These Tips Should Help You & Stay Safe During Hurricane Milton
As hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your home for potential storms. While many people focus on boarding up windows or stocking up on supplies, protecting your plumbing system is equally important. Hurricanes bring heavy rain, flooding, and power outages, all of which can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing.
Here are some essential plumbing tips to help you prepare before the storm hits:
1. Turn Off Your Main Water Supply
In the event of severe flooding, turning off your home’s main water valve can prevent contaminated floodwaters from entering your plumbing system. This simple step can help protect your family from unsafe water and reduce the risk of water damage inside your home.
2. Clear Outdoor Drains and Gutters
Storms bring a lot of water, and you want to make sure it flows away from your home. Be sure to clear debris, leaves, and dirt from outdoor drains, gutters, and downspouts. This reduces the chances of your drainage system becoming overwhelmed, which can lead to water backing up into your home or basement.
3. Secure Outdoor Plumbing
High winds and flying debris can easily damage outdoor plumbing fixtures. If you have any outdoor faucets, garden hoses, or irrigation systems, be sure to turn them off and disconnect hoses. This will prevent broken pipes or valves, reducing the risk of flooding around your property.
4. Inspect Your Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, it’s your first line of defense against basement flooding. Check to make sure it’s functioning properly before the storm. Test it by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and ensure it activates. Additionally, consider investing in a backup battery or pump so that it can continue to work even if there’s a power outage.
5. Check for Leaks
Even minor plumbing leaks can become a major issue during heavy rains and flooding. Before the hurricane hits, inspect your plumbing system for any leaks, especially in areas prone to flooding, like basements or crawl spaces. Fixing small leaks now can save you from bigger, costlier issues later.
6. Drain Excess Water
If you have low-lying pipes or live in a flood-prone area, draining standing water from your pipes can help prevent backups or pipe bursts. This is especially important in areas that may experience freezing temperatures post-storm, as frozen water can cause pipes to crack or burst.
7. Elevate Water Heaters and Other Appliances
If your home is in a flood zone, consider elevating your water heater, furnace, or other important appliances. This can help protect them from water damage and ensure that they continue to function once the storm passes.
8. Consider a Backup Generator for Plumbing Appliances
Plumbing systems like sump pumps and water pumps are often critical during storms, and they rely on electricity. Having a backup generator can keep these essential systems operational during power outages, protecting your home from water damage.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your home’s plumbing system for a hurricane can save you from costly repairs and major inconveniences after the storm. By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of damage and ensure that your home is ready to weather the storm.
If you need assistance with any of these tasks, or if you’re unsure about your home’s plumbing system, Elite Plumbing Services, Inc. is here to help. Contact us today for pre-storm inspections and last-minute preparations to keep your home safe during hurricane season.
Stay safe, Pinellas County!
Elite Plumbing Services, Inc.
(727) 234-5338