“How often should I clear area drains?” is a question we receive a lot during the rainy season. Clearing your area drains is an important part of maintaining the integrity of your property’s drainage system. It’s recommended to clear your area drains at least once a year, and more frequently if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or foliage. It’s also a good idea to check your area drains after heavy storms to ensure they are clear and functioning properly.
Clear Area Drains At Least Yearly

The area drains are the openings that you can see on the surface of the ground, which are connected to an underground drainage system. They are designed to collect and channel water away from your property, preventing water damage and flooding. However, over time, debris, leaves, and other materials can accumulate in the drain, blocking the flow of water and causing problems.
Cleaning your area drains can prevent clogs and blockages that can lead to water damage and flooding. Clearing debris and leaves from the drain can help ensure that water flows freely through the drainage system, reducing the risk of water damage to your property. Regular maintenance of your area drains can also help prevent pests and rodents from entering your home and causing damage.
The best time to clear your area drains is during the fall when leaves are falling, or in the spring when the snow melts. These seasons are when the most debris is likely to collect in your drains. However, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or foliage, you may need to clear your drains more frequently. For example, if you live in an area with lots of trees, it’s a good idea to clear your drains every couple of months to prevent clogs from forming.
You can clear your area drains by using a hose to flush out debris and leaves, or by using a specialized drain cleaning tool. When using a hose, make sure to direct the water towards the drain opening and flush out any debris or leaves that may have accumulated. You can also use a specialized drain cleaning tool to remove debris and blockages. These tools are often equipped with a flexible cable that can be inserted into the drain to break up and remove clogs.
It’s important to be cautious when cleaning your area drains, as some chemicals and tools can be harmful to the environment. Always use safe and appropriate cleaning methods and products, and avoid pouring chemicals down the drain. You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar as a natural cleaning solution to clear your drains.
In addition, if you have a serious blockage or if the water is not flowing freely through the drainage system, it’s best to call a professional plumber to help you with the cleaning. They will have the right tools and expertise to safely and effectively clear your area drains. They can also inspect the drainage system to identify any potential issues and make recommendations for repairs or upgrades if needed.
Regular maintenance to clear area drains is important to prevent water damage and flooding. Clean area drains at least once a year and after heavy storms to help ensure that they are functioning properly and that water flows freely through the drainage system. It’s also important to be aware of any signs of blockages or clogs, such as slow draining water, water backing up, or a foul smell coming from the drain. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action as soon as possible to prevent a serious problem from developing.
It’s also important to keep in mind that your area drains are part of a larger drainage system that includes gutters, downspouts, and underground drainage pipes. It’s important to keep all of these components in good condition to ensure that water flows freely away from your property and prevent water damage.
Finally, it’s also important to keep in mind that your area drains are part of a larger drainage system that includes gutters, downspouts, and underground drainage pipes. It’s important to keep all of these components in good condition to ensure that water flows freely away from your property and prevent water damage.
If it’s time for your annual area drain cleaning, or your area drains aren’t flowing properly, please don’t hesitate to call. As top rated local plumbers, it’s our goal to be your plumbing team mates. We recommend planned and scheduled maintenance to prevent the need for emergency services, but rest assured, we’re available anytime, rain or shine, even on holidays and weekends. Call us at 626.448.6455