The sump pump in a corner of your basement doesn’t see a lot of action…until there is a major storm or other flood-related disaster, such as a malfunctioning washing machine. Your Orange County mold testing team recommends a sump pump for every home, as it helps mitigate water damage and subsequently fungal growth. Learn what to do in the event of sump pump failure during a storm to avoid serious mold and water damage issues. 

For Minor Flooding Damage

Use old towels to absorb water in your basement from minor flooding, as well as a wet/dry vacuum to extract any remaining liquid. Place fans and dehumidifiers in the basement to help dry out the space, and open any windows with screens for further drying purposes, assuming it isn’t excessively humid. Ensure your selected appliances are away from the flood water before turning them on, as water is an electrical conduit.

For Major Flooding Damage

Deal with serious floodwaters by using a hand pump. Attach a garden house to the pump, then thread the hose through the pipe connected to your sump pump pit. Manually suck up water with the pump, which allows it to flow through the hose and pipe, and away from your residence. You can also use towels, a wet/dry vac, fans, and dehumidifiers to dry the subterranean space out. 

Check on the basement several times a day to make certain the room is getting drier. See if you notice musty odors indicating mold growth, and schedule a mold inspection in your Glendale home if you suspect an issue. Any infestation over 10 square feet requires professional removal to avoid inhaling a large number of spores and experiencing allergic reactions, including sneezing, wheezing, coughing, throat irritation, and watery eyes. 

Sump Pump Maintenance Tips 

Check your sump pump every month or so by pouring water into the pit. If the pump automatically turns on, it is working and will remove water from your basement in the event of a flood. If it does not turn on, there could be a problem with the motor or impeller. Listen for rattling sounds indicating a faulty motor bearing, and see if the pump vibrates during use, which could mean the impeller, or fan that sucks water into the pump, is bent or damaged. Schedule repairs as necessary to keep the pump operational. 

Also, inspect the pit for hard pieces of debris, such as rocks and pebbles, that can dent the impeller and cause function problems. 
For mold inspection services in Orange County, contact Mold Masters today.