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Plumbing Tips for Hurricane Season

Posted on May 28, 2024 by Melbourne Plumber

The hot and mostly beautiful summer is upon us. We will visit the beach, go swimming, maybe do some boating and basically do all the things that we love to do in the summer. It’s part of the benefit of living in America’s southeast. But, we all know with those benefits come some risks, like violent storms, for example.

As you probably know, hurricanes are the biggest natural disaster Floridians face every year. The big swirling storms brings with them many billions of gallons of water and extreme natural energy. These intense storms can cause wind damage, flooding, lightning fires and even spin off into other disastrous storms like tornados.

So, why are we writing about  dangerous storms if we are a plumbing company? Basically because these storms can cause you major plumbing problems. Just a few of the issues you may face because of hurricanes are broken pipes and flooding which causes your pipes to back up.

It’s a good idea to have a contingency plan for when the storm do come. Here are a few tips of what to look out for when storms come in regards to your plumbing.

Pipes

Most of us have outdoor pipes of some sort. Whether it is little access pipes on the outside of the home or a re-piping job that you have had, these pipes can be damaged when items hit them. Make sure to police your yard of any objects which may become flying missiles in high winds.

If a pipe is damaged you will want to shut off your main water supply. The main is usually located in a little box located in the ground between your house and street. You definitely don’t want to add more water to an already soggy situation.

Flooding of Pipes

A drain backing up is something that may occur during bad storms. Try to contain the flood water the best that you can. Remember, this water can be very dirty and teaming with bacteria. Make sure to wear gloves and wipe down with disinfectant after dealing with it.

The water will usually subside after the storm when water levels outside the home begins to drain away. If your water is not draining properly, it may be a good idea to contact a professional plumber in the Melbourne area. We will be able to diagnose the problem and get it fixed for you ASAP.

After Storm Inspection

Look around your home for damage. This includes damage to the foundation and slab. A caved in part of your yard or driveway can be a sign of a serious plumbing problem. Old drainage pipes can corrode over time and the storm puts just enough pressure on them to collapse in on themselves. If you notice a collapsed area in your yard or driveway call a professional right away. This is not something you want to put off.