Cleaning underground storm drain pipes is essential for preventing flooding and maintaining your property's drainage system. The best approach depends on the severity and type of clog.
1. Preventative Maintenance (DIY):
The most effective way to deal with storm drain clogs is to prevent them in the first place.
* Keep the area clear: Regularly remove leaves, dirt, trash, and other debris from around storm drain entrances and catch basins. This is especially important after storms.
* Trim trees: Trim tree branches to prevent dead ones from falling into drains.
* Install guards: Consider installing downpipe strainers or leaf guards to prevent debris from entering your underground pipes.
* Regular flushing: For smaller pipes (under 36 inches in diameter) and shorter lengths (under 700 feet), regular flushing with a water source can be effective.
* Enzyme cleaners: Use enzyme-based drain cleaners to break down organic materials naturally.
2. DIY Cleaning for Minor Clogs:
If you suspect a partial clog, you can often address it yourself.
* Clear the drain cover: Remove any visible debris from the drain cover using a rake, shovel, broom, and gloves.
* Remove the drain cover: Storm drain covers are usually secured by a few screws. A power screwdriver can be helpful if they're gunked up.
* Manual removal: Once the cover is off, look for obvious clogs that can be removed by hand (wearing strong work gloves) or with a shovel.
* High-pressure hose: Use a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle or a power washer to dislodge debris. Insert the hose as far as possible and turn on the water full blast for several minutes.
* Drain snake or auger: For deeper clogs, a drain snake (also called an auger or cable rodding) can be fed into the pipe to break up blockages. Make sure to use the right size snake for your pipe. Slowly feed it in, rotating the handle clockwise, and continue pushing and rotating when you encounter resistance to break through the clog.
* Plunger: A plunger can create suction to dislodge blockages.
* Baking soda and vinegar: For minor clogs, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar. Wait an hour, then flush with boiling water. Other combinations include borax, vinegar, and salt; cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt; baking soda and lemon juice; or dish soap and hot water.
* Shop vac: A wet/dry vacuum can be used to suction out dry debris or blow it out.
3. When to Call a Professional:
For more severe or persistent clogs, it's best to call a professional.
* Hydro jetting: Professionals often use high-pressure water jetting (also called hydro jetting) to blast through tough blockages, including grease, tree roots, debris, and sediment. This method is very effective but may not be suitable for old or fragile pipes.
* Mechanical tools: Plumbers have specialized mechanical tools like high-powered augers to drill through clogs.
* Vacuum trucks: Industrial vacuum trucks (like Vactor trucks) are used to remove large quantities of debris and pollutant-filled sludge, especially for full catch basins. The removed debris must be disposed of safely and properly, often as hazardous waste.
* Video inspection: Professionals can use pipe inspection cameras to locate the exact source and nature of a clog, which helps in treating the problem effectively.
* Signs you need a professional:
* The clog doesn't resolve after your DIY attempts.
* You notice physical damage to the storm drain.
* The job requires heavy-duty tools or machinery.
* You're unsure about the clog's location or how to approach it.
* You see stagnant water in the yard, hear gurgling noises from drains, have slow-draining water, or foul smells.
Important Considerations:
* Responsibility: Determine who is responsible for the storm drain (homeowner or municipality) before undertaking cleaning, as this can vary based on location and local regulations.
* Safety: Always wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses when cleaning. If the drain was connected to a power source, turn off the electricity.
* Environmental impact: Avoid using chemical-based solutions in storm drains, as the water often flows untreated into freshwater bodies, harming water quality and aquatic life.