Lets face it folks, summer is just about over and fall is right around the corner! Which means that now is the perfect time to get started on fall maintenance because winter and increment weather are ahead! One area of concern when it comes to fall maintenance is your basement. If you have a basement, then it is susceptible to flooding. Now is the perfect time to weather proof your basement to prevent your basement from flooding. Here are some fall maintenance tips to prevent your basement from flooding.
Identifying the Threats
When preventing your basement from flooding it is important to identify what are the risks and hazards that can lead to a flooded basement. For starters, heavy rains. It may be sunny and clear right now, but rest assured, the rain and snow are coming, which can lead to basement flooding. Some other common reasons your basement might flood include: a burst pipe, a water leak, a burst water heater, a backflow problem, and a clogged toilet.
Check Your Sump Pump
To prevent your basement from flooding you have to be proactive. One of the most important things you can do as part of your fall maintenance is to make sure your sump pump is working. And if you don’t have one, get one! A sump pump is important because when excess water is detected, the sump pump pumps the water away, preventing flooding! To make sure your sump pump is working, poor a bucket of water into the crock. If it activates you have nothing to worry about. If it doesn’t, you should have it checked by a professional. Another thing you will want to do is make sure there are no clogs in the drain for your sump pump. You may also want to make sure they have a battery back up in case of a power outage.
Make Sure Your Basement is Properly Sealed
Another important part of fall maintenance to prevent your basement from flooding, is to make sure your basement is properly sealed. If your basement is sealed, you could be at risk for flooding. Have the walls and floors of your basement sealed to prevent water from creaping through.
Check Your Plumbing
Faulty plumbing is a common reason for a basement to flood. Checking your plumbing on a regular basis can help prevent a flood. Continuous leak detection is a must! This not only can help prevent a flooded basement but also save water and prevent damage. A plumbing inspection includes: checking under sinks and behind toilets, and looking out for any unexplained puddles or water. In addition, listening for any sounds or dripping or rushing water. At the first sign of a leak, call you plumber right away. Some other fall maintenance things you can do for your plumbing include: regular drain cleaning by a professional, proper pipe insulation to prevent frozen pipes, inspection of your water heater, and insulation for your water heater.
Most plumbing problems that can lead to a flooded basement are preventable! Make sure you take the proper precautions to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the integrity of your home. A flooded basement can lead to expensive repairs, damage to personal belongings, and health hazards! Contact Lesco Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling today to learn more!
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