Commercial Plumber: How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Cyclones in New Zealand
Commercial Plumber: How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Cyclones in New Zealand
Cyclones are becoming increasingly common and intense in New Zealand, and the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle serves as a stark reminder of how vulnerable homes can be during severe weather. One of the most overlooked areas during storm preparation is the plumbing system. However, being proactive can help prevent serious damage, costly repairs, and health hazards. At Laser Plumbing Wellington East, we are committed to helping you prepare your home to withstand the impacts of major weather events.
Essential Plumbing Preparedness Tips Before a Cyclone
1. Clear Gutters and Downpipes
Blocked gutters and downpipes can lead to overflowing water, which may back up into your roofing, ceilings, and walls. Clearing debris ensures water flows freely away from your home during heavy rain.
2. Secure Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures
Remove or firmly secure garden hoses, taps, irrigation attachments, and any other outdoor plumbing components. In high winds, these can become flying hazards or suffer serious damage.
3. Test and Maintain Sump Pumps
If your home includes a sump pump, test it ahead of storm season. A fully functional sump pump is essential for preventing basement or subfloor flooding during extreme rainfall.
4. Shut Off Water and Gas If Vacating
If you need to evacuate, shut off your main water and gas valves. This can prevent further damage in the event of pipe breaks or leaks caused by storm movement or flooding.
5. Keep Emergency Plumbing Contact Handy
Have a reliable local plumber’s contact details saved and easily accessible. Emergencies often happen when it’s least convenient, and quick response can prevent greater damage.
Cyclone Gabrielle: Plumbing Damage Lessons
In February 2023, Cyclone Gabrielle caused widespread destruction across parts of New Zealand. Homes were inundated with floodwaters, power outages lasted for days, and plumbing systems took a significant hit. Many households experienced:
- Blocked and overflowing stormwater drains
- Burst pipes from water pressure surges
- Contaminated or flooded septic systems
- Gas leaks from damaged lines
- Backflow issues from overwhelmed wastewater systems
These events reinforced the importance of preparation and quick professional support. Damage to plumbing isn’t just an inconvenience—it can compromise your home's safety and hygiene.
Stay Safe with Expert Plumbing Support
Being proactive before a cyclone can make all the difference in protecting your home. At Laser Plumbing Wellington East, we offer emergency plumbing services across the region, 24/7. Whether it’s pre-storm maintenance, installing backflow prevention, or responding to urgent storm damage, our experienced team is ready to help.
If you want to prepare your home’s plumbing system for severe weather or need post-cyclone support, contact us today. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—get cyclone-ready with Laser Plumbing Wellington East.