After enduring the impact of two powerful hurricanes, we know your primary concern is the well-being of your family and home. The aftermath of a storm can be overwhelming, and as you begin to assess the damage, it’s important to also consider what might not be immediately visible—your home’s plumbing and HVAC systems. These systems play a vital role in your home’s comfort and safety, and ensuring they’re in proper working order is crucial.
We’ve put together a checklist to help you carefully evaluate your plumbing and HVAC systems after a hurricane. Take it one step at a time, and know that if you need assistance, Plumbing & Cooling Nerds is here to support you in getting your home back to normal.
Initial Safety Precautions
Before checking your plumbing and HVAC systems, prioritize safety. Hurricanes can compromise your plumbing or HVAC systems along with parts of your roof or electrical equipment. This combination poses several hazards.
- Ensure the power is off before inspecting any systems
- Look for visible damage to plumbing or HVAC equipment before touching them
- Do not touch any equipment with damaged electrical wiring
- Do not go near electrically-powered equipment if your electrical panel or lines are damaged
- Avoid inspecting equipment located beneath trees or branches that have been damaged by storms
- If you smell gas or hear hissing sounds, evacuate immediately and call your gas company
Plumbing System Checklist
Flooding and high winds can cause significant plumbing issues. Here’s what to look for in the aftermath of a hurricane.
1. Check for Leaks and Burst Pipes
Even minor flooding can lead to broken pipes. Inspect your property for signs of water leakage or moisture, such as damp spots or water stains on walls, floors, and ceilings. You can also go room-to-room to listen for dripping sounds, especially near basements and crawl spaces. Outside, check faucets and hose bibs for cracks, leaking, or other signs of damage.
2. Test Water Pressure
Heavy rains from hurricanes can bring debris like leaves, mud, roots, and even trash into storm drains and pipes. Low water pressure can signal pipe blockages or leaks caused by all that debris. Turn on faucets throughout your home and note any pressure changes. Watch for fluctuating pressure or noticeably low pressure, which could indicate a blockage in the water lines.
3. Inspect Sewer Lines
Storm surges can back up sewer systems, leading to clogs or overflows. Look for slow-draining water in sinks, tubs, and toilets. Also, check for foul odors from drains or in your yard. Pooling water in the yard, especially near drain pipes, is another red flag. Even without pooling, extra-soft sections of ground could indicate underground sewer issues.
Since sewer problems can become severe if left untreated, contact Plumbing & Cooling Nerds immediately for a professional sewer line inspection if you notice any signs of trouble.
4. Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater may have been affected by floodwaters or power surges. If it was partially or fully submerged, it’s crucial to have it inspected by a professional before use.
- Stability—ensure the unit is upright and secure
- Rust or damage on the tank, lines, and valves
- Leaks—look for pooling water around the tank or dripping from lines or valves
- Consistent hot water—test the temperature to ensure it’s safe and stable
If you notice any issues, have a professional inspect your water heater. At Plumbing & Cooling Nerds, our expert plumbers can assess the damage and make any needed repairs. If the damage is severe or the unit was submerged, we’ll provide our honest opinion on whether to repair it or suggest a replacement.
Water Contamination Concerns
Hurricanes can cause water supply contamination due to flooding or damaged pipes. Before using your water, bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute before drinking or cooking with it. Only use the water once local authorities confirm it’s safe. If you have a water filtration system, check it for damage or clogs. Watch for sediment or discoloration, which can signal contamination.
If you suspect your water system was compromised, Plumbing & Cooling Nerds offers water testing services. If your water is unsafe, we can install, maintain, or repair water filtration systems to make it safe for your family. Keep in mind, contamination could also stem from plumbing or sewer system damage, so fixing the root cause is essential. In some cases, professional plumbers can resolve this, while others may require government action. Always follow official announcements about water safety after a hurricane.
HVAC System Checklist
Outdoor HVAC units are vulnerable to high winds and debris. Hurricane damage to your HVAC system can be costly if not addressed quickly. Here’s what to check after the storm.
1. Inspect Outdoor Units
- Visible damage like bent fins or disconnected parts
- Clogged or dirty condenser coils from leaves or debris
- Damage to electrical connections or refrigerant lines
- Leaking coolant, which may be hard to see or detect by smell. A professional should be called to confirm refrigerant leaks
If any parts are damaged, it’s best to call a qualified team for HVAC repair. Running the system while it’s compromised can lead to further damage.
2. Test the System
Once you’ve inspected and power is restored, turn on your HVAC system and observe its performance. Check if it’s running normally without strange noises. Ensure air is circulating properly through all vents and monitor temperature fluctuations. Make sure the thermostat responds to your adjustments.
If the system isn’t working as it should, it may have sustained electrical or mechanical damage during the storm.
3. Inspect Ductwork
Ducts can be compromised by flooding or debris. If your home experienced water damage, check for visible gaps or leaks in duct connections. Watch for signs of mold or mildew in damp areas, and check for debris blocking airflows, such as leaves or insulation. Blocked or leaky ducts can drastically reduce HVAC efficiency and indoor air quality, as dust and contaminants can be pushed into your home. If you notice these issues, it’s time for a professional duct inspection and repair.
Do I Need a Professional Plumbing or HVAC Inspection?
Even if your plumbing and HVAC systems seem intact, it’s a good idea to schedule a post-hurricane inspection. At Plumbing & Cooling Nerds, we provide thorough plumbing and HVAC inspections to ensure your home is safe and comfortable after a storm. For over 15 years, we’ve helped Southwest Florida homeowners recover from hurricanes quickly. Our certified technicians and plumbers are ready to help, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our work. We also offer emergency plumbing and emergency HVAC solutions, too!
Minor plumbing and HVAC damage can quickly turn into costly repairs or hazards to your family. Contact Plumbing & Cooling Nerds today for a thorough post-hurricane inspection in Southwest Florida.
