10 Reasons Sump Pumps Fail!

 

1. Float switch is broken or stuck

2. Too much water is overwhelming the pump

3. Clogged sump pump intake screen

4. Sump pump is air locked (on but not working)

5. Sump pump is jammed by mud or stone

6. Power outage

7. Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse

8. Sump pump is burned out

9. Broken pump impeller or drive shaft

10. Clogged or frozen sump pump discharge

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

 

Our last post on tips for water damage! It's been a good run guys!

 

Basements:

Make sure that basement windows and doors have built-up barriers or flood shields.

 

Irrigation:

Inspect and adjust the spray pattern of the irrigation heads to minimize the water sprayed directly onto the house to avoid excessive water near the foundation.

 

Roof:

To prolong roof life, have a professional roof inspection annually. Request a detailed inspection report that includes the condition of the flashing, roof covering, parapets and drainage system.

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

 

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage due to humidity:

 

• The relative humidity in your home should be between 30% & 50%
• Condensation on windows, wet stains on walls and ceilings, and musty smells are signs that you have have too much humidity in your home.
• Be sure to use bathroom exhaust fans following warm showers or baths.
• When going on trips, turn the temperature up on the air conditioning, not off. The air conditioning system helps remove moisture from your home.

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

 

 

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage from windows & doors:

 

• Check for leaks around your windows and doors, especially near corners.
• Check for peeling paint as it can be a sign of water getting into the wood.
• Inspect for discolorations in paint or caulking, swelling of the window or doorframe or surrounding materials. 

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage from your washing machine:

 

• Turn supply valves off while the home is unoccupied or washing machine is not in use.
• Leave a 3 to 4 inch gap between the back of the washing machine and the wall to avoid kinking the hose near the valve connection.
• Check the hoses for cracks, kinks or blisters, which are most commonly found near the hose connection every six months.
• Washing machine manufacturers recommend replacing washing machine hoses every five years and installing reinforced braided stainless steel hoses.

 

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage from refrigerators/icemakers:

 

• Inspect the hose every six months. Ensure the valve connection is secure and check for kinks. If kinks are present, replace the hose.
• Leave a 3 to 4 inch space between the back of the refrigerator and the wall to prevent the hose from crimping.
• Locate the water shut-off valve. Inspect the valve every six months to make sure the water supply will shut off & replace the valve as needed. 

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

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