Master Plumber Mike Heaton has been serving Houston for over 30 years now. During this time, we’ve all witnessed firsthand the power of Mother Nature recently. Those May and June storms packed a punch, leaving a trail of downed trees, power outages, and even plumbing problems.
Here at Heaton Plumbing, we’ve seen a surge in calls related to storm damage. While these storms might be out of our control, there are ways to minimize their impact on your home’s plumbing system. Let’s dive into the potential aftermath of these storms and what you, as a homeowner, can do to protect your pipes and drains.
The Hidden Hazards of Storm Debris:
Heavy rainfall can cause significant flooding, both inside and outside your home. This rushing water carries all sorts of debris – leaves, twigs, small rocks, and trash. Here’s where the trouble begins:
- Clogged Drains: This debris can easily find its way into your storm drains, sewer lines, and your home’s internal plumbing. Clogged drains lead to slow-moving or backed-up sinks, toilets, and bathtubs – a real headache!
- Pipe Damage: Heavy objects like tree branches or rocks can damage exposed pipes, especially those near your home’s foundation. Cracks or breaks in pipes can lead to leaks, hidden water damage, and even mold growth.
Taking Action to Safeguard Your Plumbing:
Before the Storm:
- Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters overflowing with leaves and debris can cause water to cascade down your foundation, potentially entering your basement or crawl space and putting pressure on your plumbing system. Regularly clean your gutters, especially before heavy rain is expected.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Strong winds can easily snap tree limbs, sending them crashing into your roof or power lines. Additionally, heavy branches can block gutters or damage exposed pipes. Trim overhanging branches away from your home to minimize the risk of storm damage.
- Install Backflow Prevention Devices: These devices prevent contaminated water from entering your clean water supply. Backflow can occur during heavy rain when sewer lines become overloaded.
- Invest in a Sump Pump: Consider installing a sump pump if your home is prone to flooding. This pump helps remove excess water from your basement or crawl space, reducing the risk of water damage and protecting your plumbing from potential submersion.
During the Storm:
- Minimize Water Usage: If you experience a power outage, it’s wise to minimize water usage. This reduces the strain on your plumbing system and prevents potential backups if the sewer lines are overwhelmed.
- Secure Loose Outdoor Items: Patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items can become projectiles in high winds. Secure or bring them indoors before the storm hits to prevent them from damaging pipes or drains.
After the Storm:
- Inspect Your Property: Once the storm has passed, walk around your property and inspect for any visible damage to exposed pipes, drains, or foundations. Look for cracks, leaks, or any signs of debris blocking gutters or drains.
- Clear Away Debris: Carefully remove any debris from your gutters, downspouts, and around your foundation. Be cautious of any downed power lines and avoid standing water.
- Check for Leaks: Turn on your faucets and flush your toilets to check for any leaks or slow drainage. Pay attention to your water pressure as well. If you notice any abnormalities, call a qualified plumber like Heaton Plumbing to investigate further.
When to Call a Professional Plumber:
Even with the best preventative measures, storm damage can happen. Here are some signs that indicate professional help is needed:
- Visible leaks or water damage: Don’t attempt to fix major leaks yourself. Call a plumber to assess the situation and prevent further damage.
- Sewage backups: Sewage backups are a serious health hazard. If you experience a sewage backup, call a plumber immediately.
- Low water pressure: Sudden drops in water pressure can indicate a broken pipe or clogged line. A plumber can diagnose the issue and get your water flowing again.
- Strange noises: If you hear unusual gurgling sounds from your drains, it could indicate a clog or a more serious problem with your sewer line. Call a plumber for a professional evaluation.
Remember, you’re not alone!
Here at Heaton Plumbing, we understand the stress and disruption that storm damage can cause. We’re your neighbors, and we’re here to help! Our team of experienced and licensed plumbers is available 24/7 to address any storm-related plumbing issues you might face. We’ll work quickly and efficiently to diagnose the problem. Call Heaton Plumbing today at (281) 842-7473 or (281) 842-PIPE.
Expert Gas Fireplace Service REPAIR in HOUSTON
Heaton Plumbing can help fix and maintain your gas fireplace.
- Gas Fireplace Repair
- Gas Logs Replacement
- Gas Line Repair
- New Gas Line Installation
- Gas Leak Detection Services
At Heaton Plumbing, we specialize in providing comprehensive tankless water heater services, including:
Tankless Water Heater Repair: Our experienced plumbers can diagnose and repair many tankless water heater issues, from minor adjustments to complex troubleshooting.
Tankless Water Heater Installation: We offer expert installation of all major brands of tankless water heaters, ensuring proper sizing, connections, and safety protocols.
Preventative Water Heater Maintenance: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your tankless water heater and prevent costly repairs. Our plumbers provide thorough maintenance services to keep your tankless water heater operating efficiently.
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