5 Methods to Clear a Blocked Stormwater Drain in Sydney

Blocked stormwater drains are a common nuisance, especially after heavy rains or due to debris accumulation. Before you grab a plunger or call in the pros, take a moment to inspect the area around the drain. Often, the culprit is as simple as leaves, branches, or other debris that have gathered and clogged the flow. Remove any large objects or obvious blockages sitting on top of or just inside the drain opening. This quick check can save you time and might even solve the problem before more involved methods are needed. Not only can they cause inconvenience, but they can also lead to property damage if not addressed promptly.

Fortunately, there are several simple methods you can try to clear a blocked stormwater drain before resorting to professional help.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through five effective techniques to tackle this issue using plain language and easy-to-follow steps.

Essential Tools for Clearing a Stormwater Drain

Before you get started, it’s important to gather the right tools. You won’t need a hardware store’s entire inventory, but having the following items on hand will make the job much easier:

• Plunger – Handy for loosening minor clogs with some good old-fashioned muscle.
• Protective gloves – Clearing drains can get messy; keep your hands safe from grime and sharp debris.
• Safety goggles – Protect your eyes from unexpected splashes.
• Sturdy bucket – Useful for removing leaves, mud, and gunk from around the drain opening.
• Drain rod or plumbing snake – Essential for breaking up stubborn blockages deeper within the pipe.
• Garden hose – Needed to flush the drain and test if the blockage has cleared.

With these tools at the ready, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle most home drain clogs without breaking a sweat.

What to Do Immediately if Your Stormwater Drain Overflows

When your stormwater drain suddenly starts overflowing, quick action is key to minimising mess and potential damage. Here’s what you should do right away:

• Move any valuables or electrical items away from the affected area to prevent water damage.
• Put on waterproof gloves and, if you have them handy, some safety goggles for protection.
• Check around the drain for visible debris like leaves, twigs, or litter and clear what you can by hand.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals—they can harm your pipes and the environment.
• Look for standing water pooling around the drain, and gently push it away with a broom to reduce pressure while you work.

Once you’ve taken these initial steps, you’ll be ready to try tried-and-true methods for clearing the blockage yourself.

Inspecting the Source of the Blockage

Before jumping into unclogging, it’s helpful to get a clear idea of what’s causing the problem. Start by visually checking around the drain opening—look for an obvious build-up of leaves, twigs, dirt, or even the occasional tennis ball (Sydney winds have a way of gifting us surprises). You can use a torch for a closer look down the drain entrance if needed. Often, sweeping away or picking up any visible debris will shed light on whether the blockage is superficial or possibly deeper within the pipe.

Why Are Stormwater Drains Important?

Stormwater drains play a key role in protecting our homes and neighborhoods from flooding by directing rainwater and runoff away from streets, driveways, and yards. Without proper drainage, water can quickly accumulate, leading to property damage, erosion, and even hazardous driving conditions. Plus, stormwater drains help prevent pollutants like oil, litter, and debris from entering our local waterways, keeping Sydney’s environment cleaner and safer for everyone.

1. Clearing Debris with a Plunger

If you notice that your stormwater drain is blocked, the first method to try is using a plunger. Here’s how to do it:

• Put on gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself.
• Position the plunger over the drain opening and firmly press down to create a seal.
• Push and pull the plunger vigorously for about 30 seconds to dislodge any debris.

Remove the plunger and check if the water starts draining properly. If not, repeat the process a few times.

2. Using Boiling Water

Boiling water can sometimes be effective in clearing minor blockages in stormwater drains. Follow these steps:

• Boil a kettle or pot of water.
• Carefully pour the boiling water directly into the blocked drain.
• Allow the water to work its way through the blockage for several minutes.

Check if the water starts draining. If not, you may need to repeat the process or try another method.

3. DIY Drain Cleaning Solution

You can create a homemade drain-cleaning solution using common household ingredients. Here’s how:

• Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar in a bowl or cup.
• Pour the solution into the blocked drain and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
• After the solution has had time to work, pour boiling water down the drain to flush away the loosened debris.

Check if the blockage has cleared. If not, you may need to try another method or seek professional assistance.

4. Drain Snake or Wire Coat Hanger

A drain snake or wire coat hanger can be useful for dislodging stubborn blockages further down the drain. Follow these steps:

• Straighten out the wire coat hanger or extend the drain snake.
• Carefully insert the wire into the drain and maneuver it around to break up the blockage.
• Pull out any debris that you can reach with the wire.

Flush the drain with water to remove any remaining debris.

Using a Copper Pipe to Clear a Blockage

Sometimes, a regular drain snake isn’t available, but a length of copper pipe can do the trick for stubborn blockages in your stormwater drain. Here’s how you can use it:

• Take a sturdy copper pipe and gently insert it into the drain opening.
• Manoeuvre the pipe by twisting and pushing it forward to reach and break up the obstruction.
• Use steady pressure, but avoid forcing the pipe if you feel strong resistance to prevent damaging the pipes.
• Once you’ve managed to loosen the blockage, pull the pipe out and remove any debris attached to it.

Flush the drain with plenty of water to clear away any remaining particles and check if water is draining smoothly. If the blockage persists, you may wish to try a wire coat hanger or consider getting professional assistance.

5. Chemical Drain Cleaners (Use with Caution)

Chemical drain cleaners can be effective in clearing blockages, but they should be used with caution due to their corrosive nature. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully and wear protective gear, including gloves and goggles. 

Pour the recommended amount of cleaner into the blocked drain and allow it to work for the specified time. Flush the drain thoroughly with water after use.

You can unblock stormwater drains easily with five simple methods. If the blockage continues or you don’t want to try DIY solutions, contact us. We use high-tech tools to clear your drains efficiently, ensuring minimal hassle for you.