Troubleshooting Tips for Lawn and Landscape Drainage
You’ve already taken a huge step toward protecting your property by having a proper drainage system in place. With some simple upkeep, you can preserve your drainage investment and manage stormwater effectively for years to come. Here are 4 best practices for maintaining your drainage system so it keeps performing at its best.
Atrium grate in a landscaped area
#1. Keep debris out with drain grates
Drain grates are the first line of defense against pipe-clogging debris and are available in a variety of models to fit drain pipes, low-profile adapters, catch basins, and catch basin risers. Use these drain grates to cover pipes and fittings:
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Atrium grates work best in landscaped or natural areas, mulched flowerbeds, and window wells. The domed design rises above the surface of the ground to block leaves, mulch, and other debris near the base of the grate while allowing stormwater to drain through the top.
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Flat grates are ideal for lawns and landscapes to prevent tripping and, in the case of lawns, interference with lawnmowers. NDS has a wide selection of square grates and round grates to suit the needs of your property. Complement the look of your landscaping with decorative designs and multiple options for materials and finishes, from classic green plastic to stylish polished brass and sturdy ductile iron.
Catch basin filter after cleaning
#2. Inspect catch basins and drain pipes for clogs
As part of your drainage system, catch basins capture excess water at low points in your lawn/ landscape, under downspouts, near your home’s foundation, and more. They should be inspected regularly, especially before and after significant rain events to ensure the system can effectively manage the volume of stormwater.
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Check the inlet grate and clear debris from grate openings.
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Remove grate to inspect inside the drain pipe or catch basin.
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Check the catch basin sump area where debris from stormwater flow can settle, and remove collected debris at least twice a year. Clean more frequently if runoff carries a lot of debris.
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If using a catch basin filter, remove it and shake out loose debris. Wash the filter with a hose if it appears clogged with silt or clay.
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Check the drain pipes beneath the grate or outletting from the catch basin. If you have trouble seeing due to the angle of piping, try using your phone camera to take a picture.
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Remove any debris from the piping with a plumbing snake.
Pop-up emitter discharging water
#3. Give pop-up drain emitters a quick check-up
Pop-up emitters work at the low point of the drainage system to discharge water collected from upstream with a component such as a catch basin, channel drain, or subsurface foundation drain. A clogged pop-up emitter can back up the drainage system.
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Check the area around the pop-up emitter to make sure growth of turf grass is not preventing it from popping up properly; if so, cut and remove the turf mat away from the base flange.
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Remove the pop-up cover and clear any debris that can clog the cover.
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Check the drain pipe underneath the emitter and remove any debris from the piping with a plumbing snake.
Dry well installed in a front lawn
#4. Remove debris and buildup from dry wells
Gravel dry wells and engineered systems such as the NDS® Flo-Well® dry well provide temporary detention and infiltration of collected stormwater runoff. Flo-Well dry well systems with a surface drain inlet enable visibility into the well. For the Flo-Well dry well:
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Clear away leaves and debris that have accumulated around the inlet grate.
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Remove the surface drain inlet to check for any visible debris.
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Push a garden hose into the opening and use it to break up and flush away compacted sediment. The water will work itself out through the perforated holes in the dry well.
Whether you add a note to your calendar or set a phone reminder, regular maintenance of your drainage system will help keep it running smoothly—reducing your risk of runoff problems and costly damage.
