Catch basins are an important part of your stormwater management system. Yet, most people are unfamiliar with them and unsure how to maintain them. Here's what you need to know.

What are catch basins?

Catch basins are designed to collect rainwater and runoff from your property and release it into the sewer system. Catch basins must be regularly cleaned and maintained to prevent them from becoming clogged and overflowing.

What is a storm drain?

A storm drain is a type of catch basin that is larger and designed to handle large volumes of water. Storm drains are typically located at the edge of a road or parking lot and collect water from the surrounding area.

Why is it essential to keep catch basins and storm drains clean?

Catch basin cleaning is important because it helps to prevent water from backing up onto your property, causing flooding and water damage. It also helps to keep the storm sewer system functioning properly and prevents pollutants from entering the waterways.

How are catch basins cleaned?

Catch basins are typically cleaned by a combination of vacuuming and hydro jetting. Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to remove stubborn debris and build-up from catch basins and pipes.

What are the benefits of catch basin cleaning?

Catch basin cleaning offers several benefits, including:

• Reduced flooding
• Reduced water damage
• Improved storm sewer system function
• Prevention of pollution

What should you never put down a catch basin or storm drain?

It is important never to pour pollutants down a storm drain, as this can contaminate the waterways. Some common pollutants include oil, grease, paint, pesticides, antifreeze, and cleaning chemicals. Additionally, you should never pour leftover concrete or asphalt down a storm drain, as this can clog the system and cause flooding.

How often should catch basins be cleaned?

Catch basins should be cleaned regularly, typically every few years. However, the frequency of cleaning may need to be increased if the catch basin is located in an area with a high traffic volume or if it becomes clogged more frequently.

How do you maintain catch basins and storm drains between cleanings?

Between catch basin cleanings, you can help to prevent clogs and flooding by doing the following:

• Sweeping up leaves, grass, and debris from around the catch basin
• Picking up litter and trash around the catch basin
• Keeping gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris
• Disposing of oil, grease, and chemicals properly

Contact a catch basin service, such as CatchAll Environmental, to learn more.