Key Differences and Benefits

Rainstopper manhole inflow inserts

At Rainstopper, we build manhole inflow inserts that do what they’re supposed to: keep stormwater and debris out of municipal sewer systems. For over 50 years, we’ve focused on solving I&I problems with straightforward, proven solutions – no gimmicks, no overselling, just reliable protection backed by patents, warranties, and three generations of hands-on experience.

What makes us different isn’t complicated: precision manufacturing, no minimum orders, custom solutions when you need them, and products built to last with minimal maintenance. Every insert is Made in the USA and designed to deliver measurable results from day one.

 

The Benefits of the Rainstopper Manhole Inflow Protector

  • No minimum orders – Whether you need one insert or one thousand, we accommodate projects of any size. Every project matters.
  • Lower total costs – No maintenance for the life of the product.
  • Easy implementation – Simple installation with low labor requirements.
  • Proven longevity – Backed by a 15-year warranty and more than 40 years of industry trust.
  • Versatility – A wide array of models means there’s no manhole we can’t service.
  • Full range – Available in both stainless steel and HDPE to meet every need.
  • Integrity in action – Every product and interaction reflects our core values.


Real-World Challenges We Solve

Rainstopper manhole inflow inserts are designed for communities facing high-stakes wastewater challenges. Our solutions help municipalities and contractors address:

  • Tight wastewater budgets – Reduce treatment and maintenance costs with proven inflow prevention.
  • High SSO (Sanitary Sewer Overflow) rates – Eliminate stormwater intrusion that overwhelms collection systems.
  • Safety and security risks – Prevent cover displacement, odors, and gas buildup that threaten crews and the public.
  • EPA violations and compliance pressure – Maintain regulatory standards and avoid costly penalties tied to I&I.
  • Corrosion and odor – Control hydrogen sulfide emissions and protect infrastructure.
  • Manhole “blow-offs” during storms – Relieve pressure safely through patented, non-mechanical relief valves that prevent vacuum lock and ensure consistent access.
  • Snow and surface hazards – Flush-fit stainless design protects against plow strikes and trip risks on sidewalks, parking lots, and ADA zones.
  • Long-term performance needs – Corrosion-resistant materials, patented ribs, and 50-year options built for decades of reliability.

Product Options and Key Features

Rainstopper manhole inflow inserts are available in two precision-engineered designs: stainless steel and HDPE (plastic), each built for specific performance environments. Both deliver the same commitment to quality, innovation, and long-term reliability trusted by municipalities nationwide.


Stainless Steel Inserts

Rainstopper stainless steel manhole inserts are built to withstand demanding municipal environments. Each insert is manufactured from 18-gauge (1/16″) corrosion-resistant stainless steel.

Key Features:

  • Flush-fit installation (1/8″) – Prevents damage from plows, wheelchairs, or foot traffic in ADA and high-traffic areas.
  • Patented ribbed pan – Adds structural strength and prevents deformation under heavy loads.
  • Patented Nitrile Gas Relief Plug – Non-mechanical design resists breakage and corrosion while allowing reliable venting under pressure. Offset placement minimizes accidental dislodging during maintenance.
  • Welded, stainless, or nylon handle options – Secure, corrosion-resistant, and built to last.
  • Tetherlok system – Patented theft and loss prevention feature that prevents inserts from falling through or being swept down the line, ensuring added security and reinstallation assurance.

HDPE (Plastic) Inserts

The HDPE Rainstopper delivers practical, dependable inflow protection for municipalities that need effective solutions without added complexity or cost.

Ideal For:

  • Budget-conscious projects – Reduces inflow and odor issues at a lower price point, freeing funds for other infrastructure needs.
  • Smaller systems or light stormwater areas – Performs reliably in regions with moderate rainfall or lower inflow pressure.
  • Routine maintenance and inspection programs – Lightweight design simplifies handling, reduces labor, and speeds up installation.
  • Temporary or phased projects – Ideal for testing inflow prevention solutions or use in areas with planned infrastructure upgrades.
  • Odor and noise reduction – Controls sewer odors and minimizes traffic-related manhole cover noise and movement.
  • Insert loss prevention – When paired with the Tetherlok system, the HDPE insert stays secure and prevents accidental drop-throughs during inspections or maintenance.

Note: Not recommended for flood mitigation or high-groundwater environments where stainless steel offers greater durability and sealing performance.

 

Choosing the Right Inflow Solution

Every system is unique, which is why Rainstopper offers multiple manhole inflow protector options. Compare our models to find the best fit for your project:

  • Stainless Steel Rainstopper: Proven reliability for long-term performance.
  • Stainless Steel with Tetherlok: Added security and theft prevention.
  • 50-Year Pan: Premium extended-life model with 50-Year Gasket.
  • HDPE Insert: Lightweight, cost-effective option for budget-conscious projects.
  • OdorKnocker Model RX: Proven H₂S odor control for manholes, eliminating sulfur-based odors at the source.

 

Quality and Warranty

All Rainstopper inserts are:

  • Made in the USA
  • BABA compliant
  • Backed by warranty – 15-year limited warranty on stainless steel, 1-year on HDPE
  • Precision-built to your exact specifications

Warranty Overview:

  • Stainless Steel Models: 15-year limited replacement warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship (excludes damage from mishandling or abnormal use).
  • HDPE Models: 1-year limited replacement warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship (excludes damage from mishandling or abnormal use).

Guarantee:

We guarantee measurable performance and savings from day one, providing a clear return on investment upon installation.