Common Plumbing Problems in the Pacific Northwest Rain
After a good hard storm you may find water has pooled by your foundation. The rain coming off the Sound and your basement takes on a musty odour? Or are the drains backing up with some regularity in this wet season?
You would be hard pressed to find anyone in the Greater Seattle area who has not had such an experience; we do not make light of the fact that our way of life here puts a strain on home plumbing. We at South West Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric have an idea of what all the rainfall can do, having put Puget Sound homeowners at ease since 1982. Should you have a rain induced plumbing issue on your hands, give us a ring at (253) 642-8810.
The pipes, sewer lines and drains of a house in the Pacific Northwest will absorb much of the moisture from the climate. But there is value in being aware of the usual suspects so as to nip any trouble in the bud. We will go over what we come across.
Backed-Up Drains and Sewer Lines Under Stress
Put down enough rain for long enough and the ground about your property is going to be saturated. The surplus water makes its way to your drain and sewer systems where it can cause a backup or at best slow things down.
If the weather is having an effect on your sewer line or drains you will see it:
- Backing up of water in the tub, sink or floor drain
- Toilets and drains making a gurgling noise
- A number of drains in the house running slow
- The smell of sewage in the yard or near a drain
- Pools of water outside around the cleanout caps
A backed-up sewer line is not something that will remedy itself and only gets worse as one storm follows another. You would do well to get a professional in before the next heavy rain if you spot these telltale signs.
When Sump Pumps Give Out
In this part of the country a sump pump is what many a homeowner depends on to bar groundwater from the crawl space or basement. It is put to work overtime when the rains are heavy and should it fail, water levels can be quick to rise.
You will know a sump pump is not up to the task if it is running non stop, is noisy or has quit working. They are most called upon in the worst of the wet weather which is when they are prone to act up. Make it a point to test yours before the rainy season is in full swing.
Tree Roots and Your Pipes
Our region is green thanks to the rain, but tree roots are after that water and the nutrients in your sewer and drain lines. Given time they will infiltrate the smallest of cracks and joints in the pipe and block it.
For an older home in the Seattle area root intrusion is a frequent culprit behind backups that seem to come back. If you have some sizeable trees on your land and the same drain issues persist, look no further.
Leakage and Foundation Drainage
An accumulation of water around the foundation exerts its pressure on the pipes and everything else below ground, allowing moisture to seep in and causing leaks or shifting. Dampness on the walls or floor of the basement, or a musty air, is indicative of a drainage problem.
One can mitigate this with clear gutters and downspouts pointed away from the house, but once water is inside it is prudent to have the plumbing examined for any concealed leaks.
Preempting Trouble from the Rain
Some prevention is warranted in our climate. We recommend the following to shield your home:
- Periodic inspection and cleaning of the sewer line
- Put your sump pump through its paces ahead of the wet season
- Debris should be removed from downspouts and gutters
- Do not let slow drains go unattended
- Routine maintenance to put an end to small problems
Our Bill’s Comfort Club plan is of assistance in this regard. With priority scheduling, discounts and no fees for members it is easier to stay ahead of the elements. We also have financing options for more substantial repairs.
It is nice to have a team you can rely on when the weather brings plumbing woe. South West Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is your WA licensed (Contractor #SOUTHWP807OJ) and insured contractor, BBB-accredited and we stand behind our Guaranteed Satisfaction. We service every make and model and provide 24/7 emergency response without an extra charge for the call. Our quotes are straightforward so there is no guessing. Call (253) 642-8810 today and we will see to it your home stays dry.
