The best catch basin curb inlet product depends on whether you need to filter pollutants from a storm drain or collect and route runoff on your property. The PIG Open Curb Inlet Filter is best for a curb opening up to 28 inches and emphasizes high water flow. ENPAC offers curb filters and inserts for sediment control, while its basin insert sits below a grate. The NDS kit is different: it collects and directs property runoff rather than filtering a curb inlet.
| Product | Best suited for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| PIG Open Curb Inlet Filter | Open curb inlets up to 28 inches | Adjustable height and high-flow fabric |
| ENPAC Storm Sentinel Curb Inlet Filter | Debris and sediment control | Rigid coiled center and oil-absorbing packet |
| ENPAC 4346 Curb Inlet Insert | Openings from 24 to 30 inches | Adjustable fit and stated overflow rate |
| ENPAC Storm Sentinel Curb Basin Insert | Catch basins beneath a grate | Cut-to-size fabric and low-profile placement |
| NDS Square Catch Basin Drain Kit | Property runoff collection | Catch basin, grate, adapters, and plug |
PIG Open Curb Inlet Filter
This reusable sediment filter is designed to sit over a curb inlet. Its listed dimensions are 4 inches wide, 34 inches long, and 5 inches high, and the product is specified for curb openings up to 28 inches.
- Best for: Buyers who need an over-the-drain filter for an opening within the stated size range.
- Why it stands out: The wedge-shaped design is intended to sit flat and resist shifting or rolling. Its height adjusts to 4 or 5 inches depending on frame orientation, and high-flow fabric lets water pass through.
Limitation: The stated opening limit is 28 inches, so measure the inlet before choosing this filter. Its over-the-drain design may not suit a below-grate installation.
ENPAC Storm Sentinel Curb Inlet Filter
The Storm Sentinel is a reusable curb inlet filter intended to catch sediment, trash, and debris while allowing stormwater to pass through its rigid coiled center. The listing also describes an oil-absorbing packet and optional weights.
- Best for: Buyers looking for a curb filter with pollutant capture and a design intended to maintain water flow.
- Why it stands out: A hook strap secures the bag to a curb inlet insert, and the listing says installation requires no special tools. Optional weights help hold it in place and absorb a small amount of hydrocarbons.
Limitation: The filter is reusable only until it is full and no longer filters water, so it needs inspection and replacement when its capacity is reached.
ENPAC 4346 Storm Sentinel Insert
This sediment-focused curb inlet insert is adjustable for openings from 24 to 30 inches. The listing states that it installs without special tools and has an overflow rate of up to 500 gallons per minute.
- Best for: Buyers whose curb inlet measures within the 24-to-30-inch range.
- Why it stands out: The adjustable fit covers a specified range, and the stated overflow rate gives buyers a flow-related comparison point when evaluating inlet inserts.
Limitation: Its stated fit range does not cover openings smaller than 24 inches or larger than 30 inches. Confirm inlet dimensions and site requirements before purchase.
ENPAC Storm Sentinel Basin Insert
This frameless catch basin insert is designed to sit below the grate, making it a low-profile option for a basin rather than a filter placed over an open curb inlet. Its fabric can be cut to size, and the listing describes installation and removal as easy.
- Best for: Buyers who need an insert beneath a catch basin grate and can size the fabric to the basin.
- Why it stands out: The frameless, cut-to-size construction offers a different approach from fixed-dimension curb filters.
Limitation: The fabric must be cut to fit, so careful sizing is important. The listing does not provide a specific basin dimension or flow rate.
NDS Square Catch Basin Drain Kit
This 12-inch square catch basin kit is for collecting and routing stormwater on a property. It includes a basin with two side openings and a bottom knockout, two outlet adapters, a plug, and a plastic grate.
- Best for: Buyers managing runoff from lawns, landscaped areas, patios, walkways, or downspouts.
- Why it stands out: The basin connects to drain pipe to carry captured water downstream. The listing identifies compatibility with 3-inch and 4-inch sewer and drain, single-wall corrugated, triple-wall, and DWV/Schedule 40 drain pipes.
Limitation: This is a drainage collection kit, not a curb inlet sediment filter. Choose it for routing property runoff, not as a direct substitute for an inlet insert.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Catch Basin Curb Inlet Product
Do you need filtration or drainage?
Choose a curb inlet filter or insert when the goal is to capture sediment, trash, or other pollutants before they enter a storm drain. Choose a catch basin drain kit when the goal is to collect runoff and convey it through connected pipe. These products address related water-management needs, but they are not interchangeable.
How should you measure the inlet?
Measure the opening and compare it with the product’s stated fit range. The PIG filter is listed for curb openings up to 28 inches, while the ENPAC 4346 is adjustable for openings from 24 to 30 inches. The frameless ENPAC basin insert is cut to size, so measure the space beneath the grate before trimming its fabric.
What should you consider about water flow?
Look for the flow information provided for the specific product. PIG describes its fabric as high-flow, and the ENPAC 4346 listing states an overflow rate of up to 500 gallons per minute. These descriptions are not identical performance specifications; consider local drainage conditions and installation requirements when comparing them.
How much maintenance will the filter need?
Filters that capture debris need inspection and servicing. The ENPAC Storm Sentinel listing says to reuse the filter until it is full and no longer filtering water. Before selecting a product, consider whether you can access the inlet regularly to check for accumulated sediment and debris.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a catch basin curb inlet filter used for?
It is placed at or within a storm drain inlet to capture sediment and debris before they enter the drainage system, while allowing water to pass through according to the product design.
Is a curb inlet filter the same as a catch basin drain kit?
No. A filter is intended to capture pollutants at an inlet. A drain kit collects property runoff and directs it into connected pipe.
How do I know whether a curb inlet insert will fit?
Measure the inlet opening and compare it with the product’s listed dimensions or adjustment range. Do not assume products with similar names have the same fit.
Can a basin insert sit below the grate?
The ENPAC Storm Sentinel Curb Basin Insert is described as sitting below the grate. Its fabric is cut to size for the catch basin.
Do storm drain filters need maintenance?
Yes. Captured material can fill a filter and reduce its ability to pass water. Inspect the product and service it according to its condition and the manufacturer’s instructions.