/ Blog / By

High-Pressure Drain Cleaning SOP: French and Lanai Drains

Close-up of a hydro-jetting tip spraying water
A close-up view of a hydro-jetting tip in action, spraying high-pressure water for effective cleaning.

Maintaining French drains and lanai drains in Clearwater, FL with high-pressure drain cleaning is crucial to prevent water damage, especially during Florida’s rainy season. This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) covers the proper techniques, safety tips, and recommended equipment for effectively cleaning these types of drains using high-pressure water.

Scope of Work: French Drains and Lanai Drains

Our high-pressure cleaning services for French drains and lanai drains aim to clear these drainage systems of any obstructions, such as leaves, roots, and dirt, ensuring smooth water flow. While high-pressure drain cleaning is effective for most clogs, severe root intrusion may require additional solutions beyond hydro jetting. In such cases, roots embedded deep in the system could need specialized cutting tools or even manual removal. If roots or blockages are too severe for this method, we will discuss alternative solutions with the client.

Drain Types:

  • French Drains: Designed to divert water away from a property’s foundation, preventing water buildup and erosion.
  • Pool Lanai Drains / Mini-Channel Drains: Installed around pool decks or patios to channel water away from outdoor living areas, helping to avoid flooding and damage.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

1. Pre-Cleaning Inspection

  • Assess Drainage Function: Ensure the drains are visibly clear of large debris that could obstruct water flow. Walk the property to check for areas of standing water or water damage.
  • Inspect Drain Openings: Make sure there are no structural damages to the drain openings or grates.
  • Clear the Area: Remove outdoor furniture, potted plants, or any obstacles around the drains that could be damaged by water spray.
French drain clogged with leaves
A French drain blocked by a buildup of leaves, preventing proper water drainage.

2. Surface Preparation

  • Assess Water Flow Path: Evaluate the best path for water to flow away from the drain exit. This may involve removing rocks, mulch, or dirt that obstructs the water’s path. In some cases, you may need to dig a shallow trench to direct water away from the property. This ensures that water flows freely without pooling around the drain.
Clogged French drain connected to a gutter downspout, dug out and exposed in Clearwater, FL
A clogged French drain connected to a gutter downspout in Clearwater, FL, shown dug out and exposed to address the blockage.

3. High-Pressure Cleaning Procedure

We begin the cleaning process at the exit point of the drain and work our way through the entire drainage system. This allows us to methodically clear debris from the system and ensures all blockages are removed.

  • Access Points: In some cases, we may need to drill or create access points along the drainage system to reach areas that are heavily clogged or inaccessible. However, we will always try to avoid this when possible. Any drilling or modifications will be reviewed with the customer before proceeding.
  • Cleaning Process: Using a specialized drain-cleaning nozzle (such as a rotary jet nozzle or sewer jetter), we guide the hose through the system to safely break apart debris, dirt, and roots, while protecting the integrity of the pipes.
  • Testing and Final Inspection: After the cleaning, we will test the system by running water through the drains to ensure proper flow. We will then review the results with the client, addressing any potential issues encountered during the cleaning process, such as damaged pipes or hard-to-remove roots.
French drain receiving high-pressure drain cleaning maintenance
A French drain being cleaned with high-pressure water, effectively clearing debris and restoring proper drainage.

Safety Tips for High-Pressure Drain Cleaning

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
    • Safety goggles to prevent debris from entering the eyes.
    • Non-slip, water-resistant shoes.
    • Waterproof gloves to protect hands during cleaning.
  • Electrical Hazards:
    Be cautious of any nearby electrical outlets or equipment. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination—keep electrical components dry and far from the cleaning area.
  • Safe Distance from Nozzle:
    Always maintain a safe distance from the drain to prevent injury or damage to the property. Avoid pointing the high-pressure hose at yourself or others.
  • Wet Surface Caution:
    After cleaning, surfaces may become slippery. Use caution when walking around the area to avoid falls.

Recommended Equipment for French and Lanai Drain Cleaning

    1. Pressure Washer: A powerful pressure washer with the appropriate PSI and GPM settings.
    2. Pressure Washer Gun: A pressure washer gun to control the water flow safely and efficiently.
    3. 200′ Pressure Washer Hose: Long enough to cover wide areas and provide flexibility during the cleaning process.
    4. 100′ Sewer Jetter Hose: Specialized for drain cleaning, this hose can navigate through tight pipes to clear blockages.
    5. Sewer Jetter Nozzles: These nozzles provide high-pressure, focused cleaning, specifically designed to handle blockages like roots and dirt.
    6. 100′ Garden Hose: Essential for supplying water to the pressure washer during the operation.

    Why Regular High-Pressure Drain Cleaning is Crucial

    Neglecting your French drains or pool lanai drains can result in costly damage. Blocked drains can lead to:

    • Water Damage: Accumulated water around your home can cause cracks and erosion, weakening the foundation.
    • Flooding: Blocked lanai drains may cause flooding around your pool, damaging outdoor furniture and pool decks.
    • Mosquitos: Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and it’s important to get rid of it to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
    • Odors: Standing water in clogged drains can lead to foul smells, affecting the comfort of your outdoor space.

    Regular cleaning with high-pressure water ensures that your drains continue to operate efficiently, preventing these issues.

    Conclusion: Protect Your Home with Regular Drain Maintenance

    By following these Standard Operating Procedures, you’ll ensure your French drains and pool lanai drains stay clear and function efficiently. Tampa Bay Soft Wash & Pressure Cleaning offers expert high-pressure drain cleaning services that help you avoid expensive repairs and water damage.

    Schedule your next drain cleaning service today, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is well-protected from Clearwater’s heavy rainfall.

    Hopefully, this blog helped you! If it did, we would really appreciate a like on Facebook! Check back here at www.tbsoftwash.com to learn more about professional soft washing and pressure cleaning and you can also follow us on all of the major social media platforms @tbsoftwash and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!

    Disclosure: Links contain affiliates. When you buy through one of our links we will receive a small commission that is at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting Tampa Bay Soft Wash & Pressure Cleaning and allowing us to continue to bring you content.