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During a storm, heavy wind and rainfall can cause damage to your home. That’s why it’s important to prepare your plumbing system before dark clouds are overhead. You may not avoid all plumbing challenges that come with a big storm, but you can minimize the damage.
Following a storm, you should contact a plumber as soon as possible to fix burst pipes and other plumbing damage. bluefrog Plumbing + drain provides emergency plumbing service for storm-related damage.
You can keep damage to a minimum by following the right procedures, so add these steps to your pre- and post-storm checklist.
Steps to Take Prior to the Storm
Did you know that you can protect your plumbing system before a big rainstorm? Here are some tips from the experts at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, your resource for comprehensive local plumbing service.
Shut Off the Main Valve
You can’t stop the storm, and there’s always a chance that floodwater will enter your home. This could bring chemicals, sewage, animal waste and other contaminants flowing into your home. To help minimize the risk to your property and health, shut off your main water valve before you leave for higher ground.
Stock up on water bottles and fill containers or the bathtub with water you can use to flush the toilet in case the municipal water is unsafe to use following the storm.
If you notice leaks or clogs after the storm, call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain for drain cleaning and other plumbing services to ensure your water supply and wastewater systems are functioning normally.
Check Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump keeps water from pooling around your home, crawl space or basement. It can prevent floodwater from damaging your home and belongings. It’s a good idea to have the sump pump inspected prior to the storm. You can also invest in a battery backup to keep water out of your home even in a power outage.
Clear your street sewers to keep them from clogging during the storm. If the sewer backs up into your home, it can lead to health risks and expensive repairs.
Double-check the gutters on your roof to ensure they are securely fastened and free of leaves and debris. If possible, use extensions to point rainwater away from your home.
Check Your Drains
Consider your drainage system as your shield against stormwater. Gutters and exterior drains keep water out of your house, this protects the walls, foundations and interior of your home. Make sure that debris isn’t blocking your gutters. It only takes a few minutes to inspect your drains and gutters and remove anything that could lead to a clog.
Look for weeds, leaves and trash stuck in the gutters. It’s also a good idea to trim branches that are too close to the home. Falling branches often damage gutters, creating havoc when the rainwater cascade over the side of your home.
Taking these steps reduces your need for plumbing service after the storm passes by.
Inspect the Septic System
If you have an underground septic tank, check for clogs. Maintain a regular maintenance schedule to avoid a full tank before the storm. If your tank is too full, the addition of rainwater can force sewage into your home. Schedule plumbing service to inspect your septic tank, especially if you frequently have slow drains or clogged toilets. bluefrog Plumbing + Drain can provide a thorough inspection of your septic tank before the rising stormwater puts it to the test.
During the Storm
If you remain in your home, here are some tips to minimize damage during a big storm. Keep the main water valve off and use bottled water frugally for cooking and drinking. Make sure the gas is off too.
Use water frugally. If it’s an emergency, you can use water from the water heater until the plumbing service has been fully restored.
Check Your Drains
You can check your sump pump during the storm. It will continue working unless the power cuts out. Clear any debris from drains inside the home.
Tips for After the Storm
Once the storm passes, you can check outside for damage. However, if you see downed powerlines, stay indoors and alert the authorities.
Clear Debris from the Drains
Clearing debris from sewer drains helps the flood water recede more quickly. Check the gutter and drains around your home for damage and, if necessary, call for a plumbing service to fix leaks, broken pipes and other storm-related damage.
Turn the Water Back On
Local news stations may report when the water is safe to use again. After the storm, you can turn on your water if it’s safe to do so. If you notice discolored water or leaks, turn the water off and call bluefrog Plumbing + Drain for plumbing service right away.
Flush your toilets to make sure the water is draining properly. It takes the hot water heater about an hour to warm up after you turn the water back on. Check to ensure it’s working properly and call for plumbing service if you don’t get hot water back with an hour or so.
See Anything You Don’t Like? Call bluefrog Plumbing and Drain
It’s better to be safe than sorry. Schedule an inspection or plumbing service to make sure your freshwater line and drainpipes are working properly. After a storm, there may be a longer wait than usual, so the sooner you schedule plumbing service, the faster we can get to your home.
bluefrog Plumbing + Drain also offers emergency plumbing service in the event of a storm or other event that puts your plumbing system in jeopardy. Call 1-844-HOP-TO-IT to schedule an appointment.
