Fall weather can put your drainage system to the test. Leaves, dirt, debris, and buildup can restrict storm drains and drainage lines, making it harder for water to move away from your property when rain or snow arrives.
A storm drain that looks fine during dry weather can quickly become a problem once water starts flowing.
Before wetter weather hits Utah, here are five signs your storm drain or drainage system may need some attention.
1. Water Is Pooling Around the Drain
One of the easiest warning signs to spot is standing or pooling water around a storm drain.
Water should move into the drain without sitting for long periods of time. If it starts collecting around the opening, there may be leaves, dirt, sediment, or other debris restricting the flow.
Addressing the problem early can help keep water moving where it’s supposed to go.
2. The Drain Is Slow During Rain
Your storm drain might still be working, just not very well.
If water collects faster than the drain can handle it during rainfall, there could be buildup inside the line. Slow drainage can become a much bigger issue during heavier storms or prolonged wet weather.
3. You Can See Leaves, Dirt, or Debris
Sometimes the problem is right at the surface.
Leaves, landscaping debris, trash, dirt, and sediment can collect around storm drain openings and eventually make their way farther into the drainage system.
Clearing visible debris is a good first step, but recurring drainage problems may mean there’s additional buildup inside the line that needs professional cleaning.
4. You’re Seeing Water Where You Haven’t Before
New puddles or areas of standing water around your property are worth paying attention to.
If water suddenly begins collecting in driveways, parking areas, near buildings, or around landscaping, your drainage system may not be moving water as effectively as it should.
Even if the water eventually drains, a change in how water moves around your property can be an early warning sign of a drainage issue.
5. You Can’t Remember the Last Time Your Storm Drains Were Checked
If it’s been a while, fall is a great time to have your drainage system inspected.
Storm drains deal with more than water. Over time, dirt, sediment, leaves, and other debris can build up inside the system and reduce its ability to handle runoff.
Preventative cleaning and inspection can help identify potential problems before the next major storm exposes them.
Don’t wait until water is pooling around your property to find out there’s a problem.
New Pipe can inspect, clean, and repair drainage lines to help keep water moving and address problems before they become bigger headaches.
If you’re noticing slow drainage, standing water, or other signs of a problem, contact New Pipe to have your drainage system checked before Utah’s wetter fall and winter weather arrives. Contact us today!