Living in Western North Carolina means experiencing the beauty of mountain landscapes, but it also means preparing for the occasional severe weather event. While we may not face the direct impact of hurricanes like coastal communities, the remnants of these powerful storms can still bring significant rainfall, flooding, and wind damage to our region. After the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in 2024, many homeowners throughout Buncombe County are taking hurricane preparation plumbing more seriously than ever before. Read here about our takeaways from Hurricane Helene.
At Barlow Plumbing Service, with over 25 years of experience serving the Western North Carolina community, we've helped countless homeowners recover from storm damage and implement preventative measures to protect their plumbing systems. While we truly do not expect another storm like Helene to come through in our lifetime, these preparations and practices are great to know in plumbing emergencies, and will help buffer you from plumbing problems during storms or other times.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential steps to prepare your home's plumbing for hurricane season and minimize potential damage.
Understanding the Risks to Your Plumbing System
Before diving into specific preparations, it's important to understand how hurricanes and severe storms can affect your home's plumbing system.
Common Plumbing Issues During Hurricanes
Hurricanes and severe storms can lead to several plumbing problems:
- Sewer backups: Heavy rainfall can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, causing wastewater to back up into homes through floor drains, toilets, and other low-lying fixtures.
- Water contamination: Flooding can compromise public water supplies, introducing harmful bacteria and other contaminants into your drinking water.
- Pipe damage: Strong winds can cause trees and debris to fall, potentially damaging exposed water lines. Rapidly shifting ground during floods can also stress underground pipes.
- Water heater damage: Flooding in basements or utility areas can damage water heaters, particularly their electrical components and gas controls.
- Drain clogs: Storm debris can enter and clog your home's drainage system, leading to backups and overflows.
- Pressure fluctuations: Storms can cause irregular water pressure in municipal systems, potentially damaging your home's plumbing fixtures and appliances.
Understanding these risks allows you to take targeted steps to protect your plumbing system before a storm hits. Read our post-hurricane plumbing inspection guide here.
Essential Plumbing Preparations Before Hurricane Season
Taking proactive measures before hurricane season can significantly reduce the risk of plumbing damage and post-storm complications. Here are essential steps to prepare your plumbing system:
1. Inspect and Clear Your Drainage Systems
One of the most important aspects of storm ready plumbing is ensuring your home's drainage systems are functioning properly.
Gutter and Downspout Maintenance
- Clean all gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow away from your home
- Check that downspout extensions direct water at least 3-5 feet away from your foundation
- Consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris accumulation during storms
- Ensure all gutter seams are sealed properly to prevent leakage along your home's exterior
Exterior Drain Inspection
- Clear all exterior drains of leaves, sticks, and debris
- Check for proper drainage in yard areas that tend to collect water
- Ensure driveway drains and culverts are free of obstructions
- Consider having professional drain cleaning for important exterior drains
Interior Drain Maintenance
- Have floor drains in basements, laundry rooms, and bathrooms professionally cleaned
- Consider installing drain covers to prevent debris from entering during cleanup efforts
- Check that all drain pipes are securely connected and show no signs of leakage
- Clear slow-draining sinks and tubs before storm season arrives
2. Protect Against Sewer Backups
Sewer backups are among the most unpleasant and damaging plumbing issues during severe weather events.
Backwater Valve Installation
If your home doesn't already have a backwater valve (also called a backflow preventer), consider having one professionally installed. This device allows sewage to flow out of your home but prevents it from flowing back in during flooding events.
Sump Pump Inspection and Backup
- Test your sump pump to ensure it's working properly
- Clean the sump pit of any debris that could clog the pump
- Consider installing a battery backup system for your sump pump to maintain operation during power outages
- For critical situations, a water-powered backup sump pump provides additional protection even when electricity is unavailable
Floor Drain Protection
- Install floor drain plugs in seldom-used drains during storm warnings
- Consider installing check valves on floor drains in flood-prone areas
- Keep drain covers clear of objects that could impede water flow when drains are needed
3. Secure Your Water Heater
Your water heater represents both a significant investment and a potential hazard during flooding events.
Elevation and Securing
- If your water heater is in a flood-prone area, consider having it elevated above the potential flood line
- Ensure the water heater is properly strapped and secured to prevent tipping during flooding or seismic activity
- Check that all connections are secure and flexible where appropriate to prevent breaks during building movement
Emergency Shutdown Preparation
- Know the location of your water heater's shutdown valve and how to operate it
- For gas water heaters, understand how to safely turn off the gas supply
- Consider labeling key valves with simple instructions for quick reference during emergencies
4. Prepare Your Water Supply System
Protecting your drinking water and preventing pipe damage are critical aspects of hurricane preparation plumbing.
Pipe Insulation and Protection
- Identify any exposed water pipes on your property that could be damaged by falling debris
- Consider adding additional insulation to pipes in vulnerable areas
- Secure outdoor hose bibs and spigots that could be damaged by high winds
Emergency Water Supply
- Clean and fill bathtubs for an emergency water supply (for flushing toilets, not drinking)
- Store at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day for a minimum of three days
- Consider investing in water purification methods (filters, purification tablets, etc.) for extended emergencies
Locate Your Main Water Shutoff Valve
- Ensure everyone in your household knows where the main water shutoff valve is located
- Check that the valve operates smoothly (older valves may need to be exercised or replaced if they're stiff)
- Consider installing a water leak detection system that can automatically shut off your water if leaks are detected
Actions to Take When a Storm Is Imminent
When a hurricane or severe storm is forecast for your area, take these additional steps to protect your plumbing system:
1. Shut Off Appropriate Water Systems
Depending on the severity of the expected storm, you may want to:
- Turn off water to exterior spigots and irrigation systems
- Shut off water supply to vulnerable appliances like washing machines and dishwashers
- In extreme cases, consider shutting off your main water supply if evacuation is planned
2. Secure Outdoor Plumbing Components
- Bring in garden hoses, sprinklers, and other loose plumbing items
- Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers for protection from debris
- Secure pool equipment and outdoor water features
3. Prepare Fixtures and Appliances
- Fill all sinks and tubs with fresh water for emergency supply
- Run dishwashers and washing machines before the storm arrives
- Consider turning off electric water heaters at the breaker panel to prevent damage during power fluctuations
4. Document Your Plumbing System
Take photos of your plumbing system, especially any recent improvements or areas of concern. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims if damage occurs.
After the Storm: Plumbing Safety and Recovery
Once the storm has passed, follow these steps to safely restore your plumbing system:
1. Water Safety Precautions
- Do not drink tap water until authorities declare it safe
- If you suspect contamination, boil water vigorously for at least one minute before use
- Check for water advisories in your specific area (Asheville, Black Mountain, Weaverville, etc.)
2. Inspect for Damage Before Restoration
Before restoring water service to your home:
- Check exposed pipes for damage, particularly where trees or debris may have fallen
- Look for signs of water leakage in ceilings, walls, and floors
- Inspect water-using appliances for signs of water intrusion before restoring power
3. Proper System Restoration
- Open faucets slowly to release air and check for leaks when restoring water service
- Flush toilets several times to ensure proper operation
- Run cold water from all faucets for several minutes to clear any sediment or air
- Follow manufacturer recommendations for restarting water heaters
4. When to Call a Professional
Some situations require professional assistance after a storm:
- Standing water in your home that may have contacted electrical systems
- Sewage backups or contaminated water in living spaces
- Water heaters that have been submerged or damaged
- Major leaks or pipe breaks that cannot be easily isolated
- Suspected damage to gas lines or gas-using appliances
Long-term Weather Protection for Your Plumbing System
Beyond immediate hurricane preparation, consider these long-term investments to make your plumbing system more resilient against severe weather:
1. Upgrade Vulnerable Components
- Replace outdated or deteriorating pipes, particularly in crawl spaces or exterior walls
- Upgrade to freeze-resistant hose bibs to prevent damage during temperature fluctuations
- Consider pressure-regulating valves to protect against municipal pressure surges during recovery operations
2. Implement Advanced Protection Systems
- Whole-house water filtration systems can provide an additional layer of protection against contaminated water
- Automatic water shutoff systems can detect unusual flow patterns and shut off water to prevent damage
- Backup generators or battery systems for critical plumbing components like sump pumps
3. Landscape for Water Management
- Direct water flow away from your home through appropriate grading and drainage
- Consider rain gardens or other landscape features that can absorb excess water
- Maintain trees properly to reduce the risk of fallen limbs damaging exterior plumbing
4. Regular Professional Maintenance
- Schedule annual plumbing inspections to identify potential vulnerabilities before storm season
- Have sewer lines professionally cleaned to prevent backups during heavy rainfall
- Maintain water heaters according to manufacturer recommendations to ensure reliability during emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Plumbing Preparation
How do I know if my water is safe to drink after a storm?
After a severe storm, follow guidance from local authorities regarding water safety. If you're unsure, boil water for at least one minute before using it for drinking or cooking. For the Asheville, Black Mountain, and Weaverville areas, check the municipal water authority websites or local emergency management announcements for specific advisories.
Should I turn off my water heater during a hurricane?
If flooding is expected in the area where your water heater is located, it's advisable to shut off both the power/gas and water supply to the unit. For electric water heaters, turn off the dedicated circuit breaker. For gas water heaters, know how to safely turn off the gas supply valve. This can prevent more serious damage and dangerous conditions.
How can I protect my pipes if I need to evacuate during a storm?
If evacuation is necessary, consider shutting off your home's main water supply valve before leaving. This can prevent extensive water damage if pipes break during the storm. In colder months, you may also want to drain your plumbing system by opening faucets after shutting off the main valve to prevent freezing damage.
What's the difference between a backflow preventer and a check valve?
Both devices prevent water from flowing backward in your plumbing system, but they serve different purposes. Backflow preventers are typically installed on the main water line to prevent contaminated water from entering your home's clean water supply. Check valves are simpler devices often used on specific drain lines to prevent sewer backups into fixtures like floor drains or basement plumbing.
How often should I have my sump pump tested?
Test your sump pump at least twice per year, ideally before spring and fall rainy seasons. Additionally, perform a quick test before any major predicted storm event. Testing involves pouring water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates properly and removes the water efficiently.
Is flood insurance worth it if I don't live in a designated flood zone?
Many homeowners in Western North Carolina discovered during Hurricane Helene that significant flooding can occur outside of designated flood zones. Standard homeowners insurance typically doesn't cover flooding damage, so flood insurance may be worth considering even if you're not in a high-risk zone, especially if your property has any history of water issues or is near any body of water.
Conclusion
Proper hurricane preparation for your plumbing system requires a combination of preventative maintenance, strategic upgrades, and knowing what actions to take before, during, and after a storm. By implementing the recommendations in this guide, you can significantly reduce the risk of plumbing-related damage and ensure your home's systems remain functional even during severe weather events.
Whether you need help implementing any of the protective measures discussed in this article or assistance recovering from storm damage, our team of licensed plumbing professionals is ready to help. Contact Barlow Plumbing today to schedule a consultation or service appointment.