How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Hurricane Season

Living on Florida's Space Coast means enjoying beautiful beaches, warm weather, and year-round sunshine. It also means preparing for hurricane season every year from June through November. While most homeowners focus on boarding windows and stocking supplies, your plumbing system needs attention too. Proper hurricane plumbing preparation can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage and ensure your home's plumbing survives the storm.

Why Hurricane Plumbing Preparation Matters

Hurricanes bring multiple threats to your plumbing system: flooding, sewage backups, power outages, and physical damage from wind and debris. A little preparation before the storm can prevent major problems after it passes. In Brevard County, we've seen storms cause everything from burst pipes to contaminated water supplies, and the homeowners who are prepared always fare better.

Start Preparing Before Hurricane Season

Don't wait until a storm is approaching to think about your plumbing. The best time to prepare is during the off-season when you have time to address issues calmly and when contractors aren't overwhelmed with emergency calls.

Inspect Your Plumbing System

Schedule a professional plumbing inspection in early spring, before hurricane season begins. A qualified plumber can identify vulnerable points in your system, check for existing leaks, test your sump pump if you have one, and ensure all shut-off valves are functioning properly.

Small problems become big problems during hurricanes. A minor leak can turn into a burst pipe when water pressure fluctuates during a storm. Addressing these issues beforehand protects your home and gives you peace of mind.

Know Your Main Water Shut-Off

Every household member should know where the main water shut-off valve is located and how to operate it. In most Florida homes, it's near where the water line enters the house or near the water heater. Test it now to ensure it turns freely. Corroded or stuck valves should be replaced before hurricane season.

Install Backflow Prevention Devices

Sewage backups are one of the most unpleasant hurricane-related plumbing disasters. When storm drains and sewer systems become overwhelmed, sewage can flow backward into your home through drains and toilets. Backflow prevention devices, also called check valves, install in your main sewer line and prevent this reverse flow.

One Week Before the Storm

When a hurricane watch is issued for Brevard County, it's time to implement your plumbing preparation plan.

24-48 Hours Before the Storm

As the hurricane approaches, take these final plumbing preparation steps:

• Turn off individual fixtures in vulnerable areas using under-sink shut-off valves.
• Protect against sewage backup by plugging drains in lower-level bathrooms and laundry rooms.
• Document your plumbing system with photos and videos for insurance purposes.
• Consider turning off your main water supply if you're evacuating or the storm is particularly severe.

After the Hurricane: Safety First

Once the storm passes, resist the urge to immediately turn everything back on. Hurricane-related plumbing problems often emerge in the aftermath.

Inspect Before You Restore Service

Before turning your water supply back on, inspect all visible plumbing for damage. Look for broken pipes, damaged fixtures, and signs of sewage backup. If you see significant damage, keep the water off and call a professional plumber.

Watch for Contaminated Water

Local authorities will issue boil-water notices if the municipal water supply might be contaminated. Follow these notices strictly. Boil water for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth.

Check for Gas Leaks

If you smell gas near your water heater or other gas appliances, evacuate immediately and call your gas company. Never attempt to turn gas back on yourself if you've shut it off.

Test Your System Gradually

When restoring water service, turn the main valve on slowly and listen for unusual sounds. Check all fixtures and visible pipes for leaks. Run water in sinks and showers for a few minutes to clear any debris from the lines.

Special Considerations for Brevard County

Our location on the Space Coast creates unique hurricane plumbing preparation needs. Coastal flooding and storm surge can overwhelm drainage systems, and our high water table means even minor flooding can cause major issues.

If your home is in a flood-prone area, consider installing a sump pump system before hurricane season. For homes with septic systems, hurricane preparation includes ensuring your septic tank and drain field are in good condition.