Living in New Orleans has its fair share of charm, but it also means preparing for hurricane season. Beyond the standard emergency provisions, your home’s plumbing system needs attention too. As your trusted plumber in New Orleans, Blair Plumbing is here to share essential tips to safeguard your plumbing from potential storm damage.
Why is Plumbing Preparation Important?
One of the often-overlooked aspects of hurricane preparation is the plumbing system. Not only can flooding directly affect your home’s pipes, but the pressure changes associated with severe weather can also lead to plumbing malfunctions. Preparing your plumbing can help mitigate costly damage and ensure a quicker return to normalcy post-storm.
Key Tips from Your Plumber in New Orleans
1. Secure Your Pipes
Your home’s exterior and exposed pipes are susceptible to damage during hurricanes due to high winds and debris. Before hurricane season, conduct a thorough inspection of these pipes for any signs of weakness or existing damage.
Secure any loose pipes with durable, corrosion-resistant clamps or straps for additional stability. Consider reinforcing the areas where underground pipes emerge from the ground with extra soil or gravel to guard against erosion from heavy rain.
2. Install a Sump Pump
A sump pump, placed in the lowest part of your home, can be crucial in keeping your home dry during flooding. It automatically pumps out accumulating water during heavy rain, reducing the risk of water damage.
Choosing the right type of sump pump depends on your home’s size, location, soil type, and typical rainfall. Installation can be complex, involving digging a sump pit, setting up the pump, and electrical work. Therefore, it’s advisable to hire a professional New Orleans plumber for this task.
3. Check Your Drains
Ensure all your exterior and interior drains are clear of debris and functioning properly. Blocked drains can exacerbate flooding damage. If you need assistance, your local plumbing service in New Orleans can help clean and clear your drains.
4. Protect Your Water Heater
Water heaters are essential for daily comfort but are vulnerable during hurricanes. Firstly, consider elevating your water heater if it’s in a flood-prone area to prevent floodwater from damaging its critical components.
It’s also crucial to secure your water heater to a wall or floor. Hurricanes can cause unsecured water heaters to topple, resulting in potential leaks or electrical hazards. Use straps or brackets to stabilize your heater.
Insulating your water heater can maintain water temperature during power outages, and knowing how to shut it off can prevent further damage in case of flooding.
Preparing a water heater for a hurricane can be complex. If unsure, reach out to us. Our team is ready to assist with all aspects of water heater maintenance and storm preparation. Safeguarding your systems now can prevent significant damage during hurricane season.
5. Turn Off the Water Main
If evacuation is necessary, it’s wise to turn off the water main to your house. This step can prevent contaminated floodwater from entering your home’s water supply.
Your Plumber New Orleans Source for Pre- and Post-Storm Services
Preparing for hurricane season is a crucial task for every homeowner in our region. But remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Blair Plumbing, your leading plumber in New Orleans, is here to help you protect your home’s plumbing system from hurricane damage. Our expert plumbers offer a wide range of services, from securing pipes to installing sump pumps, all aimed at providing the best plumbing New Orleans can rely on.
And in the unfortunate event of a hurricane affecting your home, our swift and reliable service ensures your plumbing system is restored as quickly and efficiently as possible. Count on us, your dedicated New Orleans plumbing specialists, for all your plumbing needs during hurricane season and beyond.
Ready to safeguard your plumbing system for the upcoming hurricane season? Contact us for expert advice and superior service. Your home deserves the best.
