Living in Seattle, earthquakes aren’t just a distant possibility, they’re part of our reality. We may not feel them every day, but when they strike, they can cause serious damage to your home. One area people often forget about? Their plumbing. So, here’s the big question: Is your plumbing system ready for the next shake-up?
Let’s walk through what you can do to protect your pipes and your peace of mind.
Why Is Earthquake-Proof Plumbing Important?
When the ground moves, your home shifts. Pipes can crack, water heaters can tip over, and gas lines can break. All of this can lead to leaks, floods, or even fires. That’s why preparing your plumbing system now is one of the smartest things you can do for your home.
Do You Know Where Your Shutoff Valves Are?
Start by locating your main water and gas shutoff valves. In the chaos of an earthquake, knowing exactly where they are can prevent a lot of damage. Can everyone in your house find them quickly? If not, take some time to show them and make sure they’re easy to operate.
Are Your Valves In Good Shape?
Valves don’t last forever. Older ones can corrode and get stuck, which is the last thing you want when seconds matter. It’s a good idea to check them now. If they’re hard to turn, you might want to upgrade to quarter-turn valves, they’re easier to use and less likely to fail during a quake.
What About Gas Safety?
Gas leaks are no joke. One of the best investments you can make is an automatic gas shutoff valve. It senses seismic activity and shuts the gas off for you. That means even if you’re not home, your house is protected.
Is Your Water Heater Secure?
If your water heater falls over, it could break the gas or water lines connected to it. The fix? Earthquake straps. These simple, affordable devices keep your heater in place, even when the ground isn’t.
Do You Need A Plumbing Upgrade For Your Seattle Home?
Homes with older plumbing, especially galvanized steel pipes, are more at risk. Flexible materials like PEX can move with the earth instead of breaking. A professional inspection can help you decide if it’s time to upgrade.
Stay safe, Seattle.
You can’t stop an earthquake, but you can prepare for one. Protecting your plumbing system is one less thing to worry about when the ground starts to shake.
Need help getting earthquake-ready? Seatown Electric Plumbing Heating and Air has your back Schedule your plumbing inspection today!