Recent Water Damage Posts

Freezing Water Lines in De Graff Ohio

1/27/2024 (Permalink)

Broken Water Supply Line Cracked water line due to single digit temperatures.

Frozen water pipes are not uncommon around the Midwest and even more common where homes and businesses are exposed to single digit temperatures and high winds. SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin, and Logan Counties is Here to Help®.

A single crack in a copper line, see photo, caused heavy damage to a customer’s finished basement in De Graff, OH. SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin, and Logan Counties was called in to mitigate the loss and are in the process of making it Like it never even happened.®

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin, and Logan Counties is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Call us anytime at 937.354.3540.

We Have the Right Extraction Equipment for Your Water Loss

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been a leader in the restoration business for over 50 years. Our highly trained technicians have access to the best equipment in the industry to make your home or business “like it never even happened.” We get lots of calls regarding water losses, and while no two jobs are exactly alike, they all start the same way, extracting the water. Below is a brief description of the extraction tools we use and how they work.

Light Wand

This is used to extract water from the surface of the carpet. While this is just the first step removing water it greatly reduces the weight of the water and slows down the migration of the water into the carpeting. While this may be affective if no underlay is present, such as glue-down carpet, other extraction tools would need to be used is pad is being saved.

Squeegee Wand

Squeegee or squeegee wands are the best tool to use when extracting water from hard surfaces. They use a cleaning head with a rubber strip around the perimeter to create a good seal.

Vacuum Sealed Extraction

This is a form of deep extraction and is used to remove water from the carpet and pad. Vacuum sealed extractors have a base technicians stand on, the extra weight provides a tight seal allowing water to be extracted from carpet and pad at the same time. This technique is best used on small areas such as closets, or around the perimeter of a room.

Weighted Compression Extraction

This is another form of deep extraction and the most effective for large areas. Most are mechanical and govern their own speed which provides consistent extraction which is critical for the effectiveness of the extraction process. This equipment has a heavier base the technicians stand and ride on to create a tight seal to pull water from deep down in the carpet and pad.

While all extraction tools rely on the principle of airflow each of these machines are different and play an important role in the extraction process based on material, affected area and accessibility. If you experience a water loss in your home or business call SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties, where we have the tools and technicians to make it “like it never even happened.”

Basement Floods in Bellefontaine, OH

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Recently a homeowner in Bellefontaine, Ohio went down in her basement only to find several inches of standing water, however she didn’t panic and knew exactly what to do. She called us, SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties, and scheduled our 24/7 emergency service team to come start extracting the water immediately. While this is something no homeowner wants to happen, flooding is very common. Basement flooding most often occurs from heavy rainfall because it’s the lowest level of the building and is built partly or entirely below ground level, but there are several other potential sources including:

  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Water supple-line break
  • Hot-water tank failure
  • Blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Many more

If you experience flooding in your home or business it’s always best to act fast, standing water is dangerous and causes severe damage to your homes structure. Our crews at SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties are “faster to any disaster” with emergency service crews available 24 hours a day 7 days a week, so call us at 937-354-3540.

Water CATs..?

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

When you think of water, cats probably aren't the first thing that come to mind, but when you have a water loss in your home or business it is best to act fast. Not only does this assure that you will get back normal as soon as possible but delaying the mitigation process can affect the category of water in your facility. The category of water is a major factor in mitigation. Here is a brief description of each category of water and how it effects the mitigation process.

Category 1

  • This category of water has come from a clean source with little threat of causing sickness or discomfort.
  • The water can remain a CAT 1 if it has not been present for an excessive amount of time and the affected materials are clean and well maintained.
  • Some examples of CAT 1 water sources could be water supply line, sink overflows with no contaminants or an appliance water supply line malfunction.
  • CAT 1 water loss usually need minimal demolition and can be dried.

Category 2

  • This category of water has potential to cause sickness or discomfort and should not stay in a structure for an extended period.
  • Potential sources of CAT 2 water loss include waterbed leaks, aquariums, washing machine and dishwasher discharge, and toilet bowl overflows (urine only)
  • At a minimum affected carpet pad must be removed and carpet must be cleaned with hot water extraction before it can be reinstalled.
  • Another good practice with a CAT 2 water loss is to spray an anti-microbial to all affected areas to prevent any further damage.

Category 3

  • This category of water come from a grossly unsanitary source and contains pathogenic agents.
  • Some sources of CAT 3 water include groundwater (flood water) and discharge from toilet that came from beyond the toilet trap (sewer or septic system).
  • Many procedures are necessary when dealing with CAT 3 water including several forms of PPE (personal protective equipment) such as rubber boots, respiratory protection, body coverings, rubber gloves and eye protections. Anyone with a compromised immune system must leave the facility. Occupant and worker safety top priority when working with hazardous materials.
  • Demolition must be performed on highly porous materials including but not limited to carpet, carpet pad, drywall, and insulation.
  • Restorers should apply biocide during and after demolition to help control microorganisms and increase cleaning effectiveness.

The category of water is deteriorating the longer the water sits, so If you experience a water loss in your home or business please don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties at 937-354-3540.

Maintaining your Sump Pump

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Summertime in Ohio is beautiful, but also brings with it the potential for severe thunderstorms. These can be damaging to your home due to high winds, down branches and of course flooding. Sump Pumps are your first line of defense against rainwater entering your home and causing damage, so making sure they are functioning properly is something homeowners should check regularly. The average cost to repair a unit is around $450 while replacing is closer to $1000, making both options more frugal decisions then the potential for thousands of dollars in water damage to your home due to sump pump failure. SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties suggest having your sump pump looked at by a professional if you’re experiencing any of the following

  • Making strange noises such as rattling or grinding.
  • If the unit is vibrating excessively when running.
  • Infrequent pump use will shorten shelf life.
  • Constantly running
  • If the unit is cycling irregularly
  • Notice any visible rust
  • If the unit is 7 years or older, shelf life for a sump pump is usually around 10 years.
  • Motor gets stuck or motor has stopped working.

If you do experience a water loss in your home due to sump pump failure or any other cause we are available 24/7 for Emergency Services at SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties, contact us at 937-354-3540.

Faster to your Logan County Water Damage

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

Standing water in hallway When standing water is found, the clock is already ticking.

Water damage from broken pipes, sump-pump failures, and even toilet backups are very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your residence affecting building materials and contents. The faster the water is removed the less likely permanent damage sets in.  

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process as quickly as possible so we can get you back to your daily routine as fast as possible. 

Need Emergency Water Services?

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize/Hardin/Logan Counties is available 24/7 at 937.354.3540

Helpful Questions to Ask When Your Kenton, OH Home Floods

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Talk to your insurance agent about flood insurance. Here are helpful questions to ask your agent:

  • Does my community participate in the National Flood Insurance Program? Flood insurance from the NFIP is only available in participating communities, but most communities do participate. Your agent can tell you if your state and community participate, or you can look it up online in the Community Status Book.
  • What flood zone do I live in? What is my property's flood risk? Is there a flood map (see note below) change coming that could affect what I pay?
  • Is flood insurance mandatory for my property? Will the lender require it?
  • Do I qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy?
  • Does my community participate in the National Flood Insurance Program's Community Rating System (CRS)? If so, does my home qualify for a CRS rating discount?
  • What will and won't be covered?
  • Will the federal government back my flood insurance policy?
  • How much coverage should I get for my building and for my contents?
  • How can I reduce the cost of my flood insurance?
  • Are there additional expenses or agency fees?
  • Will my policy provide Replacement Cost Value or Actual Cash Value—and what's the difference between the two?
  • Who should I call if I have a flood claim?
  • How can I pay for my policy?
  • How do I renew my policy?

Why Does Wood Hold Moisture?

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

A fundamental fact is that wood is hygroscopic. This means that wood, almost like a sponge, will gain or lose moisture from the air based upon the conditions of the surrounding environment.

But not only does wood gain or lose moisture, but it will also expand or contract according to the magnitude of such changes; and it is this swelling and shrinking in finished wood products—often referred to as the wood’s movement in service—that is responsible for so much mischief and so many malfunctions in woodworking.

When a tree is first felled, it is considered to be in the green state, and contains a very large amount of moisture. This moisture exists in two different forms: as free water that is contained as liquid in the pores or vessels of the wood itself, and as bound water that is trapped within the cell walls.

Once a fresh log or piece of lumber is cut and exposed to the air, it will immediately begin losing free water. At this point, the wood does not contract or otherwise change in dimension since the fibers are still completely saturated with bound water. It is only once all the free water has been lost that the wood will reach what is called the fiber saturation point, or simply FSP.

Below the FSP, the wood will then begin to lose moisture in the form of bound water, and an accompanying reduction in the wood’s volume will occur. At this point, the wood is no longer considered to be in the green state, but is now in a state of drying.

Just how much bound moisture is lost during the drying phase will ultimately depend upon the temperature and relative humidity (RH) of the surrounding air. At 100%?rh, no bound water will be lost. At 0% RH, all the bound water in the wood will be lost, a condition known as ovendry—so-called because a kiln or oven is typically required to completely drive out all moisture.

The amount of water in a given piece of wood is expressed as a percentage of the weight of the water as compared to its ovendry weight. Some species of trees, when they are initially felled, may contain more water by weight than actual wood fiber, resulting in a moisture content (MC) over 100%.

Does Your Logan County Home Have A Moisture Problem?

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage describes a large number of possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, growth, rusting of steel, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, and many others.

The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.

An insurance policy may or may not cover the costs associated with water damage and the process of water damage restoration. While a common cause of residential water damage is often the failure of a sump pump, many homeowner's insurance policies do not cover the associated costs without an addendum which adds to the monthly premium of the policy. Often the verbiage of this addendum is similar to "Sewer and Drain Coverage".

Those individuals who are affected by wide scale flooding may have the ability to apply for government and FEMA grants through the Individual Assistance program.

On a larger level, businesses, cities, and communities can apply to the FEMA Public Assistance program for funds to assist after a large flood. For example, the city of Fond du Lac Wisconsin received $1.2 million FEMA grant after flooding in June 2008. The program allows the city to purchase the water damaged properties, demolish the structures, and turn the properties into public green space.

Have a water damage problem? Give us a call at (937)354-3540!

Kenton, Bellefontaine, and Ada Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Kenton, Bellefontaine, or Ada basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (937)354-3540

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan Counties and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (937)354-3540

Hardin, Logan & Auglaize counties Flood warning vs. Flood watch

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

What is the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning issued by the National Weather Service?

  • Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

  • Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

  • Flood Watch: Be Prepared:A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

  • Flood Advisory: Be Aware: An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

Flood Insurance Facts for Logan County

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

FACT: Floods are the nation’s most common and costly natural disaster and cause millions of dollars in damage every year. Floods cost America, on average, $8.2 billion each year. Recovering from just one inch of water inside your building can cost about $27,000. Learn about The BIG Cost of Floods.

FACT: Homeowners and renters insurance do not typically cover flood damage.

FACT: Floods can happen anywhere--More than 20 percent of flood claims come from properties outside the high risk flood zone.

FACT: Flood insurance can pay regardless of whether or not there is a Presidential Disaster Declaration.

FACT: Most federal disaster assistance comes in the form of low-interest disaster loans from U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and you have to pay them back. FEMA offers disaster grants that don't need to be paid back, but this amount is often much less than what is needed to recover. A claim against your flood insurance policy could and often does, provide more funds for recovery than those you could qualify for from FEMA or the SBA--and you don't have to pay the money back.

FACT: You may be required to have flood insurance. Congress has mandated federally regulated or insured lenders to require flood insurance on mortgaged properties that are located in areas at high risk of flooding. But even if your property is not in a high risk flood area, your mortgage lender may still require you to have flood insurance.

Spring Showers bring flooding...What to do when your home floods in Ada, OH

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

Take Pictures

Before you remove any water or make any repairs, fully document the damage for your insurer by taking photos or video. Digital versions are best because they can be stored electronically and easily copied. If you start removing water or making repairs before you photograph the damage.

Protect Your Health

Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. We recommend wearing waders, hip- or waist-high waterproof boots. In addition, wear rubber gloves to remove water-damaged possessions and to avoid contaminants. Be sure to throw out any food that may have come into contact with flood waters. FEMA recommends boiling water until authorities declare the water supply is safe.

Call Your Insurance Company

Since you should notify your insurer as soon as possible after the flood, it’s a good idea to keep your insurance company and local agent’s phone number in your always-ready emergency bag. (Note that the NFIP works through private insurance companies, so you contact your insurer just as you would for any other type of claim). In cases where a flood has affected a region or community, your agent may be busy handling his or her own flood issues. In that case, contact the insurance company’s headquarters. 

Since groundwater flood damage typically isn’t covered by conventional homeowners insurance policies, you’ll need to work with your insurer to determine the cause of the flood and the extent of your coverage. 

How to Reduce Flood Damages to Your Home

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damages in our homes is something we all experience at some point in our lives. It could be caused from something as simple as an overflowing bathtub or something more serious such as a burst pipe or sewerage pipe rupture. Flood damages to your home can range from minor to severe and dealing with the issue can be tiresome and even dangerous. While some water issues cannot be foreseen, there are a few things you can do to prevent Flood damages to your home from factors you have some control over.

Clean your down-spouts and gutters: Make sure to clean out your gutters at least once every six months or more often if you have a lot of trees in the area. When water collects in the gutters it can cause damage to your roof and the gutters themselves. Down-spouts that aren’t clean and checked to ensure the water is running off properly and is running away from your house, can cause damage to walls and even your foundations.

Remove hoses from taps when not in use: When the water does not drain out of your hose, it could freeze inside of it. This in turn could freeze back into the tap and pipes. The solid ice could cause an ice block, preventing water from moving through the pipe but it could also cause the pipe to burst, which could cause damage to your property.

Switch off the mains: If you are going on vacation or you are going to be away for a length of time, switch the water off at the mains. This will stop any dripping or other water issues while you are away. You wouldn’t want to come home to water rushing out your front door to greet you.

Keep your garden in check: Trees and shrubs can cause damage to your pipes from the roots wrapping around the pipes. Keep your garden maintained and no large plants near piping. In a smaller garden it is often best to avoid trees all together.

Fix the leaks: A small leak can become a big water damage problem if not dealt with as soon as possible. Even tiny drips can cause mildew and mold in your home and even lead to structural damage and dry rot over an extended period of time. If you fix the leaks as they occur, you have less likelihood of the small issue becoming a huge problem later. If you have a sudden spike in your water bill, make sure you investigate for underground water leaks as well.

Check the appliances: Monitor appliances for leaks and replace any cracked and brittle piping. Things like a dishwasher or washing machine can flood your house out quickly if the appliance is not maintained adequately.

Water Categories and Definitions

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Known as "grey water". This type carries micro organisms and nutrients of micro organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affects the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.

Have questions about a water situation that you may have? Give us a call at (937)354-3540!

April Showers Bring May Flowers!

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Spring is here everyone! And while that means nicer weather is near, it also means with the warmer temperatures also come higher chances of severe weather and thunder storms. Now is the perfect time to check those sump pumps, outside water spigots, and any measures you have in place to ensure your basement and home stays dry.

Having a new sump pump on hand in case the primary goes out is a great idea to ensure you are ready in case of emergency. Also if you are planning on doing some yard work and plan to use your outside spigot. When you turn the spigot on for the first time post winter, it's always a good idea to check the spigot where it enters the home, to ensure that you are not watering your home when you think you're only watering your flowers.

If one of these items does happen to fail during, or due to a storm event we're here to help! Serving the local Hardin, Logan & Auglaize county areas for over 20 years, we have the knowledge, technology and tools to handle water intrusion in your home, big or small. We're just a phone call away at (937)354-3540!

Free CE Class! July 26th 2018

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

July 2018 CE Class

Good Morning,

We would like to invite anyone who is in need of continuing education credits to attend our upcoming CE class. It is being provided free of charge with lunch included by SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan counties.

Please RSVP by replying to us via email, Facebook, or by simply giving us a call! All of the information on the CE class is enclosed in the flyer, and you can also find all of the information on our Facebook page. While you're there give our page a like if you are interested in staying current on any of our future CE classes or other information that we offer.

Continental breakfast, and lunch will be provided by The Plaza Inn Restaurant. Located in Mount Victory Ohio.

Thanks!

Brad SaltzmanSERVPRO of central Auglaize , Hardin & Logan countiesEmail-SERVPRO8463@dbscorp.netPhone- (937)354-3540Fax- (937)354-3541

Faster to your Kenton, Bellefontaine or Ada area Water Damage Event

3/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan counties provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Kenton, Bellefontaine or Ada areas

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan counties provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (937)354-3540

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan counties

SERVPRO of Central Auglaize, Hardin & Logan counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Out of sight ...out of mind. Sump Pump Backup in Columbus,OH

4/1/2016 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement

As mechanical things go, we don’t often think about the sump pump. It’s down in the basement, out of sight and out of mind. In reality, your sump pump is one of the hardest working pieces of equipment in your house.

A typical submersible sump pump drains water year round, and when a rainstorm hits the water pump works extra duty keeping your basement from flooding. Most homes have sump pumps to aid in basement drainage. So, here are a couple of things to consider:

Sump pumps are mechanical and will eventually fail. Average sump pump life is 10 years. The most common reason for failure is the sump pump switch.
If your sump pump fails during a rain storm, hundreds of gallons of water can flood your basement in a matter of minutes. It doesn’t take much water to cause thousands of dollars in damage.
Basement flooding can ruin your furnace, water heater and other mechanical and electrical devices. According to the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association these appliances must be replaced.
Sump pumps should be checked for proper operation a couple of times per year – pour some water into the sump pit until the submersible pump cycles. This is usually an easy process and only takes a couple of minutes. Don’t wait for a failure during a rainstorm to find out your sump pump doesn’t work.