As the impending hurricane season looms, it’s crucial to extend our preparation beyond securing food and valuables. Often overlooked, your home and plumbing system can be particularly vulnerable during a major storm.
Having experienced the devastating impact of hurricanes, Houston area residents are well-aware of the catastrophic damage these events can unleash.
In the Days Leading Up to a Major Storm
Despite proactive measures like septic tank pumping and clearing French drains, vulnerable aspects during hurricane season also include widespread flooding, structural damage, power outages, transportation disruptions, and public health concerns.
These storms can impact homes, infrastructure, and the environment, necessitating comprehensive preparedness beyond specific plumbing precautions for a more resilient response to hurricane-related challenges.
Stock up on drinking water, following FEMA recommendations. Fill sinks and bathtubs with water for toilet flushing in case of water supply disruption.
6 Tips to Prep Your Home For a Hurricane
Prioritizing proactive measures can make all the difference when it comes to safeguarding your home during hurricane season. Before the storm strikes, follow these six essential tips to ensure your home and plumbing are well-prepared, minimizing potential damage and providing peace of mind in the face of impending weather challenges.
- Preparing For Power Outages:
As most Houston homeowners know, rolling blackouts and power outages have become more of a reality than ever before. Houston homeowners may prepare for potential power outages by installing a whole house generator or a quick disconnect for a portable generator. If you are preparing for a generator installation and need gas line modifications made, give our team of licensed experts a call today.
- Electric and Tankless Water Heater Preparation:
Suffering through prolonged power outages and power surges can be hard on our homes, appliances, and electronics. When power surges occur, they can fry unprotected appliances and electronics. If your community experiences power surges during a hurricane, it is imperative to unplug and protect your appliances, such as an electric or tankless water heater from outlets. This simple measure can save your electronics and home from potentially harmful and dangerous power surges.
- Keep Sump Pump in Working Order:
Ensure your sump pump is operational and free from debris. Schedule a quick inspection with your septic tank professional to ensure your sump pump is working in optimal condition. Once your septic tank professional inspects your septic tank and pump, inquire if there are additional preventative measures you can take to prepare your system for a hurricane.
- Septic Tank Inspection
Flooding events can threaten septic tanks, posing public health risks. Prioritize hurricane preparedness by having your septic tank inspected and pumped by licensed professional. If your home or business has a septic system, sewage back-ups or drains holding water may indicate that your septic tank is full. Before the heavy rainfall comes, have your septic tank inspected and pumped if needed.
- French Drains, Yard Drains, Patio Drains:
If you’re preparing your home for hurricane season make sure your yard, patio or French drains are clear of debris and free flowing. These drains ensure rainwater and debris drain away from your home to a distant location. Protecting your home from flooding and slab from water damage. If you need professional assistance clearing debris and sludge from your French drains, contact our team of professionals for quality service.
- Maintain Landscaping and Remove Risky Tree/Tree Limbs:
It is important to make sure that landscaping is maintained, dead foliage is removed, and tree limbs that are at risk of damaging property or electrical lines are cut down. As most Houston homeowners know, high winds can wreak havoc, potentially causing major property damage. Before a hurricane strikes, make sure your home and landscaping are prepared for the prevailing weather.
Summing Up:
Taking proactive measures in preparing your plumbing and home for hurricane season is imperative to minimize property damage. Beyond potential cost savings, this approach alleviates the immense stress associated with post-hurricane clean-up.
At Show Plumbing, our professional and licensed plumber assistance is geared towards ensuring that Houston remains safe and dry during this hurricane season. For plumbing or gas line inquiries, contact us at (281) 860-2000 – we’re here to help you weather the storm.