Alarm Systems That Cover Your Whole House
Did you know a security system can find indoor floods? If not, now you do. It’s not just about stopping burglars. It’s about keeping everything safe. For example, these systems find fire and carbon monoxide. Now, they can also alert you to needed sump pump maintenance.
But let’s get back to basement flooding .
Unfortunately, flooding happens in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse. For example, a good rain can overwhelm drains and rivers. Also, broken pipes cause floods. If you have a basement, flooding is always a risk. Even if it looks dry, a leaky pipe can cause big damage. Fortunately, a working sump pump can really help.
Simple Sump Pump Maintenance
Even when security systems detect flooding, so homeowners and business owners know sooner rather than later, the sump pump is going to be a very good friend. Indeed, it can immediately start pumping out the water that is accumulating in the basement so that damage is minimized. However, you have to make sure your sump pump is in good working order by performing annual sump pump maintenance. Therefore, the following are steps you can take to make sure your sump pump works for you when you need it:
- Make sure the sump pump power cord is plugged into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
- Inspect the cord to ensure there is no wear and tear.
- Unplug the cord and take the pump out of the basin. Inspect the grate for debris and clean it. Too much debris can cause the sump pump to malfunction.
- Check the drainage pipes to make sure the joints are tightly connected and that they are draining to the proper area (pipe into the yard that points away from the foundation or main sewage line).
- All venting should be debris-free.
- Replace the pump and make sure it is upright and level.
- Test the pump by filling the basin with water. The pump should kick on immediately.
If the sump pump fails to operate, you can either have a plumber repair it, or you can replace it. Generally, sump pumps have a life span of 5 to 15 years. Usually, a sump pump under 5 years of age has a warranty. However, if it is between 5 and 15 years old, replacement may be your best option.
Contact A Rochester, Syracuse, and Buffalo Security Company
Your security system and sump pump can work together to minimize the damage in your home or business from flooding. The advanced warning given by the security system and the hard work of your sump pump can result in incredible cost savings when compared to the alternative. To learn more about these systems or any type of system you feel you need to keep your home or business secure, call SPS Fire & Security at 585-770-0348 or complete the contact form below.
