Summer in Prescott Valley, AZ, isn’t just about sunshine and higher temperatures. It’s also monsoon season, bringing frequent heavy rains, high winds, and potential challenges for local businesses. One particularly overlooked concern for commercial properties during monsoons is the strain on sewer systems. Flooding and sewer backups pose real operational and financial risks for businesses.
Understanding how these storms can impact your commercial sewer system is key to preventing problems. With the right approach, including timely sewer drain cleaning and routine maintenance, you can minimize disruptions and protect your business.
How Monsoon Storms Affect Sewer Systems in Prescott Valley
Prescott Valley’s monsoon season typically runs from June through September, bringing sudden and heavy rainfall. While the rain is a welcome relief from the summer heat, it can overwhelm aging sewer systems, particularly in commercial properties.
Flooding From Excess Runoff
Heavy rains create a large volume of stormwater runoff. If the city’s drainage infrastructure experiences high demand, water can backflow into your property’s sewer lines. This can lead to slow-moving drains or complete backups, especially if the sewer pipes are already partially blocked.
Blockages from Debris
Stormwater picks up debris like leaves, branches, dirt, and trash. Commercial properties with outdoor areas, like parking lots or patios, are particularly vulnerable to this debris ending up in sewer drains. This buildup can clog the system and obstruct wastewater flow.
Damage from Aging or Compromised Pipes
Excess moisture from heavy rains can expose weaknesses in older or damaged sewer pipes. Cracks, weak joints, or misaligned pipes are more likely to fail under the pressure, causing leaks or collapses. This is especially problematic in commercial properties where larger volumes of water and waste are handled.
5 Strategies to Prevent Sewer Backups During Monsoon Season
The good news? Many of these costly and disruptive issues can be avoided with preventative measures. Here are practical strategies to help protect your commercial property’s sewer system during monsoon season.
1. Schedule a Professional Sewer Drain Cleaning
Sewer drain cleaning is one of the best ways to ensure your system operates efficiently when heavy rains arrive. Clearing out buildup like grease, scale, and debris helps water flow freely, even during sudden downpours. Summer is an ideal time to schedule this service before monsoon storms hit full force.
A professional drain cleaning service uses advanced techniques like hydro jetting to remove stubborn clogs, ensuring your system is in top condition.
2. Inspect and Maintain Your Sewer Lines
Routine inspections can reveal cracks, blockages, or other potential problems before they turn into emergencies. A video camera inspection is particularly effective in spotting vulnerabilities within your sewer pipes that might get worse with heavy rainfall.
Schedule regular maintenance with a trusted plumbing professional to stay ahead of potential failures. They’ll check for small issues, like tree root intrusion or pipe misalignment, that could lead to bigger problems under storm pressure.
3. Install Flood Prevention Devices
If your commercial property frequently experiences backups, consider installing a backwater valve. This device blocks waste and stormwater from re-entering your property through sewer lines, offering an extra layer of protection.
Stormwater grates and trench drain systems can also help manage surface runoff, redirecting it away from your building’s foundation and sewer lines.
4. Clear Outdoor Drainage Areas
Your property’s outdoor landscaping and drainage areas play a key role in sewer health. Regularly remove debris like leaves, grass clippings, and trash from surrounding drains, grates, and gutters. Consider investing in professional outdoor maintenance services to ensure runoff is efficiently directed away from your sewer system.
5. Prepare for Emergencies
Even with preventative measures in place, emergencies can happen. Create an action plan for responding to major storm events. Ensure your property manager or maintenance team knows the location of sewer cleanouts and emergency shut-off valves. Having a trusted, trained plumber on speed dial ensures you can quickly address issues before they escalate.
Why Regular Maintenance Benefits Commercial Properties Year-Round
Aside from avoiding the risks of monsoon-related flooding and backups, regular sewer system maintenance offers year-round benefits for commercial properties. Functional drain systems can improve overall efficiency, reduce repair costs, and extend the lifespan of your infrastructure. Plus, keeping everything in top shape means you’ll avoid the financial losses and reputational damage that come with plumbing emergencies disrupting your operations.
When to Call the Experts
If you notice early warning signs like slow drains, foul odors, or unusual gurgling noises during and after rainstorms, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. A professional assessment can identify and resolve issues quickly.
For commercial properties in Prescott Valley, expert plumbing services from Mr. Rooter Plumbing® of Yavapai, Coconino, and Maricopa Counties are a must during Arizona’s monsoon season. Plumbers experienced in handling local conditions and unique commercial challenges can help keep your property running smoothly, rain or shine.
Protect Your Business Now
Don’t let monsoon storms catch your property off guard. By investing in professional sewer drain cleaning and adopting preventative strategies, you’ll protect your business from the costly and disruptive effects of backups and flooding during Prescott Valley’s rainy season.
Whether you need a detailed inspection, a full-scale drain cleaning, or emergency assistance, be sure you’re working with trusted professionals who put your business first.
Contact us for commercial plumbing services and let us help you prepare to enjoy peace of mind when the next storm rolls in.
