In this brief article brought to you by Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air, we touch on the unspectacular chore of cleaning storm drains. If your drainage system is giving you problems, you can hire a uniformed and trained plumber by calling Rooter Hero. We offer a wide range of plumbing service, including drain cleaning and repair.

Reasons to Clean the Storm Drains

The point of storm drain systems is simple: to guide rain and stormwater. The benefits are profound, and keeping the storm drains clean is essential in ensuring functionality.

• PREVENT FLOODING: One of the primary reasons for cleaning storm drains is to prevent flooding. If storm drains are clogged or obstructed, water cannot flow freely. This leads to localized flooding that can damage property and pose safety risks to pedestrians and motorists.
• MAINTAIN INFRASTRUCTURE: Clean storm drains also help maintain the integrity and functionality of drainage infrastructure, including pipes, culverts, and catch basins. Accumulated debris, sediment, and pollutants can cause blockages and damage drainage components over time. Then you’ll be looking at costly repairs and disruptions in drainage systems.
• KEEP ENVIRONMENT CLEAN: Pollutants and contaminants carried by stormwater runoff can have adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems and public health. Cleaning storm drains removes these pollutants, preventing them from entering natural water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and streams. Protecting water quality is crucial for ecosystem health, wildlife habitat, and human recreational activities.
• MINIMIZE PUBLIC HEALTH RISK: Clogged or stagnant stormwater in drains can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests, increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases. Regular cleaning helps minimize public health risks associated with standing water, stagnant conditions, and potential contamination.
• REGULATORY COMPLIANCE: As you might imagine, many jurisdictions have regulations and standards in place that require regular inspection and cleaning to ensure compliance with environmental laws, water quality standards, and stormwater management guidelines.

What You Can Do to Keep Storm Drains Functional

The city or municipality is responsible for a great portion of storm drain maintenance, but the property owner has some responsibility as well. Here are some things you can do to support the plumbing system:

• Do NOT dump chemicals, oils, paints, or debris into street gutters or drainage systems. Send those to recycling centers or hazardous waste collection programs.
• Implement landscaping practices that promote infiltration and reduce runoff, such as planting native vegetation and creating rain gardens or bioswales.
• Promptly report any issues or concerns related to storm drains, such as clogs, blockages, or damage to drainage infrastructure, to the appropriate authorities.
• Familiarize yourself with local stormwater management regulations, guidelines, and best practices relevant to the property.

Consult with a Trained Plumber

Whether you have questions regarding your sewer line or storm drains, or if you need an urgent clogged drain line repair, the professionals at Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air are ready to help. Call Rooter Hero at any time to speak with a live member of our team. We’re happy to arrange a consultation or on-site visit for as soon as possible.