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Maintenance Tips

Prevent Flooding and Harm with Autumn Leaf Clearance

April 28, 2024

Why Clearing Leaves Is Essential for Property Protection and Environmental Health

As the vibrant colors of autumn paint the landscapes of Canterbury, they bring with them a less welcome sight—fallen leaves clogging gutters and drains. While the fall of leaves marks a natural change in seasons, their accumulation in our gutters and pipes can lead to significant issues, not just for property owners but for the entire community and environment. Now, with the Environmental Canterbury (ECAN) actively auditing commercial properties to ensure compliance, it’s crucial to understand why keeping these areas clear is more important than ever.

Preventing Flooding and Property Damage

The most immediate concern with leaves accumulating in gutters and drains is the potential for flooding. As leaves block the natural flow of water, even moderate rainfall can quickly lead to water buildup, overflowing, and subsequent flooding. This not only risks property damage but can also disrupt business operations, leading to costly repairs and downtime. Regular sweeping of hardstand areas to clear away debris and leaves is essential to prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of properties.

Environmental Impact of Leaves in the Stormwater System

When leaves wash into the stormwater system, they don't just disappear. As these organic materials accumulate, they begin to decompose. This decomposition process consumes oxygen and releases methane—a potent greenhouse gas. Additionally, as leaves rot, they can leach nutrients into waterways, leading to algal blooms that further deplete oxygen in the water, harming aquatic life and disrupting ecosystems. Keeping our stormwater systems clear of leaves is thus not only a matter of local cleanliness and property maintenance but also of protecting our natural waterways and reducing our environmental footprint.

Compliance with Local Regulations

With ECAN now enforcing stricter controls and conducting audits around Canterbury, commercial and industrial property owners have a legal and social responsibility to keep their premises' stormwater drains clear of debris. Compliance not only avoids potential fines and legal issues but also aligns with broader community efforts to maintain environmental standards and protect our shared natural resources.

Utilizing Advanced Cleaning Technology for Environmental Responsibility

At CanSweep, we take a proactive approach to autumn leaf clearance through the use of advanced cleaning technologies that prioritize environmental responsibility. Our methods include:

  • Air Brooms: We deploy electric air brooms and trained operators to efficiently clear leaves and debris from critical areas such as around downpipes, bike stands, and building edges. This method ensures that all loose debris is carefully moved away from areas where it can accumulate and cause blockages.
  • Dedicated Operators: Our operators go the extra mile in ensuring that every area is meticulously cleared of leaves and debris. Their commitment and attention to detail ensure that even the most challenging areas are kept clean and free from debris.
  • Agile Sweeping Machines: The sweeping machines we utilize are small and agile, allowing them to navigate tight corners and hard-to-reach spaces. This capability is essential for thorough cleaning, ensuring that every corner is free from leaves and debris.
  • Early Morning Operations: Understanding the importance of minimal disruption, our teams start operations at 4am, particularly in car parks and high-traffic areas. This early start ensures that these spaces are clean and ready for use before cars and daily activities begin, demonstrating our commitment to service and efficiency.

By integrating these advanced tools and practices, CanSweep not only enhances the cleanliness of your commercial or industrial properties but also contributes to broader environmental protection efforts. Our commitment to using responsible cleaning techniques helps prevent potential flooding and environmental degradation, making us a leader in ecological stewardship within the cleaning industry.