Drainage Channels

Drainage channels direct surface water away from driveways, patios, pathways and commercial areas before it can pool or cause damage. At Elliotts, we stock a full range of ACO drainage channels — one of the most trusted names in surface water management.  

We have channels, gratings and accessories ready for click and collect or local delivery. 

Choosing the right drainage channel  

Not sure which channel is right for your project? The main factors to consider are load class: 

• A15 load class for pedestrian and light domestic use  
• B125 load class for driveways and private car parks  
• C250 load class for parking areas and service stations (cars) 
• D400 load class for public highways, parking areas for all vehicle types and distribution yards 

You’ll also need to consider the channel width, and grating material – polypropylene, galvanised steel, aluminium, concrete, iron, and more.  

All ACO drainage channels at Elliotts comply with BS EN 1433 and are available for Click & Collect from our branches or fast delivery across the UK. 

Popular ACO drainage channel products that help minimise the build up of surface water include: 

ACO HexDrain drainage channels  

Load class: A15 

Suitable for: Domestic driveways, garden paths and patios 

ACO HexDrain handles pedestrian traffic and light vehicles with ease, and the click-together channel design makes installation straightforward — no specialist tools required.  

Choose from black plastic, galvanised steel or brickslot gratings to suit your paving style. The HexDrain Brickslot variant sits flush with block paving and cobble setts, keeping the drain virtually invisible once installed.  

ACO RainDrain channels  

Load class: Up to B125 

Suitable for: Most residential driveways where vehicles regularly cross the channel 

For applications that need a little more strength, ACO RainDrain channels are available up to B125 load rating. Galvanised steel and cast iron grating options give a more robust, commercial finish while still looking smart in a residential setting.  

RainDrain channels are fully compatible with HexDrain accessories including end caps and corner units.  

ACO MultiDrain channels  

Load class: D400* 

Suitable for: car parks, highways and industrial settings 

Where heavier loads or commercial specifications are required, ACO MultiDrain channels offer higher load class performance designed to provide an economical solution for the efficient removal of surface water. 

Get the right drainage channels for your project 

We have a great range of ACO drainage channels to suit all projects available for click & collect or local delivery across Hampshire and the South. 

Not sure what you need? Pop into your nearest Elliotts branch for some expert advice from our experienced team. 

Complete your drainage project 

A drainage channel is just one part of a well-designed surface water system. Once your ACO channel is in place, you'll need to think about where the collected water goes next. 

Soakaway Crates are the most popular solution for dispersing surface water into the ground beneath your garden or driveway, avoiding the need to connect to the mains drainage system. They're often installed directly beneath a lawn or planted area where they won't be disturbed. 

For longer runs or where water needs to travel further, Twinwall & Land Drainage pipe connects your channel outlet to a soakaway or drainage point, handling the flow efficiently underground. This sits within our broader Underground Drainage range, which covers everything you need to complete the below-ground element of your project. 

Finally, if your project includes an inspection point or connects to an existing drainage run, take a look at our Manhole Covers & Frames — available in a range of load ratings to match driveways, footpaths and commercial applications. 

Frequently asked questions about drainage channels 

What is the difference between an A15 and B125 drainage channel?  

A15 channels are rated to handle loads up to 1.5 tonnes, making them suitable for pedestrian areas, patios and light domestic driveways where cars will occasionally cross. B125 channels are rated up to 12.5 tonnes and are the better choice for driveways, parking areas and any location where vehicles regularly drive over the channel.  

Which ACO drainage channel is best for a driveway?  

For most domestic driveways we recommend ACO HexDrain (A15) for lighter use, or ACO RainDrain (up to B125) where vehicles cross the channel regularly. If you want a discreet finish that blends with block paving, the HexDrain Brickslot channel is an excellent choice.  

Can ACO HexDrain be used with block paving?  

Yes. The ACO HexDrain Brickslot channel features a narrow slot profile specifically designed to sit flush with block paving and cobble setts. Once installed, the grating is virtually invisible, making it a popular choice for driveways and patios where aesthetics matter.  

What accessories do I need to install an ACO drainage channel?  

Most installations require an outlet end cap (to connect to your underground drainage) and a closing end cap for the opposite end. If your channel changes direction, you will also need a corner unit. The ACO HexDrain Accessory Bag (SKU 46203) contains the most commonly needed accessories in a single pack — a convenient option if you are unsure what you need.  

How do I connect a drainage channel to underground drainage?  

ACO drainage channels are connected to the underground drainage system via an outlet end cap, which sits at one end of the channel run and directs water downward into a drainage pipe. The outlet typically connects to a 110mm underground drainage pipe. If you need help planning your drainage layout, our specialist Civils product experts will be happy to advise.