How can I prepare my plumbing before a hurricane?

Clear gutters and drains, test your sump pump, and drain outdoor faucets to minimize flood risk. Store clean water in tubs and containers in case of service interruptions.

What plumbing problems should I look for after a hurricane?

Watch for cloudy water, air in your lines, sewage backup, or slow drains. These can indicate contamination, broken pipes, or blockages that require immediate professional assistance.

What should I do to protect my plumbing before, during, and after a hurricane?

Q: Should I shut off my water during a hurricane?

If you evacuate, turn off both your main water valve and your water heater. This prevents contaminated water from entering your home and protects the heater from running dry.

September 12, 2023

Before, during, and after a hurricane, simple plumbing precautions can help prevent flooding, protect your water supply, and reduce the risk of major damage. A few proactive steps—like checking drainage, confirming your sump pump basics, and shutting off key valves—can make your home much safer when severe weather hits.

TL;DR

Clear gutters and drains so stormwater can flow away from your home.
Test your sump pump early and schedule repairs before heavy rain arrives.
Shut off the main water valve and water heater if you evacuate.
After the storm, watch for cloudy water, sewage backup, or slow drains.
If flooding or hidden damage occurs, call for emergency plumbing service.

Here in the Boston area we don’t get very many hurricanes. When we do, it’s important to be prepared. In addition to the normal preparations for disaster, there are steps you can take to minimize damage to your home’s plumbing.

1. Stay informed

This article is not a comprehensive guide to hurricane preparedness and safety. Some resources that will help you prepare overall are:

Ready.gov is a national website with information and resources on how to prepare for emergencies.
Sign up for emergency alerts in your area.

2. Before the hurricane

Clearing out leaves, debris, and obstructions from around your gutters and drainpipes helps rainwater drain properly and reduces the risk of flooding. You should also check to make sure your sump pump basics are covered and that the pump is working correctly. If you need to have a sump pump installed or repaired, we can help.

You can also fill your bathtub with water during the hours before the storm hits. This provides a reserve for washing and flushing if your water supply becomes temporarily unavailable.

3. During the hurricane

See the article on Ready.gov for information on how to stay safe during the storm. If you are asked to evacuate, please do so immediately. Before leaving, turn off your main water valve and your hot water heater. This prevents contaminated water from entering the home and protects the heater from running dry if water flow is interrupted.

4. After the hurricane

If you have a flood, call us for emergency plumbing service.

If you notice any of the following less obvious conditions, call us immediately:

Cloudy water, which may indicate contamination.
Water with bubbles, which can mean trapped air caused by a broken pipe or clog.
Sewage backup, which is hazardous and needs urgent attention.
Clogged or slow drains, a sign of debris buildup in your pipes.

Call McMahon Plumbing at 617-364-2200 if you have any questions!

Categories: Emergency Plumbing