By Justin Wilder, Owner of Wild Water Plumbing
Living in Jacksonville, NC, we understand hurricanes aren’t a “maybe,” they’re a part of life.
The City has already issued reminders for everyone to prepare ahead of the storm, and I would like to share some plumbing-focused steps that can help you avoid costly water damage and headaches.
Hurricanes don’t just bring wind; they bring flooding, storm surges, and power outages that put extra strain on your home’s plumbing.
Secure Your Home’s Plumbing Before the Storm
Test and Maintain Your Sump Pump
If you live in an area prone to flooding or have a basement or crawl space a sump pump is your first line of defense.
Test it by pouring water into the pit to make sure it activates and pumps correctly. If it doesn’t, call us before the storm hits.
Consider a battery backup system or generator connection since most flooding happens when the power is out.
Clear Gutters, Drains, and Downspouts
Clogged gutters or storm drains can send water right back toward your home’s foundation.
Take a few minutes to remove leaves, sticks, and dirt. Keeping water moving away from your property helps protect your slab, pipes, and crawl space.
Protect Outdoor Plumbing
Hoses, irrigation systems, and outdoor faucets can easily be damaged by wind or flying debris.
Shut off outdoor water supply lines, drain them if possible, and disconnect hoses.
Not only does this prevent damage, but it also reduces the chance of pressurized water leaks during the storm.
Reduce Flooding and Sewer Backup Risks
Seal and Protect Low-Level Openings
If your home has a crawl space or basement, check for cracks in the walls or floors and seal them with waterproofing material.
Lay down sandbags around doorways or other low-level openings where water might enter.
Prevent Sewer Backups
Heavy rainfall often overwhelms municipal sewer systems. If your home has a backflow preventer, test it before the storm.
If you don’t have one and you live in a flood-prone part of Jacksonville, now’s the time to call a licensed plumber to discuss installing one.
It can save your home from sewage coming back through drains and toilets.
Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
Every Jacksonville homeowner should know exactly where their main water shut-off valve is located.
If a pipe bursts or floodwater threatens to overwhelm your plumbing, shutting off the water quickly can prevent extensive damage.
Emergency Prep Checklist (Plumbing Edition)
Along with food, flashlights, and medical supplies, don’t forget these plumbing essentials:
- Clean water storage: Store at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day for three days. Fill bathtubs and sinks ahead of time for cleaning or flushing toilets.
- Plumbing repair kit: Keep plumber’s tape, a small pipe wrench, and a bucket handy for minor emergencies.
- Toilets: If the sewer system fails, consider lining a trash can with heavy-duty bags as a temporary backup.
- Extra towels and sandbags: Place them near doors and drains to absorb or block sudden water intrusion.
Stay Connected and Informed
Jacksonville encourages residents to sign up for Jacksonville Connect, the city’s emergency messaging system. This will alert you to road closures, power outages, boil water advisories, and shelter openings.
You can also review resources at https://jacksonvillenc.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1588 for up-to-date storm prep guidance.
Final Thoughts
As a U.S. Navy Veteran and a plumber who’s helped families across Onslow County, I can tell you that preparation is everything.
Taking a few steps now to secure your plumbing system could mean the difference between a dry home and thousands in water damage.
At Wild Water Plumbing, we’re ready to help you with:
- Sump pump testing and installation
- Drain and sewer line inspections
- Emergency plumbing support before and after storms
Don’t wait until the first rain bands arrive.
Call Wild Water Plumbing today, and let’s make sure your home is hurricane-ready.
Stay safe and prepared, Jacksonville.
– Justin Wilder, Owner
📞 Call or text me directly at (910) 750-2312 to schedule your storm check today.
Wild Water Plumbing—Local, Veteran-Owned, and Always Ready.
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