In Orlando, Florida, tropical storms don’t just affect roofs, windows, and electricity. They also leave hidden consequences in one of the home’s most essential systems: plumbing.
After a strong storm, it’s crucial to perform a thorough inspection of the plumbing system. In this article, we explain how to properly inspect your system and what basic maintenance tasks can help you avoid major damage, unnecessary costs, and future complications.
Why Inspect the Plumbing System After a Tropical Storm?
Even if not immediately visible, tropical storms can cause serious damage to pipes, drains, and valves. Key reasons to perform a post-storm inspection include:
- Infiltration of contaminated water
- Increased pressure in the lines due to sudden flow changes
- Blockages caused by debris or displaced tree roots
- Cracking of underground pipes due to ground movement
Timely inspection helps prevent future leaks, health issues, and structural damage to your home.
Practical Inspection Guide After a Tropical Storm
- Check the Functioning of External Drains
Inspect gutters, downspouts, and yard drains. If they’re clogged with leaves, branches, or mud, remove the debris immediately. Standing water can damage your home’s foundation and cause interior leaks. - Observe Water Color and Pressure
When you turn on faucets, check if the water is cloudy, smells strange, or has irregular pressure. This could indicate contamination in the system or broken pipes. - Listen for Unusual Noises in the Pipes
Banging, vibrations, or humming sounds can signal trapped air, displaced pipes, or pressure changes caused by sediment intrusion. - Inspect the Water Heater
If the heater was exposed to the elements or experienced power outages, check that it’s working properly. If unsure, have a technician inspect the connections.
Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Future Damage
After inspection, it’s recommended to perform certain maintenance tasks to reinforce your plumbing system:
Professional Drain System Cleaning
A deep cleaning with the proper equipment can remove sediment, mud, or roots that entered during the storm. This helps prevent clogs and foul odors.
Check Backflow Prevention Valves
In areas like Orlando, it’s important to have backflow valves to prevent sewage from reentering your home. These should be checked and tested after each storm.
Seal Possible Leak Points
Pipe joints, traps, and visible connections should be properly sealed to prevent future leaks.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even if you don’t see obvious problems, a certified plumber can use a camera inspection to detect internal damage not visible to the naked eye.
Tropical storms in Orlando may pass in a matter of hours, but the damage they leave behind in your home’s plumbing can last for months if not detected in time. A thorough inspection and preventive maintenance will give you peace of mind and keep your home safe.
Don’t wait for a leak or bad odor to appear. If you’ve just experienced a storm, contact plumbing experts in Orlando, Florida, and ensure your home’s well-being.
