One rather unpleasant but critical aspect of maintaining a property is ensuring that all drainage systems are functioning correctly. A common issue faced by many property owners is a manhole that overflows. It’s not only a nuisance but also a health hazard, causing unpleasant smells and potentially leading to property damage. Understanding the causes, identifying the symptoms, and knowing how to resolve and prevent such issues can save you a significant amount of stress and expense.
Overflowing manholes are typically a symptom of deeper issues within your drainage system that need immediate attention. This blog post will delve into the reasons behind overflowing manholes, how to troubleshoot them, and when it's time to call a professional.
Understanding Why Manholes Overflow
Blockages
The most common cause for manhole overflows is a blockage in the sewer lines. Blockages can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as flushing non-degradable items down the toilet, cooking grease buildup, or intrusion of tree roots into pipes.
Structural Issues
Another cause could be structural failures within the drainage system such as pipe collapses, cracks, or misalignments generally due to aging infrastructure or external pressures, possibly from nearby construction activities.
Excessive Water Flow
During heavy rain, the drainage system might be receiving more water than it can handle. If the manholes and connecting sewer lines are not designed to handle such volumes, overflow is a likely outcome.
Symptoms of a Potential Overflow Problem
Foul Odors
One of the earliest signs of a potential overflow is the presence of unpleasant odors emanating from the manhole or nearby drains.
Slow Drainage
If you notice that the water is draining slowly in sinks, showers, or toilets, there’s a possibility that this could be linked to the same issue affecting your manhole.
Water Backup
Any form of water backup, where water reverses direction and comes back up the drain, can indicate a blockage that might also be influencing your manhole.
Initial Troubleshooting You Can Perform
Visual Inspection
Carefully remove the manhole cover and inspect for visible blockages close to the surface. Always ensure you’re wearing appropriate protective gear and never attempt to enter a manhole.
Clear Minor Blockages
If you spot a blockage and it’s within reach, try to clear it with a rod or a plumber's snake. Be cautious when attempting to remove blockages, as pushing them deeper could exacerbate the problem.
When to Call a Professional
If the blockage is not visible or if you’re unable to clear it easily, it’s time to call in a professional. Drainage systems are complex, and the blockage or damage might be in a section of the pipe you cannot access.
Professional plumbers or drainage experts have specialised tools like CCTV cameras to inspect pipes internally and high-pressure water jetting systems which can remove most blockages quickly and effectively.
Long-term Preventative Measures
Regular Maintenance
Schedule regular inspections and cleaning of your drainage system. This can help catch issues like small blockages or cracks before they lead to an overflow.
Watch What You Flush
Avoid flushing anything aside from pee, poo, and toilet paper. Items like wet wipes, feminine hygiene products, and cooking grease should never enter your sewage system.
Gutter and Drain Clearance
Keep gutters, downpipes, and surface grate drains clear of leaves and debris, especially before heavy rain, to ensure maximum drainage capacity.
Conclusion
An overflowing manhole is a clear sign of an underlying issue within your drainage system. By taking a proactive approach to maintenance and being mindful of what goes down your drains, most overflow events can be avoided. If troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, don't hesitate to call in the experts. It's better to tackle these problems early on than to deal with the aftermath of a full-blown drain emergency. Remember, maintaining a healthy drainage system not only protects your property but also ensures a hygienic environment for everyone.
