Summer Heat Waves Have Led to More Power Outages in Northeast Ohio

This summer has brought unusually high temperatures and multiple heat waves to Medina County and communities across Northeast Ohio. As air conditioners work overtime to keep homes cool, increased demand on the electrical grid has contributed to more frequent power outages in many areas.

While losing electricity is certainly inconvenient, it can also impact parts of your home’s plumbing system. Some plumbing fixtures will continue to work, while others rely on electricity to function properly. Here’s what you should know.

What Parts of Your Plumbing Need Electricity?

Not every part of your plumbing system relies on electricity, but several important components do.

These include:

• Sump pumps
• Well pumps
• Sewage ejector pumps
• Electric water heaters
• Many newer gas water heaters with electronic ignition or electronic controls

If your home depends on any of these systems, a power outage may temporarily affect how your plumbing works.

Will I Still Have Running Water?

The answer depends on where your water comes from.

Homes with Municipal Water

Many homes throughout Medina County and Northeast Ohio receive water from a public water system. Because municipal water systems often have backup power, you’ll usually continue to have cold running water during a short power outage.

Homes with Private Wells

Many rural homes throughout Medina County rely on private wells. If your home has a well, the well pump requires electricity to bring water into your home.

Without electricity, you’ll likely lose running water until power is restored or you’re using a backup generator.

Can I Still Flush the Toilet or Take a Shower?

For many homeowners connected to municipal water and sewer service, the answer is yes. If you still have running water, you can typically flush your toilet and use your shower during a power outage. However, there are two important exceptions.

You May Not Have Hot Water

Even if you still have running water, your water heater may stop producing hot water.

Electric water heaters stop heating water as soon as the power goes out. Many newer gas water heaters also rely on electricity for ignition or electronic controls. You may have some hot water remaining in the tank, but once it’s used, you’ll need to wait until power is restored.

Basement Bathrooms May Not Work

If your basement bathroom uses a sewage ejector pump, avoid using it during a power outage. These pumps require electricity to move wastewater to your home’s sewer line. Using sinks, showers or toilets connected to the system while the power is out could lead to a sewage backup.

Why Your Sump Pump Is the Biggest Concern During a Summer Power Outage

One of the biggest plumbing risks during a power outage isn’t your water, it’s your sump pump.

Summer storms in Northeast Ohio often arrive after periods of extreme heat. If a thunderstorm knocks out power while heavy rain is falling, your sump pump may stop working when you need it most.

Without a functioning sump pump, water can collect in your basement, increasing the risk of flooding, water damage and costly repairs.

If your sump pump is older, runs frequently or hasn’t been inspected in several years, it’s worth having it checked before the next major storm. Installing a battery backup sump pump can also provide added protection when the power goes out.

How Can I Prepare My Plumbing Before the Next Power Outage?

Here are a few simple steps homeowners can take:

• Test your sump pump regularly.
• Consider installing a battery backup sump pump.
• Know where your main water shut-off valve is located.
• Keep bottled water on hand if your home uses a private well.
• Schedule routine maintenance for older sump pumps and water heaters.
• Have the number of a trusted local plumber readily available in case you need emergency service.

When Should I Call a Plumber After a Power Outage?

Once power has been restored, check your plumbing system for signs that something isn’t working properly.

Contact a plumber if:

• Your sump pump doesn’t restart.
• Your water heater isn’t producing hot water.
• You notice unusually low water pressure.
• You discover leaks after the power returns.
• Your basement has standing water.
• Your sewage ejector pump isn’t operating correctly.

Addressing these problems early can help prevent more expensive repairs later.

APPC Plumbing Is Here When You Need Us

Power outages are becoming a more common part of summer in Medina County and Northeast Ohio. Knowing how they can affect your plumbing system can help you avoid unexpected problems and protect your home.

Whether you need sump pump service, water heater repairs, well pump assistance or emergency plumbing after a power outage, the experienced team at APPC Plumbing is here to help.

Contact APPC Plumbing today to schedule an inspection or request plumbing service.