Know Your Shutoff Valves
The single most important thing you can do before a hurricane is know where your main water shutoff valve is located. In most Cape Coral and Fort Myers homes, it's near the front of the house by the water meter. Practice turning it off so you can act quickly when a storm approaches.
You should also know the individual shutoff valves for toilets, sinks, and your water heater. Shutting these off before evacuation prevents flooding if a supply line breaks during the storm.
Turn Off Your Water Heater
Before evacuating or when a hurricane warning is issued, turn off your water heater. For gas units, switch to "Pilot" or "Off." For electric units, flip the breaker. Running a water heater without a consistent water supply can cause overheating and damage the unit.
If your water heater is in a flood-prone area (like a garage at ground level), consider having it elevated or relocated before hurricane season.
Clear Your Drains and Gutters
Heavy rainfall during hurricanes can overwhelm drainage systems. Make sure all exterior drains, gutters, and downspouts are clear of debris before the storm. Inside, ensure all drains are flowing freely — a clogged drain during a hurricane can lead to interior flooding.
Consider having a professional drain cleaning done before June to ensure your entire system is clear.
Protect Exposed Pipes
Exposed pipes — especially on the exterior of your home or in crawl spaces — are vulnerable to flying debris during a hurricane. Insulate or cover exposed pipes where possible. If you have older galvanized or polybutylene pipes, they're more likely to crack or burst under storm stress. A whole-home repipe before hurricane season eliminates this risk entirely.
Install Backflow Prevention
Storm surges and heavy flooding can cause sewage to back up into your home through floor drains and toilets. A backflow prevention valve stops this reverse flow. If your home doesn't have one, now is the time to get one installed.
Document Your Plumbing System
Before hurricane season, take photos of your plumbing system — water heater, exposed pipes, shutoff valves, and any recent work. This documentation helps with insurance claims if your plumbing is damaged during the storm.
After the Storm
Once it's safe to return home, inspect your plumbing carefully before turning the water back on:
- Check for visible pipe damage, cracks, or displaced connections
- Look for signs of sewage backup (odor, standing water near drains)
- Turn the water on slowly and check for leaks at every fixture
- Have your water tested if your area experienced flooding
If you discover damage, call 833-PLUMB-IT for emergency plumbing service. We prioritize Sanibel, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and all SWFL communities after storms. Book an inspection today to get ahead of hurricane season.