What to Do During Winter to Prevent Blocked Drains

As winter approaches, it's essential to take proactive measures to prevent blocked drains. Clogged drains can lead to water backups, flooding, and costly repairs. To prevent winter and blocked drains problems, you should prepare your home's drainage system by clearing leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts, inspecting and repairing damaged gutters, installing gutter guards or screens, trimming overhanging tree branches, and checking downspouts for proper flow.

How Often Should Storm Drains Be Cleaned to Prevent Clogging During Winter?

Storm drains should be cleaned at least twice yearly, typically in the fall and spring. However, during winter, it's a good idea to check and clear storm drains more frequently, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt.

Preparing for Winter: Get Ahead of the Game

Before the winter season hits, take the time to prepare your home's drainage system. Preparation will help prevent clogs and ensure your drains function properly during heavy rain or snowmelt.

Clear leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts. Clear any accumulated debris to guarantee that the water flows properly.
Inspect and repair any damaged or loose gutters. Ensure that gutters are securely attached to your home and are not sagging or pulling away.
Install gutter guards or screens. These can help prevent large debris from entering your gutters and downspouts.
Trim overhanging tree branches. Cut back any branches that hang over your roof or gutters to reduce the amount of debris that can fall into your drainage system.
Check your downspouts. Ensure that downspouts are securely attached and not clogged, allowing water to flow freely.

Actions to Take When Winter Comes In: Stay Vigilant

During the winter season, monitor your drains and take action if you notice any issues. Here are some steps to follow:

Monitor your drains. Keep an eye on your drains during heavy rain or snowmelt to ensure they properly function.
Clear any visible debris from storm drains. Use a rake or shovel to remove leaves, twigs, or other debris blocking the drain.
Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. Grease and oil can solidify and cause clogs, especially in cold weather.
Use a drain screen or filter. Install a drain screen or filter to catch hair, soap, and other debris before they enter your pipes.

Dos and Don'ts: Essential Guidelines

When dealing with clogged drains, follow the appropriate procedures to avoid causing further damage. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

Use a drain snake or plunger to clear blockages. If a drain becomes blocked, use a plunger or drain snake to dislodge the clog.
Don't use chemical drain cleaners. These can harm the environment and damage your pipes.
Use a garden hose to flush drains. After clearing a clog, use a garden hose to flush the drain and ensure water flows freely.
Don't ignore clogs. Clear blockages ASAP to avoid more damage and expensive repairs.

Safety Precautions When Clearing Drains During a Storm

When clearing drains during a storm, it's crucial to prioritise your safety. Here are some precautions to take:

Wear appropriate clothing. Wear waterproof boots and gloves to protect yourself from the elements.
Be cautious of standing water. Avoid standing in deep or fast-moving water, as it can be dangerous.
Work with a partner. If possible, have someone assist you when clearing drains during a storm.
Use proper lifting techniques. Lift heavy objects carefully to avoid straining your back.

Tools to Use for Clearing Drains During Winter

When clearing drains, get the right tools for the job. Here are some tools you should have on hand:

Plunger. Use a plunger to dislodge clogs in sinks and toilets.
Drain snake. A drain snake or a plumber's snake can clear more stubborn clogs.
Garden hose. It flushes the drains and removes debris.
Drain cleaning products. Use eco-friendly drain cleaning products that are safe for your pipes and the environment.

Natural Remedies to Prevent Clogged Drains During Winter

In addition to using traditional tools and products, there are several natural remedies you can use to prevent clogged drains during the winter:

Baking soda and vinegar. Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by boiling water, to help break down organic matter and prevent clogs.
Lemon peels. Grind lemon peels in your garbage disposal to help freshen and clean your drains.
Hot water. Run hot water through your drains regularly to help dissolve grease and other debris.

Additional Tips and Considerations

In addition to the tips outlined above, there are several other essential things to consider when it comes to preventing clogged drains during the winter:

Hire a professional. If you encounter a persistent or difficult-to-clear clog, hire a professional plumber to resolve the problem safely and effectively.
Maintain your drainage system. Regular gutter and downspout maintenance can help prevent clogs and extend the life of your drainage system.
Check your insurance policy. Review your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage in case of a drainage-related emergency.

Winter Drain Defense

You can help prevent clogged drains during the winter and keep your house dry and safe by using these suggestions and being proactive. To avoid expensive repairs and possible damage to your property, always be on the lookout for problems and take quick action to resolve them.