Guardians of the Pipes: Protecting School Plumbing Systems During the Holidays

11/28/2023 (Permalink)

Don't start the new year with a flooded school!

As schools prepare to close their doors for the holiday season, it's crucial to turn attention to one of the often overlooked aspects of facility management – the plumbing system. A dormant school building can pose challenges for plumbing if not properly prepared. SERVPRO Team Spinner, with its expertise in restoration and cleanup, offers valuable insights on how to safeguard school plumbing systems during the holidays.

1. Conduct a Thorough Inspection: Before the school doors are locked for the holidays, conduct a comprehensive inspection of the plumbing system. Look for leaks, drips, or any signs of wear and tear. Addressing issues preemptively can prevent small problems from turning into major disruptions.

2. Ensure Proper Insulation: As temperatures drop, it's essential to ensure that exposed pipes are adequately insulated. This safeguards against freezing, which can lead to pipe bursts and water damage. Pay special attention to areas that might not receive sufficient heating, such as basements and attics.

3. Run a Full Flush: Encourage the maintenance staff to perform a full flush of all toilets and run water through all faucets. This helps prevent sediment build-up, ensures water circulation, and keeps the traps filled to prevent sewer gases from entering the building.

4. Set Thermostats Appropriately: Maintain a minimal level of heating in the building to prevent freezing. While it might be tempting to save on energy costs, allowing the temperature to drop significantly can result in frozen pipes and subsequent water damage.

5. Shut Off Unnecessary Water Sources: Identify and shut off water sources that aren't essential during the holidays. This includes irrigation systems, outdoor faucets, and any other non-essential water supply. By reducing the overall pressure on the plumbing system, the risk of leaks or bursts is minimized.

6. Establish Emergency Protocols: In the event of an unexpected plumbing issue, having clear emergency protocols in place is crucial. Ensure that staff members know how to locate shut-off valves and are aware of the steps to take in case of a water-related emergency.

7. Partner with Professionals: Consider consulting with plumbing professionals or restoration experts like SERVPRO Team Spinner. Their experience in dealing with water damage can provide valuable guidance and proactive solutions to fortify the plumbing system against potential risks.

Protecting a school's plumbing system during the holidays requires a combination of proactive measures, thorough inspections, and a keen awareness of potential vulnerabilities. By implementing these steps, schools can ensure that they return to a fully operational and undamaged plumbing system when the doors reopen. SERVPRO Team Spinner stands ready to assist with any unforeseen water-related challenges, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative effort to keep school facilities safe and secure during the holiday break.

After all, we aim to make it "Like it never even happened."