Reducing Storm Damage in Danbury, CT

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement in Brookfield, CT due to Sump Pump Failure

SERVPRO Tip for Fairfield County Homeowners--Reduce Water Damage By Inspecting Sump Pumps Regularly

Sump pumps are pretty common throughout the area. If you have a basement, you are likely somewhat familiar with these devices. Homes placed in low-lying areas have flooding issues, where sump pumps and backflow valves help ease exposure experienced during an event.     Sadly Fairfield County sump pump failures happen quite often. If your home has one installed, there are a few things you can pay closer attention to that may help prevent these failures from happening when you need the device to be most effective.  

SERVPRO technicians often find that power outages or power surges caused by storms lead to a majority of sump pump failures. You can have an alternative source of energy and surge protection installed to help prevent this type of failure. Small backup generators or battery backup devices can truly save your home during an emergency.    

Next, if your sump pump is the wrong size or incorrectly installed, problems can occur. When a sump pump is too big, it is forced to work harder, leading to abnormal wear and tear, limiting the lifespan of the device. If your sump pump is too small, it may not have the ability to fill your needs adequately. Installing a backflow valve, or check valve into drain lines to prevent water from returning. Ushering excessive water through proper drain pipes, to avoid damage to your home.    

If installed incorrectly, sump pumps can accumulate dirt or gravel, causing interference with the pump’s float valve or on/off switch, resulting in malfunctions of the unit. Switch problems occur most often when the float arm becomes damaged. SERVPRO technicians recommend performing regular maintenance on installed sump pumps to verify proper operation. Running the pump every three months or during major seasonal changes gives you a heads-up, should problems occur.     

Sump pumps can become clogged or frozen, often requiring maintenance before working correctly. Having someone out to inspect the operation of your sump pump, drainage, and valves once a year can mean the difference between flooding your basement or safely weathering the storm.    

SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield stands ready to assist you with preparing your home for combatting common issues found in our area. Call today; we can help. (203) 791-0920.