As residents of South Carolina, we understand the potential impact hurricanes can have on our communities. Charleston, in particular, faces unique risks during hurricane season. While many homeowners focus on securing their homes and stocking up on supplies, it’s important not to overlook the preparedness of your plumbing system. 

Here are the best ways homeowners in Charleston can prepare their plumbing system for hurricane season to minimize damage and ensure functionality during and after a hurricane.

Understanding the Risks

Hurricanes in South Carolina can create a lot of damage. They bring heavy rainfall and storm surges, which can significantly stress plumbing systems. 

The excess water can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to backups and flooding. Additionally, power outages are common during hurricanes, which can further compromise your plumbing’s functionality. 

Simply understanding these risks as a homeowner will help you take the necessary precautions.

Clearing and Securing the Outdoor Area

Getting ahead of the problem goes a long way to protecting the plumbing in your Charleston home. Before a hurricane hits, it’s essential to clear your outdoor area of potential debris that could clog gutters, downspouts, and outdoor faucets. 

Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent water backups and ensure proper drainage. Secure or remove outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become projectiles and damage your plumbing system during strong winds.

Protecting Indoor Plumbing

The next thing Charleston homeowners should do to prepare during a hurricane is to protect their indoor plumbing. 

Locating and shutting off the main water supply is crucial in an emergency. Familiarize yourself with the shut-off valve and double-check that all family members know its location. 

You should also regularly inspect and maintain your sump pump to prevent basement flooding. Additionally, check your backflow prevention devices to ensure they are working correctly; this will help you avoid sewage backups.

Safeguarding Appliances and Fixtures

Finally, work to safeguard your appliances and fixtures. Secure and elevate appliances like water heaters and HVAC systems to minimize flood damage. Raising them above the potential water line can prevent costly repairs or replacements. 

You can also protect toilets, sinks, and bathtubs from sewer backups by installing backwater valves and sewer plugs. These preventive measures will keep sewage from entering your home during heavy rains. In turn, you’ll minimize mess and damage to the plumbing in your Charleston home.

Choose Preferred Home Services for Plumbing Service in South Carolina

Preparing your plumbing system for hurricane season is an often overlooked part of preparing for a hurricane. By understanding the risks, clearing and securing the outdoor area, protecting indoor plumbing, and safeguarding appliances and fixtures, you can minimize potential damage to the plumbing in your Charleston home. You will also better ensure your plumbing system works during and after a hurricane.

At Preferred Home Services, we are committed to your complete comfort and safety. Our licensed and insured technicians, with their high level of passion and care, are here to assist you in preparing your plumbing system for hurricane season. For any plumbing needs in Charleston, SC, don’t hesitate to contact a member of our friendly team.

Call us at (843) 405-3601 to schedule your plumbing services in Charleston today.