According to the insurance industry, water damage and mold claims reach 2.5 billion dollars annually with the average home claim being almost $7,000. It is estimated that 98% of basements in U.S. homes will experience some sort of water damage over the course of their lifespan. A leak in your basement could be very costly and result in damage to your floors, walls, foundation, furniture, and any belongings stored there. Additionally, moisture can also cause structural damage to your walls, encouraging bacteria and mold growth. Because basement water damage is so common and devastating, the FitzGerald and Sons Plumbing Company team wants to encourage you to take proactive steps to protect your home. Paying attention to your plumbing and maintenance schedule can help you avoid or minimize issues in your basement.

 

  • Know How and Where to Shut Off Your Water Time is of the essence when there is a leak. If you suspect that you have a leak, turn the water off to limit additional damage. We recommend that you locate your main shut-off valve today, so you will not be panicking to find it during a water crisis. The main water shut-off valve can usually be found where the water supply line enters your home. This is often, though not necessarily, near the water heater, in a mechanical area, or sometimes under stairs, etc.  All homes are a little different. If you are on county or city water, you should have a water meter, commonly located at or near the curb at the street.  You can purchase a meter wrench at most home stores, hardware stores, etc. that you can easily use to turn off the ¼ turn valve at the meter.  If you leave home for an extended period of time it is a good idea to turn the water off at the meter on your way out.  That may save you a lot of money should you have a pipe burst from cold, etc.  At the very least, shut off the water where it enters the house.  If you are on a well you should locate which circuit breaker(s) will shut off the well pump so that in an emergency it is quick and easy to shut it down.  And you can do the same if leaving for an extended period of time. 

 

  • Pay Attention to your Water Meter–Because so much water can be lost from a small leak, your water bill will likely make it obvious when you have a leak. To test whether you have a leak or not, shut off the water where it enters the house and check to see if the meter is still registering flow.  (The older style meters usually have a small, usually red, triangle that turns as water flows.  The newer, digital meters will “zero out” when the flow stops and they will show the amount of water flowing when there is actual flow.)  If the meter shows flow when the interior valve is off, that usually indicates a leak between that valve and the meter.  If it does not show flow, open it and see if the water flow begins again and that will indicate a leak within the footprint of the home.  That leak may be under a slab, in a crawlspace or as simple as worn toilet tank flappers and leaking faucets. Homeowners can sometimes find the source of the leak, but if you need help our team is experienced and equipped with the best equipment for leak detection

 

  •  Clean your Basement Drain–Go to your basement and see if you have a floor drain. Basement floor drains help remove wastewater from appliances, water heaters, AC units, and more. Over time, they can accumulate scum and debris, limiting their ability to drain properly. Periodically run water in the floor drain in the basement to be sure it is working.  This will also keep the trap full and eliminate sewer gas odors.  If the floor drain is clogged, you may try to use a small sewer snake to clear it.  Sometimes it’s best to call a professional with the right tools for the job.  Some home remedies like vinegar and baking soda might work but often lead to bigger messes than they attempt to resolve.

If you discover any plumbing issues during your basement maintenance, we are standing by to help. FitzGerald and Sons Plumbing Company has been helping homeowners for decades, so our team is experienced and prepared for any plumbing issue you may be facing.