Hurricane season reaches its peak between August and October for North Carolina residents and can cause incredible damage to plumbing systems. This blog will list some essential tips for preparing residential plumbing in Greensboro, NC, and the surrounding areas, to withstand the 2020 Hurricane Season.
Test Your Sump Pump
Making sure your sump pump is functioning correctly is the most important thing you can do. Sump pumps are an essential plumbing appliance for residents of Greensboro and the surrounding areas, especially during hurricane season, because they protect homes from nasty floods by redirecting incoming water away from the house. Therefore, testing the sump pump is essential to your home’s well-being and family’s comfort this fall.
Thankfully, testing the sump pump is very easy. All you have to do is:
- Clean out the exterior drainpipe, so there is no debris blocking the flow of water.
- Make sure the sump pump is connected to power and the motor is running.
- Slowly pour water into the sump pit. Stop when the float rises. This will automatically trigger the sump pump to drain the water. If it doesn’t, you better call a Go Green plumber!
If you don’t have a sump pump, now is the time to invest in one. Sump pumps eliminate the risk of home floods and save you tons of money on subsequent water damage repairs. We also recommend buying a battery backup system, just in case an unexpected power outage renders your sump pump useless.
Clean the Gutters
While this isn’t technically a plumbing issue, cleaning your gutters is important in avoiding future water damage on your roof and ceiling. Gutters are like sump pumps for your roof — they gather the rainwater and direct it away from the house. But they have to be clear of debris, so the water has a clear path to travel. Otherwise, it will overflow and spill onto your siding anyway.
Avoid that issue by spending 30 minutes to an hour cleaning fallen leaves and other debris found in your gutters this weekend.
Locate Your Main Water Valve
If, by any chance, you either won’t be home or have to leave your home during a storm, it’s always a good idea to turn off your main water pipe for extra safety and precaution. It’s best to locate and know how to work this valve ahead of time, so you don’t have to struggle with it last minute.
Most main water valves are located in the basement or garage inside the house. They are flaming red, so you can’t miss it if you know where to look. However, if you don’t find it there, it may be hiding in a covered pit on the ground. You can shut off the main water pipe by turning the valve clockwise. Once the water is turned off, open a sink faucet to relieve the pressure (and make sure you did it right). Call a Go Green plumber if you have any doubts about locating or working your main water valve. We’re here to help!
Inspect Plumbing System
It’s a good idea to inspect your plumbing system at least once or twice a year for regular upkeep. If you haven’t scheduled your annual service yet, now’s the perfect time to do so!
Hurricane season can bring about some awful floods that will exacerbate even the smallest plumbing issues. Getting a professional inspection and tune-up from an expert plumber will give you peace of mind for the rest of the year.
In addition to getting your plumbing ready for hurricane season, follow this short guide below to maximize your family’s comfort during fall and winter.
There you have it! By following these tips, your home will be safe and protected. However, our emergency plumbers in Greensboro are always available, so just call us if you need us!
