What to Do When Your Water Comes Back On After a Long Outage

So, the water’s back on. You’ve been waiting hours, maybe even days, for it to return, and now it’s tempting to turn on the tap and go about your day. But here’s the thing: getting back to normal isn’t as simple as it seems. After a long outage, your water system could have hidden issues, and it’s important to address them right away.

Let’s walk through the steps to make sure your water is safe to use and your plumbing stays in top shape.

1. Assess Your Water Supply

First things first, inspect your water system as soon as the supply returns. Water sitting in your pipes for an extended period can lead to leaks, bursts, or other issues.

Check for Leaks or Bursts

It’s essential to check your pipes and plumbing fixtures for any signs of leaks or bursts. These often occur during outages due to changes in pressure. Look under sinks, around the water heater, and anywhere else pipes are visible. If you spot any puddles or drips, turn off the main water valve and call a plumber.

Inspect Faucets and Pipes for Airlocks

If the water isn’t flowing right away, don’t panic. Sometimes air gets trapped in the pipes after an outage, causing a blockage. To release the trapped air, turn on each faucet slowly, starting with the one closest to your main water line. You’ll hear some sputtering, but that’s just the air being pushed out.

Check Water Pressure and Flow

Pay attention to the water pressure as the system comes back online. Low pressure can signal a problem like a partial blockage, or even a small leak. If you notice inconsistent flow, that’s a sign something may be wrong. Four Seasons Plumbing can help with a pressure assessment and resolve any flow issues.

2. Flush Your Water System Properly

It might be tempting to take a quick shower or grab a glass of water, but don’t just yet! Your pipes need to be flushed to remove stagnant water or debris that may have built up.

Why Flushing Pipes is Important

During an outage, water can sit still in your pipes, picking up rust, dirt, and other contaminants. That’s why it’s crucial to flush your system once the water returns. Running your taps for several minutes ensures any stagnant water and contaminants are pushed out.

Step-by-Step Guide to Flushing Your Water Lines

Start with your outdoor faucets. Turn them on fully and let them run until the water runs clear. Move inside next and do the same with every faucet, starting with cold water and then the hot. Don’t forget the showers and any appliances like washing machines that use water.

What to Do If You Experience Discolored Water

Discolored water is normal after an outage, as sediment may have stirred up. Run the water until it clears, and if it doesn’t, consider calling a plumber. Sediment can indicate bigger problems, and it might be time for professional help from Four Seasons Plumbing to clean your pipes.

3. Addressing Water Quality Concerns

Your water may not be safe to drink right away. After long outages, contaminants can seep into the system, especially if there was a boil water advisory in place.

Understanding Potential Contaminants

Water can pick up bacteria, dirt, or even chemicals during an outage. If your local authorities issued a boil water notice, don’t skip it. These precautions are in place to keep you safe from harmful contaminants.

When to Boil Your Water

Until you’re sure your water is safe, boil it for at least a minute before drinking or cooking with it. This will kill off any harmful bacteria. It’s also a good idea to boil water for brushing teeth or washing dishes if a boil advisory is in effect.

Testing Your Water Quality

If you want peace of mind, consider testing your water quality. Home test kits are available, but for thorough testing, you might want to hire a professional. They can assess the water’s safety and help you make any necessary improvements to your system.

4. Resetting Water Heaters and Appliances

After a long water outage, your appliances may need special attention to prevent damage.

Restarting Your Water Heater

Turning the water heater back on immediately might cause issues. To avoid damaging it, make sure the tank is full before restarting. If you’re not sure how to check or restart it safely, call in the pros. They can reset it properly and inspect it for damage.

Checking and Restarting Household Appliances

Dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers could also need a reset after a water outage. Check the manufacturer’s instructions, or run a test cycle before using them. If anything seems off—like strange noises or inconsistent water flow—it might be a good idea to have them checked out.

5. Inspecting Your Home’s Filtration System

If you have a water filtration system, you’ll need to check and reset it after an outage. These systems can trap contaminants during an outage, so it’s crucial to clean them out.

How to Reset and Flush Your Water Filtration System

Follow your system’s manual to reset and flush it after an outage. This ensures any trapped dirt or bacteria doesn’t make its way into your drinking water. Depending on the system, you may need to replace the filters as well.

When to Replace Filters

After a long outage, filters can become saturated with contaminants. If you’re unsure, check the filter’s condition. They can replace it and make sure your water is clean and safe.

6. Dealing with Sediment Buildup in Your Plumbing

Sediment in your pipes can cause cloudy water, reduced pressure, or even clogs. Here’s how to address it.

Understanding Sediment Accumulation

After an outage, sediment that settles in your pipes can become dislodged, leading to discolored water and blockages. It’s usually harmless, but persistent sediment issues should be looked at by a professional.

Solutions for Clearing Sediment Buildup

Running the water for a while can help, but if the problem persists, you may need a plumber to flush your pipes professionally. Four Seasons Plumbing offers these services, ensuring that your pipes stay clear and functioning well.

7. Preventing Future Plumbing Issues

Want to avoid these hassles next time there’s an outage? A little preventative maintenance goes a long way.

Routine Plumbing Maintenance

Schedule regular check-ups with a professional plumbing company. They’ll inspect your system, check for leaks, and make sure everything’s in working order. This can help you avoid future problems and keep your water flowing smoothly.

Install Pressure Regulators or Water Softeners

Pressure regulators and water softeners can help protect your system from damage during outages. They’re designed to prevent pressure surges or mineral buildup, both of which can lead to costly repairs down the road.

8. Knowing When to Call a Plumber

Sometimes, the best solution is to call a professional. But when should you pick up the phone?

Signs You Need a Plumber

If your water pressure doesn’t return to normal, your water heater isn’t working, or you’ve got persistent leaks, it’s time to call a plumber. Four Seasons Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency services, so you’re never left without help when you need it most.

Final Thoughts

When your water comes back on after a long outage, it’s easy to think things are back to normal. But taking these simple steps ensures your water is safe, your plumbing is intact, and your home stays in good shape. If you ever need expert help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals at Four Seasons Plumbing. They’ve got the knowledge and experience to handle any issue that comes your way.