Check Your Pipes After Heavy Rainfall

Heavy rainfall and flooding can cause significant damage to your home’s plumbing infrastructure. As Los Angeles recovers from some record-breaking downpours, the resulting standing water and debris can block drains, damage pipes, and create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Checking your home’s plumbing infrastructure after heavy rainfall and flooding is essential to prevent further damage and maintain your family’s health and safety. In this blog post, we will discuss the issues you could discover, how to spot them, and how preventive measures can go a long way.

Issues You Could Discover

After heavy rainfall and flooding, you might notice a range of plumbing issues, including:

1. Clogged Drains: Standing water can accumulate in your home’s drains, causing blockages that can prevent wastewater from flowing out of your home. This can lead to water backing up into your home, causing severe damage.
2. Pipe Damage: Flooding can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to leaks and water damage. Over time, this can cause mold and mildew growth and, in severe cases, structural damage to your home.
3. Sewage Backup: If your home’s sewage system is not working correctly, heavy rainfall can cause sewage to back up into your home. This can create a hazardous and unsanitary environment that can lead to severe health problems.

How to Spot Plumbing Issues

There are a few signs that you can look out for to spot plumbing issues after heavy rainfall and flooding. These include:

1. Unpleasant Odors: If you notice a foul smell coming from your drains or sewage system, it could be a sign of blockages or damage.
2. Slow Draining Water: If water is draining slowly from your sinks, showers, or toilets, there may be a blockage in your home’s plumbing system.
3. Water Damage: If you notice water stains or damage on your walls, floors, or ceilings, it could be a sign of a leaking or damaged pipe.

Preventive Measures

Taking preventive measures before heavy rainfall and flooding can go a long way in protecting your home’s plumbing infrastructure. Here are some tips:

1. Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your home’s plumbing system can help prevent blockages, leaks, and other issues. Hire a professional plumber to inspect your plumbing system annually.
2. Install Backflow Prevention Devices: Installing backflow prevention devices can help prevent sewage from backing up into your home.
3. Proper Drainage: Ensure that your home’s drainage system is working correctly to prevent water from pooling around your home’s foundation.
4. Install Sump Pumps: Sump pumps can help prevent flooding in your basement or crawlspace by pumping out excess water.

Checking your home’s plumbing infrastructure after heavy rainfall and flooding is crucial to prevent further damage and maintain your family’s health and safety. Look out for signs of plumbing issues, such as foul odors, slow draining water, and water damage. And while there are steps you can take on your own, don’t forget that you’re not alone –– here at Hank & Sons Plumbing, our team of professionals is ready to help. We have years of experience in the field and have a proven record of reliving results in the Pomona area. Get in touch today: 909-524-2906.