is leaves and debris. When these materials fall into a catch basin or storm drain, they can clog up the system and prevent water from flowing through. This can lead to flooding and other problems.Â
  Another common reason is grease and oil. When cars are parked on the pavement, rain can wash away spills and track oil and grease into catch basins and storm drains. Once these materials build up, they can create a thick residue that traps water and prevents it from flowing properly.
  Finally, sediment can also accumulate in stormwater systems and cause blockages. Sediment comes from construction sites, parking lots, farms, and other land uses. It can be carried into catch basins by runoff or windblown dust. Over time, sediment builds up and creates a barrier that slows or blocks water flow.
 How to Spot Signs of a Potential Blockage?
 Unfortunately, many people remain unaware when there is a blockage, so it is best that you should spot signs of blockage, and these are:
·        Excess water pooling in and around areas where there is no chance of water getting accumulated. Â
·        Unusual foul smells coming from drains or standing waterÂ
·        Slow draining or no draining of water from gutters, downspouts, catch basins, or other drainage areasÂ
·        Sinks, toilets, or tubs that backup when water turns onÂ
·        Water leaking from joints in pipesÂ
·        If you notice any of these signs, take immediate action to prevent further damage.Â
 Stormwater blockages can be easily avoided by regularly inspecting and maintaining stormwater systems and catch basins, cleaning out debris such as leaves and twigs, and ensuring that all drain pipes are clear. Regularly check for any changes in local water tables or levels to detect early signs of flooding.
 Preventive steps to take to clean blockages
 Most commercial properties are equipped with a stormwater system that helps to prevent flooding and water damage. However, if these systems are not properly maintained, they can become clogged and cause significant problems. Ignoring blockages in your stormwater system can lead to costly damages, so it's important to be proactive about preventative maintenance.
 There are a few preventative maintenance strategies you can use to avoid stormwater blockages:
 ·        Regularly inspect your stormwater system for blockages and remove any debris that you find. This will help to keep the system running smoothly and prevent future problems.
 ·        Check the inlets and drains to ascertain they're clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris. Clogged inlets and drains can cause water to back up into your building, so keep them clear.
 ·        Ascertain that all gutters and downspouts on your property are clean and debris cleared. Leaves and other materials can build up in these areas and cause blockages. Keeping them clean, ensure that water can flow freely through the system.
 ·        If you have a catch basin on your property, inspect it regularly and clean accumulated debris. Catch basins can become clogged easily, so keep on cleaning them.
 Regularly check the top of the drain grafting.
 Clean the area on and around the storm drain gate, and clean all debris like sticks and leaves and anything that you might find on the top of the grate or in its vicinity. Disposing of the same into receptacle areas ensures it does not reappear in the grafting. In some places, you can also keep a strainer on top of the grating to help keep the same clear.
 Prevent opening or unclogging the drain yourselfÂ
 As many types of pollutants make their way into the storm drain, a clogged drain can contain pesticides, fertilizers, dead animals and many more toxic chemicals, do not clean clogged material yourself even if you are wearing protective gloves and clothing, Prevent digging deep into the storm drain where toxic materials are settled. The best is to call a professional plumber.
 In addition to maintaining clear drains, you also need to be aware of the areas around your property that are susceptible to flooding. This includes low-lying areas where water pools down and areas downstream from a blocked drain or culvert. If you know a storm is coming, take the time to clear debris from these areas in advance. You can help reduce the risk of flooding on your property.Â
 Ultimately if you do experience flooding, don't wait to call for help. Reach for a professional plumber in Adelaide or water damage remediation service as soon as possible to minimize the damage and get your home back to normal. By taking these steps, you can avoid costly repairs and other expenses you might incur by ignoring blocked storm drains.
