If you’ve ever seen manhole covers spilling water after heavy rain or noticed murky water flowing into local streams, you’ve likely witnessed a Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) event. These overflows are a big problem in towns and cities because they can cause pollution and flooding.
In this blog, we’ll explore what is the role of StormTech in reducing CSO issues and why it’s becoming the preferred solution for engineers, developers, and local councils.
What is Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO)?
Before we go any further, let’s explain what a Combined Sewer Overflow actually is.
In many older urban areas, rainwater and sewage travel through the same pipes — this is called a combined sewer system. When the weather is dry, everything flows smoothly to a treatment plant. But during heavy rainfall, these pipes get overwhelmed.
To avoid flooding homes and streets, the system allows the excess mix of rainwater and raw sewage to overflow directly into rivers, lakes, or the sea without treatment. This is a Combined Sewer Overflow and it’s not great news for our environment or public health.
This is where StormTech comes in — offering an innovative way to manage excess stormwater and help prevent these harmful overflow events.
What is StormTech?
StormTech is a clever underground system made up of plastic chambers that store stormwater temporarily. Think of it like a giant underground sponge or a storage box for excess rainwater.
When heavy rain falls, instead of all that water rushing straight into the sewer system and causing it to overflow, StormTech holds back the water underground. Once the rain eases, the water is slowly released into the sewer system or allowed to soak into the ground safely.
It’s a smart way to stop sewers from flooding and keep our waterways cleaner.
What is the Role of StormTech in Reducing Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Issues?
Let’s break down the main ways StormTech helps tackle CSOs:
1. Storing Stormwater to Ease Sewer Pressure
StormTech acts like a big underground bucket that stores extra stormwater when it rains hard. This means less water floods the sewer system all at once, so treatment plants don’t get overwhelmed.
2. Helping Meet Environmental Rules
It helps developers and councils follow tough environmental rules by managing stormwater properly, making it easier to get planning permission without causing extra flood risk.
3. Improving Water Quality
StormTech isn’t just about holding water — it also helps clean it by letting dirt and debris settle out before the water moves on, which is really important in busy urban areas.
4. Saving Space and Cutting Costs
Because it’s underground, StormTech saves valuable space above ground for things like parks, roads, or parking — and its clever design means it’s quicker and cheaper to install compared to traditional drainage systems.
5. Supporting Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
StormTech fits perfectly with sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), which work with nature to slow, store, and clean rainwater right where it falls. This keeps flooding down and helps protect old sewer pipes.
Why Are CSOs Such a Big Problem?
It’s not just a bit of dirty water — CSOs cause some serious headaches:
- They pollute our rivers, lakes, and seas, harming fish, plants, and wildlife that rely on clean water.
- They can be a health risk, especially if polluted water reaches places where children play or people swim.
- With climate change bringing heavier rainstorms, these overflow events are happening more often and causing more damage.
- They can lead to big fines and hurt the reputation of local councils or developers.
Because of all this, finding smart ways to reduce CSOs is a priority for everyone planning and building in towns and cities.
How Does StormTech Compare to Traditional Drainage Solutions?
Traditional drainage options, like big concrete tanks or open basins, can be bulky, costly, and take up lots of valuable space above ground. StormTech’s smart, modular design means it fits neatly underground—even in tight or tricky spots—without messing with existing pipes or structures. This makes it a flexible and budget-friendly choice for modern urban projects where every bit of space counts.
How Easy Is It to Maintain StormTech Systems?
StormTech scores again when it comes to maintenance. Unlike some older drainage systems that can need expensive repairs or replacements over time, StormTech chambers are tough, built to last, and designed so inspections and cleaning are straightforward. That means fewer headaches and lower costs for homeowners and councils alike.
Conclusion
So, what is the role of StormTech in reducing CSO issues? Simply put, it’s about smarter stormwater management that protects people and the environment. By storing excess rainwater, improving water quality, saving space, and supporting sustainable development, StormTech offers a reliable way to reduce CSOs and their harmful effects.
Want to see how StormTech can work on your site? Contact us today.
Ready to Future Proof your Drainage System?
Want to see how StormTech can work on your site? Visit Resolute Civils today.
At Resolute Civils, we’re passionate about smart, sustainable drainage solutions. We’ve worked on many projects using StormTech — from new housing developments to commercial sites — and have seen how effective it is.
We know every site is different, so we offer tailored StormTech systems designed to meet your specific needs while sticking to local regulations.
Contact our expert team. We’re here to help you manage stormwater the right way — from the ground up.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO)?
A Combined Sewer Overflow happens when heavy rain overwhelms combined sewer systems that carry both sewage and rainwater, causing untreated wastewater to spill into local rivers, lakes, or seas, which can harm the environment and public health.
2. How does StormTech help reduce CSO events?
StormTech temporarily stores excess stormwater underground during heavy rainfall, easing pressure on sewer systems. It then slowly releases or infiltrates this water, preventing sewer overflows and reducing pollution risks.
3. Can StormTech systems improve water quality?
Yes, StormTech helps improve water quality by allowing sediment and debris to settle out before water is released, which helps reduce pollution entering natural waterways.
4. Is StormTech suitable for tight urban spaces?
Absolutely. StormTech’s modular underground design fits neatly into limited or tricky spaces without taking up valuable surface area, making it ideal for urban developments.
5. How does StormTech support sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)?
StormTech works as part of SuDS by managing rainwater close to where it falls, slowing runoff, promoting infiltration, and reducing flood risks, all while enhancing environmental sustainability.
6. What maintenance is required for StormTech systems?
StormTech chambers are designed for durability and easy maintenance. Regular inspections and cleaning are straightforward, helping to keep the system efficient and cost-effective over time.