Storm drains play an important role in the maintenance of roads and residential areas. Their main role is to prevent floods. Without them, driving during a rainstorm would be dangerous because of the excess water. During rainstorms, the water runs directly into the storm drains. The runoff is then carried in underground pipes or open ditches and discharges untreated into local streams, rivers and other bodies of water.
Types of Storm Drains :
There are two types of storm drains that you have most likely seen: side inlets and grated inlets.
Side Inlets :
Side inlets are storm drains on curbs that divert water from streets, roads or other surfaces into drains.
Grated Inlets :
Inlets are placed in the ground and are covered with a grated or barred surface to allow water to flow in while keeping other debris out.
In some inlets, there is a catch basin designed to collect other sediment and debris. The catch basin sits directly below the inlet so that the flow is not stopped and it is easier for heavy material to flow away from the drain.
Once excess water enters the storm drains, it is carried in underground pipes or open ditches and later discharged the runoff is then carried in underground pipes or open ditches and discharges untreated into local streams, rivers and other bodies of water.
Where does all the storm drain water go?
During rainstorms, water soaks into the ground and excess water goes into storm drains.
Along the way, the storm-water carries debris and other sediments from the street into the drain. Unlike sewer systems, ditches and storm drains do not connect to a water treatment plant, therefore everything that is collected in the water and flows down the drain will go directly into the lakes, ocean and other near bodies of water. This is why it is vital and essential for everyone to play close attention to where we dump hazardous material. It's also important to invest in storm drain cleaning services to keep drains tidy.
Normal activities can cause pollutants to enter storm drains and cause harm to the environment and aquatic life. Some of these hazardous materials include pesticides, pollutants, and oils.
How do you keep a storm drain clean?
There are a few things you can do around your neighborhood or commercial property to keep storm drains clean :
Clean up any grass clippings, leaves, dirt, or fertilizer left on driveways and sidewalks after performing yard work. Housing or blowing these materials into the street end up in the storm drain and eventually into local waterways.
Don't dump any chemicals, motor oil, pet waste, empty bottles or cans, soapy water, or other liquids or solids down a storm drain.
Contact a professional if you notice standing water near a storm drain after rainfall, or if you notice a clogged or damaged storm drain.
At Cloud 9 Services, we are here for all you storm drain system needs. If you are in need of any work done on your storm drain system, contact us today 407-481-2750, and one of our storm drain system specialists would be happy to assist you.