Nevada’s monsoon season, typically running from July through September, can bring sudden, intense rainfall and flash floods in the surrounding desert communities. While these storms can offer relief from the dry summer heat, they also pose serious risks to your home’s plumbing and drainage systems.
Heavy rains can overwhelm drains, back up sewers, and even flood basements or crawlspaces if proper precautions aren’t in place. As your local plumbing experts, we’re here to help you get ahead of the storm with practical tips to prepare your plumbing before the clouds roll in.
Inspect and Maintain Your Sump Pump
If your home has a basement or sits in a low-lying area, your sump pump is your first line of defense against water damage. During monsoon season, a properly functioning sump pump can prevent rainwater from flooding your basement or crawlspace.
- Test your sump pump: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates and drains the water properly.
- Check the backup power supply: Monsoon storms often come with lightning or power outages. If you don’t already have one, consider installing a battery backup system to keep your sump pump running even when the lights go out.
- Clean the pit and pump intake: Debris buildup can cause clogs or reduced performance. Keep the sump area clear before storms hit.
If your home doesn’t have a sump pump but is vulnerable to flooding, now is the time to talk to our team about installing one.
Clear Outdoor Drains and Gutters
Clogged or poorly directed rainwater can lead to serious plumbing problems, including water pooling near your foundation or backing into your home.
- Clean out gutters and downspouts: Remove leaves, dirt, and debris to ensure proper flow. Make sure downspouts are angled away from your home’s foundation by at least three feet.
- Check storm drains and yard drains: If you have yard or French drains, make sure they are clear of sediment and obstructions. A clogged drain can quickly lead to water buildup and soil erosion near plumbing lines.
- Add gutter extensions if needed: This helps divert water further away from the house during a heavy downpour.
Prevent Sewer Backups
One often overlooked but costly danger during monsoon rains is sewer system overload.
- Install a backwater valve: This device automatically stops sewage from flowing backward into your home’s plumbing system during a flood.
- Schedule a sewer line inspection: A camera inspection can reveal cracks, root intrusions, or blockages that make your line more vulnerable during heavy rains.
- Avoid flushing during storms: If your area is prone to sewer backup, avoid using large amounts of water during peak rainfall to reduce pressure on the system.
Protect Exposed Pipes and Vents
Inspect all exposed pipes, especially those on your roof or around irrigation systems.
- Secure outdoor piping: Ensure sprinkler lines, pool plumbing, and irrigation controls are properly fastened and shielded.
- Check roof vents: Strong winds and rain can dislodge or damage vent stacks, which could lead to drainage issues inside your home.
- Cover exterior hose bibs: While freezing isn’t the concern here, heavy rainfall can pool around these connections and create pressure in your lines.
Trusted plumbing & HVAC solutions from Charles Chester – Keeping your home running right. Give us a call to schedule your services today!
