Storm drain systems are designed to move excess rain and ground water from paved streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and walking paths. These storm drains are usually fed by he street gutters, which are often fed by excess water flow coming from guttering systems on both houses and commercial buildings. Some common pollutants found in storm drains include :
- trash and debris
- oil and grease
- antifreeze
- mineral deposits
- paints
- cleaners and solvents
- pesticides
- fertilizers
- tree roots
- animal waste
- detergents
- sediments
Things to Know About Storm Drain Cleaning
Storm drainage systems need to be cleaned regularly. While cleaning necessary for all storm drain systems, there are limitations. Here are ten things to know about storm drain cleaning
1. Clogged drains can cause an overflow of water, leading to increased erosion and dangerous driving conditions. Areas with relatively flat grades or low water flow often require special attention as they rarely achieve high enough water flows to flush themselves.
2. Cleaning storm drains by flushing is more successful for pipes smaller than 36 inches in diameter. A water source is necessary for cleaning.
3. Since storm drainage systems direct rain water into sources of fresh water such as lakes and rivers, it is important to use environmentally safe products to clean the storm drains in these drainage systems.
4.The efficiency of storm flushing decreases when the length of the sewer line being clean exceeds 700 feet.
5. High-pressure water jetting or hydro jetting is one of the most effective wats to clean storm drains and clear away debris buildup. Here at Wind River Environmental we offer both commercial and residential storm drain cleanings.
6. It is important to get your storm drains and catch basins cleaned often to prevent emergency scenarios which could cause storm-water overflow, backup, property damage, and noncompliance.
7. It is beneficial to vacuum and remove debris without excessive use of washdown water as it will fill the debris storage body faster.
8. It is important to get an inspection done first to find the root of the problem, so it doesn't wind up being a costly expense treating the wrong problem. Video inspection is the most
common diagnostic option as it is easy, efficient, and a minimally invasive process.
9. Storm drains are recommended to be cleaned at least once a year if not more. You should increase the frequency of cleaning in areas more prone to litter or dirt accumulation, sensitive areas (waterbody), and areas with a history of plugging.
10. You can help keep storm drains clean, to reduce frequency of maintenance, by cleaning up fallen leaves, cleaning up trash near storm drains, and trimming your trees so dead branches don't find their way into the storm drains.
In Florida it rains quite frequently throughout the year so don't wait until your storm drains are causing flooding and possible damage to your property or building to call a professional. If you have questions about storm drain cleaning or are in need of a professional to clear a clogged sewer line or perform storm drain cleaning, give Wind River Environmental a call. We provide residential and commercial storm drain cleaning services, and will be happy to help you with all your storm drain cleaning needs.
