Here in California, we’re no strangers to natural disasters. From wildfires to earthquakes, making sure your home and family are as prepared as they can be for the next natural disaster is paramount. Let’s go over some things you can do to help prepare your home’s plumbing for an earthquake and things to check after one.
If you need a plumber in Irvine or elsewhere in the OC area, our plumbing technicians are at your disposal to help with any preventive maintenance tasks. For more than 30 years, Saddleback Plumbing Heating & Air has provided expert plumbing services to residents throughout Orange County.
What to Do Before the Next Earthquake
Secure Your Home’s Water Heater
Every home has a water heater, but not all homes have them properly secured in the event of an earthquake. Unfortunately, water heaters are particularly vulnerable during earthquakes. They can topple over, causing gas leaks, water damage, and even fires.
That’s why it’s legally required that water heaters be properly secured in the event of an earthquake. If you’re not sure whether your water heater is properly secured to the wall, contact us. This is something we can check for you and make sure that your water heater restraints are sufficient.
Get an Earthquake Emergency Shut-Off Valve
An emergency shut-off valve is essential in all southern California homes. This device instantly stops the flow of gas from the underground grid to your home in the event of an earthquake. Used together with excess valves to detect gas leaks, an earthquake valve doesn’t require a leak to shut off; it shuts off based on seismic activity, as a preventive measure. We can install a shut-off valve in your home.
Know Where Your Water and Gas Shut-Off Valves Are Located
In the event of an earthquake, you may need to turn off your water and gas lines. It’s essential to know not only where these are in your home, but how to turn them off. This is something that all family members should know how to do in case an adult isn’t home during an earthquake. Familiarize yourself with their locations and how to turn them off and make sure everyone in your family knows as well.
What to Do After the Next Earthquake
Check for Gas, Water, and Sewer Leaks
Once you know that everyone is safe in your home, it’s a good idea to check for potential damage to your gas line, water line, and main sewer line. Your sense of smell is what will alert you to potential gas or sewer line issues. Turn off the main gas line if you detect the smell of gas.
Check your home and property for discernible smells such as the odor of rotten eggs/sulfur, or the smell of raw sewage. Sewer line ruptures often become apparent through a puddle that crops up in your yard. If you suspect your sewer line has been affected, contact us promptly.
Lastly, look for any signs of water leaks in your home. Depending on the severity of the earthquake, it’s a good idea to shut off the main water line. Listen for the sound of running or dripping water and look for wet spots on walls and floors. A sudden change in water pressure can also be a sign of a broken pipe.
Contact Saddleback Plumbing Heating & Air for fast, professional plumbing services in Irvine, CA. We have served Orange County since 1981.