March 28, 2023
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Unpleasant Odors: If you notice a foul
smell coming from your drains or sewage system, it could be a sign of blockages
or damage.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- Install Backflow Prevention Devices:
Installing backflow prevention devices can help prevent sewage from backing up
into your home.
- Proper Drainage: Ensure that your
home’s drainage system is working correctly to prevent water from pooling
around your home’s foundation.
- 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.