Sioux Falls sump pumps are in action. To get ready for spring, you’ll need to keep that pump going while also taking a few other steps.
How to Prevent Spring Water Damage
Keeping water out of your basement is a must. But you should also make sure you don’t have standing water near your house and prepare for the worst-case scenario — a flood.
Spring Sump Pump Prep
First things first: make sure your sump pump is working. Here is a checklist for owners of sump pumps in Sioux Falls and southeastern South Dakota:
- Ensure the pump is upright.
- Pour a bucket of water into your basement pit to see if it kicks in.
- If you have a submersible pump, clean the bottom grate.
- Make sure the pipes attached to your pump are tightly fastened and set to drain at least 20 feet away from your foundation.
- Check the pump vent hole for blockages that could prevent water from flowing through your outlet tube.
After you finish your spring sump pump prep, you can also install a battery-operated backup and/or a water alarm for extra precaution.
Ready Your Home for High Water
You know whether you live in a floodplain and the likelihood of flooding in your area. These precautions are in the “better safe than sorry” category, but they’ll help you no matter where you live.
- Raise your electrical components and appliances a foot or more above your home’s projected flood elevation.
- De-clog your gutters of all leaves and other debris, and make sure downspouts are directing water down and away from the foundation of your home.
- Make sure your gutters and downspouts are properly attached and in good condition so the wind cannot detach them.
- Inspect your roof, which is the first line of defense for your home. Look at it from both the ground and on top of the roof.
Prepare for an Actual Flood
High water is one thing, but a full-fledged flood is another. What would you do if a severe flood washed through your home?
These precautions won’t protect all of your possessions. A nasty flood can wipe out anything, but these can help you get through that worst-case situation physically and financially.
- Review your homeowners insurance policy or renter’s insurance policy.
- Photograph your possessions to provide proof of ownership for insurance purposes.
- Store your valuables in a safe location (especially any valuables you are storing in the garage). Extra-special possessions should be placed in a waterproof container and placed on higher ground.
INTEK Can Help With the Worst Case
INTEK has handled many emergency situations, and we can help with water damage restoration.
Contact us at any time if you need water damage restoration services in the Sioux Falls or Yankton area, or even if you have additional questions about preparing your home.
See our water damage restoration services »
Image: State Farm Source: Howstuffworks.com
