Fall brings cooler temperatures—and a steady stream of leaves that can quickly overwhelm storm drain systems during the next downpour. When leaf debris collects in grates and channels, it restricts water flow, increases the chance of localized flooding, and can lead to additional problems such as standing water and roadway hazards.

While storm drains are designed to move rainfall away from streets and properties, they are not built to handle large volumes of organic material. Even moderate storms can expose weak points when drainage paths are already partially blocked.

Key warning signs of clogging

Residents and drivers should watch for early indicators that storm drains may be failing to handle runoff. Look for spots where water appears to linger longer than usual after rain, or where runoff seems to pool near curb lines and low-lying intersections.

Other signs include repeated &ld ... Read more »

Slow-draining sinks, recurring clogs, and musty smells are often blamed on hair or grease—but laundry lint is an underappreciated culprit. Tiny fibers shed from towels, synthetic fabrics, and everyday clothing can travel through washing machine drain lines and accumulate over time.

Lint traps offer a straightforward solution: they intercept loose fibers before they reach the plumbing system. The result is typically cleaner drains, fewer backups, and easier maintenance for homeowners.

Why laundry lint causes drain problems

When laundry is washed, fabric shedding is normal. Over repeated loads, lint can combine with soap residue and other debris, forming a sticky mat that narrows pipes. Even if water initially drains, gradual buildup can eventually trigger backups or require more aggressive cleaning.

This issue is especially common in households that frequently wash towels, fleece, or ... Read more »

Drain camera inspections are often the fastest way to understand what’s going on inside a pipe. By sending a small, waterproof camera through the line and reviewing the footage, plumbers and sewer professionals can identify many common causes of slow drains, backups, and foul odors.

Still, camera work has limits. What the operator can see—and how clearly—depends on pipe condition, access points, and whether the problem lies within the camera’s field of view.

What a drain camera inspection can typically tell you

In many cases, video inspection can confirm the location and likely cause of a problem. The clearest findings tend to involve things the camera can directly observe through the pipe wall and surrounding flow conditions.

Key items camera inspections commonly reveal include:

• Blockages and debris s ... Read more »

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Grease traps are designed to intercept fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before wastewater reaches municipal sewer systems or treatment facilities. But like any equipment, their effectiveness depends on maintenance. If cleaning is delayed too long, FOG can accumulate, reducing capacity, clogging plumbing, and increasing the risk of sanitary sewer backups.

There is no single “universal” interval for every business. Restaurants, food processors, and other commercial kitchens differ widely in how much grease they generate and how quickly. Many jurisdictions also set minimum requirements or require documentation of service to ensure compliance.

Why maintenance frequency matters

As grease trap contents build up, the trap’s ability to separate solids and liquids declines. When capacity is exceeded, grease can pass through or obstruct internal baffles and flow paths, leading to slow drains, recurring odor ... Read more »