Introduction

Your basement probably isn’t the part of the house you think about every day. That’s the reason why small basement plumbing problems can turn into big troubles. Small issues like, a minor leakage in pipe, clogged drains, or faulty sump pump can be significant warning signs of serious damages happening underground. Dealing with early issues is easier and economical.

Scheduling the small basement plumbing maintenance can prevent basement water damage.

How to prevent plumbing leaks in the basement

1. Inspect Exposed Pipes Regularly

Every few weeks, one must keep a check on pipes in the basement. It is important to look closely at valves, connections, pipelines, fittings, and other components of the plumbing structure.

Keep a check on:

• Small drips here & there
• Rust or corrosion
• Damp spots
• Water stains
• Unusual condensation

Don’t dismiss a tiny leak. Small leaks have a habit of becoming expensive ones.

2. Keep Your Sump Pump in Good Shape

You need to check the sump pump of your basement. In order to check it thoroughly:

• Pour some water into the sump pit
• Check that the pump starts properly and moves the water away from the house.
• Clear debris from the pit and inspect the discharge line as well

One quick and simple check-up can save you money, time and mess of flooded basement.

3. Prevent Pipes From Freezing

Exposed part of the basement plumbing workflow can be damaged due to cold temperatures. It is often noticed that frozen water makes space and expands within the pipelines which increase the risk factor for cracking.

You can insulate the exposed pipelines and other exterior components, specially during winters. Keep weekly checks into slump pump. Any stagnant water in it can freeze during this time and prevent the pump from draining completely.

4. Keep Basement Drains Clear

A slow drain isn’t just annoying. It is in fact the alarming sign for any blockage or clogs that may be developed within the drainage lines.

Whatever dirt and debris is visible to you, remove it. Make sure no grease, paper/cloth products are flowing down the drainage line. Also, try using strong drainage cleaners to unclog the pass way. If the water still backs up, then call for professional help.

Ignoring repeated water back ups can clog the drainage system to the extent that it could cost you beyond the budget.

5. Keep Rainwater Away From Your Foundation

Not every basement issue is associated with plumbing problems.

The foundation of your house must be protected at all costs. Blocked gutters and incorrectly positioned slopes towards your house can bring rainwater toward the foundation. During heavy rain, that water can eventually find its way inside.

To make sure the rainwater does not directs towards the house, clean the gutters and fix the slopes. If you still notice the water around the foundation, consider focusing on drainage issues.

6. Know Your Main Water Shut-Off

This is one of those points you would wish to know before any emergency situation occur.

Make sure the main shut off valves of your house are working properly. In any emergency situation, shut off the main valve completely to supress the further damage

7. Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs

Musty smells. Water stains. A constantly running pump. Unexplained increases in your water bill.

These are the warning signs you must never ignore. Basement problems start with these issues. Scheduling regular maintenance can prevent and diagnose major problems while they are still manageable.

Conclusion 

Knowing how to prevent plumbing leaks in the basement is not a rocket science. Anybody with strong will power and basic knowledge can perform it. It is all about paying attention.

Do the following things regularly –

• Check your pipes
• Test your sump pump
• Keep drains clear
• Protect plumbing from freezing
• Keep rainwater away from your foundation

The simple answer to how to protect basement plumbing from water damage is to find minor problems beforehand. Getting things fixed and not waiting for a puddle to tell you something is wrong is the most clever move.

Apart from this, basement plumbing maintenance by HVAC Morgan can save you from very unpleasant plumbing experiences.