Plumbing Preparation for Power Loss
Steps to Avoid a Plumbing Disaster
Homes in the Rochester, NY area are subject to power loss due to the current weather conditions. We are often at risk of power outages due to wind storms, ice storms, fallen trees, and even car accidents. Many plumbing functions rely on electricity, but there are steps that you can take to avoid a plumbing disaster during a power outage.
Pipe Burst
A pipe burst is a major concern at this time of the year, due to freezing temperatures. When your electricity goes out, temperatures in your home can drop drastically, causing your pipes to freeze. If the pipes are frozen for too long, the pipes can burst and cause major damage to your home.
Flooded Basement
A sump pump protects your basement from incurring water damage, however, the motor of the sump pump runs on electricity. It is a good idea to have a backup generator or a backup sump pump. Backup sump pumps can either be water-powered or battery powered. They will replace your primary sump pump while the power is out (or if it ever fails for any reason) and protect your basement from water damage. Click here for more information on why you should install a backup sump pump.
Tankless Water Heater
Electric powered and gas-powered tankless water heaters rely on electricity to keep them running. Gas water heaters do not rely on electricity as a fuel source, but they do have a control panel that is powered by electricity, which it relies on to function. When the tap water is turned to hot, an electrical source ignites the source of fuel to heat the water traveling through the tap. To prevent a sudden surge of electricity to the fuel source on the tankless, turn off your circuit breaker until power is restored. If you do not already have a tankless water heater, click here for more information about tankless water heater.
Proactively Prepare
Power loss issues are sometimes inevitable, but you can prepare your plumbing to protect your home from any catastrophe related to a power outage. A backup generator will allow you to use your sump pump, tankless water heater, and heat your home to prevent frozen pipes. Another option is a backup sump pump to avoid any worry about flooding in your basement. Although the water in your home may be dependent on electricity, they are a huge hazard when used improperly together. Always turn off all circuit boxes in your basement during a power outage to protect you from electrical damage in the event that your basement does flood.
For help preparing your home for a power outage, call your neighborhood plumber, Pride Plumbing at (585) 271-7150 or click here to schedule an appointment online.
