April showers bring May flowers, but all of that rain water can be a plumbing nightmare for Brooklyn homeowners. Many homes have the issue of water in the basement. Why is water in the basement a problem? What can be done about flooded basements? Your Brooklyn plumbers are here to help.
Why Is There Water in My Basement?
Springtime rains are a big cause of water in the basement. Sometimes problems with the city water system, such as broken water mains, can contribute to water in the basement. Very rarely, we see water in the basement due to a problem with the home’s plumbing, such as what happens after pipes freeze and burst. This is more often an issue we see in the winter.
Why Is Water In the Basement A Problem?
Water in the basement is a problem for several reasons. First of all is the issue that water accumulates rapidly. During a heavy rain event, several inches of water can accumulate in a very short time. Water damages the interior of homes. Any carpeting, furniture, or possessions you have stored in the basement can be ruined. Water conducts electricity, so if the flood waters come in contact with outlets, electrical panels, or wiring, you can have a serious problem. Water can even damage the structural integrity of your home, causing the foundation to become damaged.
What Prevents Basements from Flooding?
Sump pumps are the first line of defense to prevent your house from flooding. Sump pumps are installed in the lowest point of the basement. When water accumulates, the pump activates, quickly and quietly removing the water from your home. When your sump pump is working properly, you should have no problems with water in your basement.
The issue with sump pumps is like anything, they only last so long. The estimated useful life of a sump pump is between 10-15 years. Most people never think about their sump pump until it stops working. As Brooklyn plumbers we’ve seen more than a few sump pumps that were old enough to buy their own beer! The main issue if your sump pump has stopped working is sump pump replacement. This is generally done without making any other changes to the home. Sump pumps are not often repaired, due to their advanced age when problems develop.
