Clogging may occur when solid particles form a film on the filter's surface or accumulate within the media channels to the point where the channels become occluded. Clogging can decrease the effectiveness of a filter. As the filter becomes [[clogging|clogged]], higher pressure is needed to drive stormwater through the filter, until a point is reached at which flow through the treatment system must be redirected to another flow path (usually a [[overflow|bypass]] within or upstream of the system).
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[[Inspections and maintenance#Practice-specific Inspection and Maintenance|Practice-specific maintenance guides]] are available for each LID BMP. General maintenance considerations for filter-based LIDs include:
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*'''Inspection and maintenance frequency''': Routine inspections and maintenance are needed to assess and resolve issues, such as [[Sedimentation|sediment]] buildup. [[Maintenance, Rehabilitation and Repair|Frequency of visits]] depends on a variety of factors. LID BMP designs should include safe access for maintenance and inspection crews and confined space entry procedures should be considered for subsurface systems.
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*'''Sediment removal''': Filters can become [[clogging|clogged]] with sediment, organic material, and trash, reducing flow capacity and treatment performance. When solid particles form a film on the filter's surface or accumulate within the media channels, higher pressure is needed to drive stormwater through the filter. Eventually, a point is reached at which flow through the treatment system must be redirected to another flow path (usually a bypass within or upstream of the system). Vacuuming or manual removal of accumulated materials may be required.
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*'''Media replacement''': Filter bed media can lose effectiveness over time due to clogging, chemical saturation, erosion, animal burrows, and compaction. Media may need to be replaced, regraded, or core aerated.
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*'''Overflow Bypass Functionality''': Ensure [[overflow|bypass]] structures are functioning to prevent flooding or erosion when filters are clogged or overwhelmed by large runoff events.