When the weather gets warmer, storms tend to be more common. Although some light rain once in a while can be pretty relaxing, heavy annual storms can devastate your home.
However, there are numerous lines of defense that you can have at your disposal to protect your home. Follow these tips for preparing your water main for storm season to protect your property and your family.
Turn the Valve for Your Water Main Off
When flooding is a distinct possibility, you should turn off the valve to your home’s water main. Doing so will stop stormwater from contaminating your water supply and help your pipes avoid any preventable damage.
If you don’t know where the valve is for your water main, you should check your garage and basement or search your front yard for a utility cover. Once you find it, all you need to do is twist the valve into the Off position.
Clear Out Your Downspouts, Drains, and Gutters
If you want to avoid a clog or backup, clear out any debris in your downspouts, gutters, and drains. Cleaning these areas will help water flow and limit any unnecessary plumbing dilemmas.
Understanding the difference between a sewer line and a water line is crucial to ensuring your sewer line doesn’t get backed up. Over time, debris will clog your sewer line, which could be dangerous. If a serious storm occurs, it could back up your sewage into your home. Clearing out the debris in other areas of your home serves as an effective safeguard against this problem.
Buy a Sump Pump
You should move all your valuables to higher ground before the storm settles in if your region is prone to floods. Installing a sump pump will move any incoming water toward a hole in the floor called the sump. For the most effective solution, install a battery backup for your sump pump in case the power goes out. This addition will prevent your home from flooding even when you don’t have electricity.
Storm season can wreak havoc on your home if you don’t prepare properly. Now that you know a few tips for preparing your water main for storm season, be sure to follow them before any damage can occur.
