Why Testing and Clearing Your Stormwater Drains Before Winter Is So Important
As Melbourne enters its wettest season, blocked or sluggish stormwater drains can quickly turn into a homeowner’s nightmare. Stormwater systems are designed to move rainwater away from your roof, driveway, and property — but if they’re blocked, cracked, or full of debris, they can overflow or back up, causing serious damage.
At Pro-Action Plumbing, we see stormwater issues spike every winter — and most of them could be avoided with a simple pre-season check. Here’s why it’s worth getting your stormwater system tested and cleared before the heavy rain hits.
What Is a Stormwater Drain?
Stormwater drains are different from your sewer system. While sewer drains handle waste from toilets and sinks, stormwater drains carry rainwater runoff from your roof gutters, driveways, and outdoor surfaces to the street or a soakage pit.
These systems are essential for:
- Preventing pooling and flooding in your yard
- Protecting your home’s foundation from water damage
- Reducing moisture and mould issues around walls and basements
- Complying with council drainage requirements
The Winter Problem
Winter brings:
- Increased rainfall and storms
- More debris (like leaves and branches)
- Saturated soil, which makes overflow worse
If your stormwater system is blocked or partially clogged, it may not cope with the volume of rain that winter brings. This can lead to:
- Flooding near entryways and garages
- Water pooling around the house perimeter
- Water seepage into basements, subfloors, or slab edges
- Damage to landscaping or outdoor areas
- Increased pressure on your guttering and downpipes
Signs Your Stormwater Drain Might Be Blocked
- Water pooling near downpipes after it rains
- Gurgling or bubbling sounds from outdoor drains
- Overflowing gutters during moderate rainfall
- Moss or algae growth near drain covers
- Bad smells or signs of water backing up
What’s Involved in Stormwater Testing and Clearing?
A professional plumber can perform a stormwater system test and clean using advanced tools to diagnose and fix issues before they cause damage. This typically involves:
- Visual inspection of downpipes, pits, and surface drains
- Pressure testing the stormwater lines for slow flow or backflow
- Jet blasting or high-pressure water cleaning to clear blockages
- Camera inspections to identify cracks, breaks, or root intrusions
- Recommendations for repairs or upgrades if your system is outdated or undersized
Prevention Is Cheaper Than Repairs
Ignoring blocked stormwater drains might save money in the short term, but it can lead to expensive consequences like:
- Property flooding
- Structural damage
- Insurance claims that may not be covered if the system wasn’t maintained
Regular checks — especially before and after winter — are a small investment in protecting your property long-term.
Why Choose Pro-Action Plumbing?
Our experienced team specialises in stormwater system inspections, testing, and maintenance across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. We service areas like Ringwood, Croydon, Doncaster, Lilydale, Mitcham, and beyond.
We use advanced tools like:
- CCTV drain cameras
- High-pressure jetting machines
- Leak detection and flow testing equipment
And most importantly — we take the time to explain what’s going on and how to prevent future issues.
Book a Stormwater Check Today
Melbourne winters are wet — and getting wetter. Make sure your home is protected with a pre-winter stormwater test and clean.
Contact Pro-Action Plumbing today to book a service or inspection. Our local, licensed team is here to help keep your home dry, safe, and stress-free all winter long.