What a Storm Can Do to Your Home’s Plumbing

The Unseen Fury

Storms can be beautiful and awe-inspiring, with their majestic displays of nature’s power. However, beneath their surface beauty lies a potential threat to our homes’ plumbing systems. Whether it’s a torrential downpour or high winds, the impact of such extreme weather events on plumbing can be significant. So what can a storm can do to your home’s plumbing and what tips can we give you on how to protect your plumbing from the havoc of the elements.

Flooding and Sewer Backups

One of the most immediate and devastating effects of a storm on your plumbing is flooding. Heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, causing water to accumulate around your property. As water levels rise, it can infiltrate your basement or crawl space, potentially damaging your plumbing fixtures and systems.

Furthermore, excessive stormwater can infiltrate your sewage system, increasing the risk of sewer backups. These backups can force raw sewage back into your home through toilets, sinks, and drains, creating a severe health hazard and causing extensive damage to your plumbing.

Erosion and Ground Shifting

Storms can lead to significant ground shifting and erosion, which can affect your home’s plumbing infrastructure. Soil erosion can undermine the stability of buried water and sewage lines, potentially causing them to collapse, rupture, or become dislodged. This can result in costly repairs and disruptions to your water supply or sewage disposal.

Contaminated Water Supply

Heavy storms can compromise the quality of your drinking water. Floodwaters can infiltrate underground water sources, contaminating your well water or municipal water supply. This can introduce harmful pathogens, chemicals, and debris into your plumbing system, posing serious health risks to you and your family.

Water Pressure Fluctuations

Sudden and extreme changes in water pressure during a storm can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. High water pressure can stress your pipes and fixtures, leading to leaks and burst pipes. On the other hand, low water pressure can disrupt your daily activities and potentially cause issues with your water-using appliances and fixtures.

Blocked Drains and Sewers

Leaves, branches, debris, and sediment washed into storm drains can block the flow of water in your plumbing system. Clogged drains and sewers can result in backups, slow drainage, and increased stress on your plumbing. In the worst-case scenario, it may lead to sewer overflows, causing a mess that is both unsightly and unsanitary.

How to Protect Your Plumbing During Storms

Install Backflow Prevention Devices: These devices can help prevent contaminated water from flowing back into your home during a sewer backup.

Elevate Electrical Components: Elevate your water heater, furnace, and other electrical components to minimise damage from flooding.

Seal and Insulate: Properly seal and insulate any openings or cracks in your home to prevent stormwater infiltration.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear: Regularly clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water from overflowing and seeping into your home’s foundation.

Have a Sump Pump Installed: A sump pump can help prevent flooding in your basement or crawl space by removing excess water.

Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine plumbing inspections and maintenance to identify and address potential issues before they become severe.

Storms can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing, leading to flooding, sewer backups, contaminated water, and various other issues. It is essential to be proactive and take steps to protect your plumbing system. Regular maintenance, preventive measures, and swift action during and after storms can go a long way in safeguarding your home’s plumbing from the unseen fury of Mother Nature.