Hurricane season brings the potential for heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, and power outages throughout Savannah and surrounding Coastal Georgia communities. While many homeowners focus on storm shutters and emergency supplies, plumbing systems are often overlooked until problems happen.
Taking a few preventative steps before severe weather arrives can help reduce the risk of plumbing damage, flooding, and costly repairs during hurricane season.
Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
One of the most important things homeowners can do before a storm is locate the home’s main water shut-off valve. If a pipe bursts or plumbing damage occurs during severe weather, shutting off the water quickly can help minimize flooding and water damage.
Every household should know:
- Where the shut-off valve is located
- How to turn it off safely
- Whether a water shut-off key is needed
Testing the valve before hurricane season can also help identify corrosion or operational issues.
Inspect Outdoor Plumbing and Hoses
Outdoor plumbing components are more exposed during storms and high winds. Before hurricane season begins, inspect:
- Outdoor hose bibs
- Irrigation systems
- Exposed pipes
- Outdoor faucets
- Garden hoses
Disconnecting garden hoses before a storm can help reduce pressure on outdoor plumbing fixtures and minimize the risk of damage.
Check Sump Pumps and Drainage Systems
Homes with sump pumps should test the system before storm season arrives. Heavy rainfall and flooding can quickly overwhelm drainage systems if the sump pump is not operating properly.
Homeowners should also clear debris from outdoor drains and gutters to help water flow away from the home more effectively.
Prepare for Power Outages
Power outages can affect several plumbing-related systems throughout the home, including:
- Sump pumps
- Well pumps
- Electric water heaters
- Tankless water heaters
- Sewer lift pumps
Backup generators or battery backup systems may help keep critical systems operating during extended outages.
Inspect for Existing Plumbing Leaks
Small plumbing leaks can become larger problems during storms or evacuation situations. Before hurricane season, check for:
- Dripping faucets
- Leaking pipes
- Water stains
- Damp cabinets
- Toilet leaks
- Water heater corrosion
Addressing repairs early may help prevent larger issues later.
Protect Important Plumbing Equipment
If flooding is possible, homeowners may want to elevate or protect important plumbing-related equipment when possible, including water heaters, electrical components, and stored plumbing supplies.
Homes in flood-prone areas may benefit from additional drainage or flood prevention solutions.
Schedule Preventative Plumbing Maintenance
A plumbing inspection before hurricane season can help identify vulnerabilities in aging pipes, drainage systems, water heaters, and shut-off valves before severe weather arrives.
At Henry Plumbing, we help homeowners throughout Savannah prepare for hurricane season with plumbing inspections, leak detection, water line services, sump pump solutions, water heater services, and emergency plumbing repairs. Taking preventative steps now can help protect your home when severe weather strikes.
