Expert Tips to Protect Your Basement From Water Damage
The more aware you are of possible causes of water damage, the better prepared you’ll be to take preventative measures to protect your property. Last month, we highlighted how damaged or leaking pipes, old or broken appliances, clogged gutters, downspouts, or drains, and extreme weather conditions are all common sources of water damage to look out for. This month, we’re covering the common sources of basement water damage you need to be aware of in your home.
Flooded basement
Reduce the Risk of Basement Flooding
Your basement is one of the areas of your home that is most vulnerable to flooding. Two common causes of flooding are sump pump failure and leaking water heaters. Basements are more prone to mold growth than other areas of your home, so even a small leak affecting your basement can lead to major issues over time.
Sump Pump Malfunction
Installing a sump pump is an effective method to prevent basement flooding. Sump pumps collect excess water from the ground surrounding your home and pump it out when the basin fills up. Maintaining your sump pump is key to avoiding a clogged pump or clogged discharge lines.
Rusty sump pump
Sump Pump Maintenance Tips:
The discharge line should extend far away from your home so water can safely drain away from your foundation.
Have a backup generator to power your sump pump and keep it running in the event you lose power during a severe storm.
If your model is older, consider replacing it with a new one because a dated model can become overworked, leading to drainage issues.
Lookout for debris or objects in the basin, which may damage the float mechanism that signals when the pump should drain.
Inspect that the arrow on the check valve is pointing away from the sump pump, which keeps the water that gets pumped out from coming back into the pump.
Perform routine maintenance checks to ensure proper functioning. If you’ve noticed your pump isn’t working correctly and you’re not sure why, have a plumber inspect your pump to determine the source of the problem.
Leaking water heater
Water Heater Leaks
Since water heaters and boilers are usually located in areas of the home that aren’t frequently visited, like the basement or a utility closet, a leak or burst may go undiscovered. For this reason, it’s a good idea to take caution by monitoring your basement appliances on a regular basis.
Common causes of water heater leaks
Tank Corrosion: If your tank’s fittings rust or corrode, it can create a gap for water to escape. Older tanks are more susceptible to rust or have worn-out seals or gaskets, which make them more prone to leaking or bursting.
Thermostat Malfunction: If your thermostat malfunctions, it won’t be able to accurately measure how hot or cold the water inside the tank is. If the heating element stays on instead of turning off when it reaches the desired temperature, the water inside the tank could boil, building internal pressure and causing a burst.
QwikResponse team arrives at water damaged residence to begin repairs
Restoring Water Damage from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles
At Qwik Response, we’re aware of the disruption that water damage may cause to your daily routine at home. Even minor water damage could require mold removal if it’s not addressed within 48 hours, which is why we provide a one-hour response time for all water mitigation, restoration, and repairs. If you have water damage and live in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, Ventura, or Los Angeles, our QwikResponse team will take every measure to ensure your home is returned to its pre-damage condition as quickly as possible. Our technicians are trained in all aspects of water damage and offer detailed inspection reports and a full assessment for any water-related damage. Click here to learn more about our services.