Ready Your Drains for El Nino

El Niño is on its way, whether we like it or not. The best defense is preparation; follow these tips to make sure your home is in tiptop shape once the rains come.

Before the rainy season sets in be sure to have your gutters, downspouts and area drains cleaned. The job of your gutters, downspouts and area drains is to deter water away from your home and prevent flooding.

While you’re at it, inspect your gutters and downspouts to make sure they are in good condition, and make any necessary repairs. Do the same with your area drains. Check the grate above the drain and make sure it is not covered with mud and debris.

Check your sump pump. During heavy rainfall, even areas that have excellent drainage systems can get overwhelmed. This can lead to flooding in below-grade spaces like basements and garages. If you already have a sump pump, make sure it is in good working condition. If you don’t have sump pump you may want to consider have one installed.

Be sure to have your HVAC unit inspected and repaired before your need it. Also, make sure water heaters in basements are raised up, so the pilot light isn’t sitting in waters should it flood in that area.

For issues other than plumbing, check for leaks at your roof and paint wood trim around the outside of your home to help prevent leaks.

Stay high and dry this season and make sure your home is ready.

For more help getting your home storm-ready contact Keithley Plumbing at www.keithleyplumbing.com/ or by calling (626) 449-0387. They are located at 3579 E Foothill Blvd #227, Pasadena.