Sump pumps can be invaluable devices, especially for those living in Baltimore. By removing unwanted and excess water from the lowest part of your house, usually a basement, these useful devices can help to protect your home from a slew of problems due to water damage and mold. To keep your sump pump in good working order, follow these tips. For more information regarding sump pumps, or for a diagnostic checkup of your system, enlist the help of a trained basement waterproofing professional.

Connect Pump to Reliable Power Supply

Plug your sump pump in to a functioning GFCI outlet, which can cut off electrical currents flowing through it when tripped. Periodically inspect your GCFI outlet to make sure it has not been tripped and needs to be reset. Routinely check your power-supply cords for damage. Also, it is highly recommended that you have backup power sources in the case of a power outage. A basement waterproofing professional can help you design a battery backup system for your sump pump.

Keep Your Pump Upright

When sump pumps are in use, they are inclined to vibrate. This means that they can potentially move around or fall over, which can damage them or cause them not to work properly. Periodically check your pump to make sure it is standing upright and in the same position in which it was installed.

Perform Routine Maintenance

Even though sump pumps tend to be very reliable, they still need to be maintained. Check your pump’s outlet pipes for leaks, damages, or clogs, and check its vent hole for blockage. Disconnect your pump’s power supply and inspect its submersible pump by removing it from its pit. When your pump is working, it can suck in all manner of particles and debris. If you notice dirt or pebbles trapped in its grates, clean it out.

Your crawlspace may not be the most glamorous space in your home, but it may be one of the most important spaces because it could possibly contain things that support your house such as structural beams and gas or electrical lines. That is why it is imperative that you keep your crawlspace clean and free of moisture. One way to prevent unwanted problems is to perform a crawlspace waterproofing project. Hire a contractor who specializes in crawl space encapsulation in Baltimore to do this job properly.

There are several ways that water can get into your crawlspace. Leaky pipes, cracks in your house’s foundation, and storm-water seepage are the major culprits. Some telltale signs of moisture problems are mold growth, wood rot, and termite infestation. If you notice any of these issues, you need to act quickly. Mold in your basement or crawlspace can be harmful to your health, and rot or termite damage can weaken your home’s structural integrity. Contact a professional basement waterproofing company in Baltimore immediately to limit the damage and prevent major problems in the future.

If your house has a basement, you probably know that it can be rather damp compared to other rooms in your home, especially if it’s unfinished. Homeowners who rarely enter their basements, or those who use them primarily for storage, tend to be unfazed by a little dampness. However, moisture can be a real issue because it allows mold to grow, among other things. Moisture is of particular concern if you plan to create more living space, which will require waterproofing your basement. Before you embark on a costly renovation project, you should know what measures you can use to prevent moisture in your basement.

Stop Water from Entering

There are many ways to stop water from entering your basement. Firstly, make sure that your downspouts are in good working order. To increase their efficiency, extend them so that they are draining rainwater at least 10 feet away from your house’s foundation. Secondly, create a waterproof basement by sealing any concrete or gaps in it. Since concrete is porous, it can absorb a great deal of water. And gaps around egress windows or doorjambs can allow water vapor to enter. Lastly, inspect and maintain your plumbing. Leaky pipes or drains can cause a big problem. If you suspect faulty plumbing, call a professional immediately.

Install a Perimeter Drain

A perimeter drain is another safeguard against unwanted water in your basement. They are very useful because they divert rising groundwater away from your foundation. To ensure their effectiveness, keep perimeter drains clean and protect them from damage.

Invest in a Sump Pump

If your basement is below the water-table line or if you routinely experience flooding during the rainy season, install a sump pump. Not only is it a good preventative measure, but it also gives you piece of mind that your basement will not flood while you are asleep or away on vacation or business.

Go High Tech

There are several gadgets on the market that can prevent water intrusion by detecting leaks in pipes or from rainwater. By using sensors within valves or on the floor, these devices can sound an audible alarm, shut off power or valves, or alert you via email or text message when unwelcomed water is present. A basement waterproofing company in Baltimore can tell you more about the latest advancements in waterproofing technology.

If you live in a home with a crawlspace in Baltimore , you need to ensure that your crawlspace is effectively waterproofed. Crawlspaces are humid and full of moisture, which can cause a host of problems for your home if they are not waterproof. Your crawlspace is out of sight and easily neglected, but it has a significant impact on the air quality in your home, your health, and your home’s energy efficiency.

Prevent Rodent and Pest Infestations

Water and moisture in your crawlspace can damage the wood and ruin your insulation, which attract rodents and other pests. Rodents can enter your home through very tiny holes and gaps, and they love to make nests out of pieces of insulation. A crawlspace that is poorly maintained provides the perfect environment for wildlife and bugs, who can then enter your home and cause further damage. A clean, moisture-free environment that is sealed will prevent such vermin infestations.

Prevent Mold Growth

The humid, moist environment of your crawlspace is perfect for mold growth. Mold can cause respiratory problems, bacterial infections, and can contribute to a number of other illnesses, including asthma and pneumonia. Mold can also cause mycotoxins, which are very harmful to humans and animals, and can lead to neurological issues and even death. Waterproofing your crawlspace will eliminate the moisture and humidity that can cause the harmful growth of mold.

Lower Your Heating and Cooling Costs

Moisture and humidity in your crawlspace can damage the floor insulation in your home, which can raise your energy bills considerably. This insulation helps prevent unconditioned air from entering your home, or heated air from leaving your home. When it is damaged, it becomes ineffective, resulting in an air conditioner or heating system that has to work longer and harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. If your crawlspace is waterproofed and your insulation repaired or replaced, you will notice that your energy bills are significantly decreased.