When it comes to effective surface water drainage systems, EasyDRAIN is one of the best on the market. With easy, click-together installation and made from high-quality recycled polymer, you can trust that these drainage systems are built to last.
However, despite their durability, things can still go wrong over time, especially if they’re not maintained properly. This can be anything from blockages or even damage from heavy traffic. But, don’t stress, because this guide will help you troubleshoot your EasyDRAIN by exploring the common issues, causes and maintenance you can take to keep your drain working like new.
Introducing EasyDRAIN
Our EasyDRAIN systems are designed to suit all residential and commercial drainage needs, providing efficient surface water drainage and enhanced durability and reliability. Our EasyDRAIN systems come in three designs: Standard, Compact and Edge. These systems have their own benefits and uses, but the troubleshooting is similar.
All of our EasyDRAIN systems are designed and manufactured right here in Australia from strong recycled polymer and tested to withstand our unique and harsh conditions. This means you shouldn’t have any issues, but it’s best to be prepared for any unlikely and unexpected issues anyway.
Common Issues & Causes
Blockages
The most common issue you may encounter with any surface drainage system, including the EasyDRAIN, is clogging. As fast-flowing water can easily carry leaves, small twigs or branches, dirt and rubbish, it is possible for the drainage system to become clogged. While the grate should catch most of this debris, some can slip through.
However, blockages can usually be easily managed by clearing out your drains and grate regularly to promote smooth water flow.
Structural Damage
Another common issue drainage systems can face is structural damage. While our EasyDRAIN Standard is designed to withstand both pedestrian and vehicular traffic up to 1.5-tonne wheel loads, they can still become damaged if the weight goes above the suggested rating. Also, if something excessively heavy is placed on part of the grate it can cause it to buckle or crack under the pressure.
If you notice any signs of stress or damage along your drains or grate, it’s important to address it quickly and replace the section as necessary or at least monitor it when walking or driving over it in the future.
Lack of Water Flow
One other issue you may encounter with drainage systems is a lack of water flow. If you notice that the water in your drain is not flowing away as quickly or smoothly as it should, it could be a sign that there isn’t enough slope or that there is a blockage downstream. If you can’t find a blockage, the issue is likely the slope.
To fix the slope, you will need to dig your trench deeper and reinstall the drainage on the correct incline. We recommend sloping down at a ratio of 1cm for every 1m of channel for best results.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
To avoid these issues with your EasyDRAIN systems, it is recommended to enact some regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. This includes regular inspections for damage and blockages along with cleaning out any debris that is caught in the grate or pits.
Start by sweeping the area around the drain to keep debris away from the drain and then using gloves, remove any leaves, branches or other rubbish or debris that is caught in the grates or pipes and dispose of it properly in a bin. You can then hose out the drain to clear away any remaining dirt that isn’t big enough to remove and leave your drain clean and ready to protect your property from the next storm.
Also, don’t forget to thoroughly check your drains and grate for stress cracks or marks that could get worse over time. If you frequently drive heavy loads over your drain it may be subject to wear and tear that will require replacements of overworked sections. This, however, won’t happen quickly, it’s something that will occur slowly over years of frequent use. But it’s still important to be aware and keep a check so you can catch it before it gets bad.
Finally, if you suspect an issue such as a blockage, but can’t find the cause, you may need to contact a professional plumber or drainage expert to check your drains and pipelines for hidden blockages down the line.
Protect Your EasyDRAIN with Troubleshooting Tips
By understanding the common issues that drainage systems face, what causes them and how to fix and avoid them, you can keep your EasyDRAIN systems working at a high standard to protect your property from flooding or water damage from sitting water.
Explore our range of EasyDRAIN systems to learn more about how to choose the best system for your residential or commercial property and keep it functioning as it should.