Rusty storm drain cover labeled.

Proper storm drain cleanout is crucial to maintaining a functional drainage system for your home or business. Debris, such as leaves and trash, can cause standing water and flooding in storm drains. Regular cleaning prevents these issues and ensures efficient water flow away from your property.

Ignoring clogged storm drains may seem minor initially, but it can lead to severe damage during heavy rain. This post covers how to clean storm drains, the benefits of keeping them clear, and why professional maintenance might be the best choice.

How To Clear A Storm Drain Safely And Effectively

Start by removing visible debris from the surface of the drain, such as leaves and trash. For more thorough cleanouts, use tools like a drain snake or high-pressure water jet to clear deeper blockages. Be sure to wear protective gloves and avoid contact with contaminated water.

Tools And Tips For Storm Drain Cleaning

Before starting any cleaning project, make sure you have at least a drain snake and a vacuum. It is essential to have the right tools, as using improper equipment can damage the drain system or fail to fully remove blockages. Check out some commonly used tools for clearing drains.

  • Drain Snake or Auger: Useful for breaking up small clogs inside the pipe.
  • Shovel and Rake: Ideal for surface-level debris removal.
  • Wet/Dry Vacuum: Helps suction out standing water and soft blockages.
  • High-Pressure Water Jet: Blasts away sediment or hardened buildup inside the drain.

Using the right combination of these tools increases efficiency and helps prevent future clogs. Always check your local regulations before flushing out storm drains to avoid environmental violations.

Does Making Sure Storm Drains Are Clean Stop Sewer Backup?

The answer is yes, keeping storm drains clean can significantly reduce the risk of sewer backups by allowing stormwater to drain away properly.

When storm drains are blocked, water has nowhere to go and may infiltrate sewer systems, causing backups into homes and businesses. Regular maintenance helps prevent plumbing mistakes, protect your plumbing infrastructure and prevent unsanitary and expensive situations. 

How Much Does It Cost To Clean A Storm Drain?

On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $150 and $500 for a professional storm drain cleaning. For larger properties or commercial sites, the cost may be higher. The cost can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the drain, the extent of the blockage, and whether specialized equipment is required.

However, this is a worthwhile investment when compared to the potential cost of water flood damage or sewer system repairs.

Benefits Of Regular Storm Drain Cleanout

Routine cleanouts do more than prevent blockages: they enhance your property's value, safety, and efficiency. Taking a proactive approach to maintenance ensures that your drainage system performs at its best year-round. Some key benefits of regular storm drain cleaning include:

  1. preventing flooding during heavy rainstorms;
  2. protecting landscaping and pavement from water damage;
  3. reducing health risks from standing water and bacteria;
  4. extending the life of your drainage and sewer systems; and
  5. complying with local regulations and avoiding fines.

By making drain cleaning a part of your regular maintenance routine, you protect your property and peace of mind. If you are concerned about drainage around your property, do not wait until the next big storm to take action.

A proper storm drain cleanout is essential to protect your home or business from water damage and system failure. Contact Wisercosts plumbing to schedule professional storm drain cleaning. With our tools and expertise, we'll keep your drainage systems clear and effective. Safeguard your property before the next rainfall!