1- Clear Storm Drains

Storm drains are exactly what they sound like, drains to divert excess water. Over time these drains can get clogged with leaves, trash, and other debris, which can prevent water from properly draining. Make sure your storm drains are free from clutter so water can drain freely.

2- Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts serve to divert water away from your home and more importantly, your home’s foundation. Excess water can wreak havoc on your home’s foundation, which can lead to very expensive repairs. Gutters and downspouts can get clogged with leave and other debris, which can prevent water from flowing. In addition, a damaged gutter or downspout is no good, and can lead to flooding.  

3- Sump Pump

Sump pumps are designed to prevent flooding during heavy rain. When water enters the crock of the sump pump, it activates and pumps the water out. If you don’t have a sump pump, and live in a flood zone, you may want to get one. If you already have one, test it to make sure it works by pouring some water into the crock to make sure it activates. A sump pump with a battery backup is the best choice, since heavy rains are a lot of the time accompanied with power loss.  

4- Install Backflow Prevention Device

Backflow often occurs after a heavy rain storm. A lot of dirt and debris can get swept into the sewer system during a heavy storm, which can overwhelm the sewer system. This can result in a backflow issue. Backflow is messy and gross and the last thing anybody wants. Backflow can be cause a lot of damage, leading to expensive repairs. A backflow prevention device is designed to prevent untreated sewer water from entering the home. It is important to remember that while in use, toilets cannot be flushed and other water using appliances cannot be used. A backflow prevention device typically costs a couple of hundred bucks, but is well worth its price.

5- Sandbags

Sandbags are used to direct the flow of water, and can be instrumental to prevent flooding during heavy rain. However, it is important to pay attention to the lay of the land when using them. Improper setup could result in trapping water where you don’t want it, instead of diverting the water away. Sandbags are inexpensive, and are good to have on hand just in case.  

6- Clogged Drains

Heavy rains can cause an upset for your plumbing. It isn’t uncommon that many households are faced with a clogged drain after heavy rain. You may want to have your drains professionally cleaned after heavy rains to alleviate clogs.   For more tips to prevent flooding during heavy rain or to schedule your drain cleaning contact Rooter Hero today! We are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week, to tackle any plumbing emergency! 

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