Question: How should homeowners prepare outdoor plumbing fixtures during the rainy season?

Answer:

Blake advises that during the rainy season, homeowners should focus primarily on checking storm drains. Leaves, roots, grass, and debris can easily clog these drains, preventing rainwater from flowing away properly. He recommends physically clearing away any visible debris to ensure water can drain freely. Proper drainage helps prevent water pooling, flooding, and foundation issues.

He notes that hose bibs and smaller outdoor fixtures typically do not require significant concern during rainy months. The main preventative action is ensuring storm drains are clear and functioning as intended. By staying proactive, homeowners can avoid water accumulation problems that often arise during heavy rainfall.

Summary:

The most important rainy season maintenance step is checking and clearing storm drains. Debris such as leaves and roots can block water flow and cause flooding or pooling around the home. Blake emphasizes that outdoor hose bibs usually require little attention, but storm drains should be monitored and cleared regularly. Proactive maintenance ensures rainwater drains properly and prevents larger structural or drainage problems during wet months.