Neighbor News
Before the Rains Come: A Plumber's Guide to Preventing Flooding in LA
After a long, dry summer, the first big storm can overwhelm your drains. Here are a few simple checks to protect your property from Damage.
Hello neighbors,
In Los Angeles, we know our weather patterns well: long, dry spells followed by short, intense periods of rain. While the rain is always welcome, that first big downpour can catch homeowners by surprise, leading to clogged drains and even localized flooding around your property.
Here are a few tips to make sure your home's drainage system is ready to handle the rainy season.
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1. Clear Your Gutters and Area Drains
Throughout the summer and fall, leaves, dirt, and other debris accumulate on your roof and on the ground. When the rains come, all of that gets washed directly into your gutters and area drains. If they are already partially clogged, they can quickly overflow, sending water pooling against your home's foundation. A simple sweep and clearing of visible debris can make a huge difference.
2. Test Your Sump Pump
If your home has a basement or a below-ground-level crawl space, you may have a sump pump designed to pump out excess water. Don't wait for a storm to find out if it's working! You can test it by slowly pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should kick on automatically, pump the water out, and then shut off. If it doesn't, it needs servicing.
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3. Pay Attention to Slow Drains
Are your sinks or showers draining slower than they used to? This is a warning sign. Slow drains indicate a partial clog in your system, often from grease buildup or tree roots invading the pipe. This problem will only get worse when a large volume of storm water is trying to rush through those same pipes. Addressing it now can prevent a messy and expensive backup later.
A little preventative maintenance can save you from a major headache and costly water damage repairs. If you've noticed slow drains or want a professional to ensure your lines are clear before the wet weather hits, it's a good idea to act now.
The team at Hi-Tech Plumbing & Services Inc. provides professional preventative maintenance to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.
