Richmond, Virginia, is no stranger to severe weather. That’s why it’s important to be prepared for storm and hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th. Here are some tips from experts at Woodfin – Your Home Team to help homeowners prepare their home systems for storm season. By following these tips, homeowners can help protect their homes and families from the effects of severe weather.
Install a Sump Pump and Regularly Test and Maintain It
A sump pump is crucial for protecting homes from flooding during heavy rains and storms. It collects excess water and pumps it away from the foundation, preventing water damage and potential structural issues. Installing a sump pump is a wise investment, particularly in areas prone to storms and flooding.
It’s also important to have a sump pump backup to ensure its effectiveness. A backup sump pump provides an extra layer of protection in case the primary pump fails or loses power during a power outage. Additionally, the regular inspection and maintenance of existing sump pumps help identify and resolve potential issues before the sump pump is needed. Homeowners can also test their sump pumps routinely to ensure they work correctly. By taking these steps, homeowners can minimize the risk of flooding and safeguard their home’s structural integrity and possessions during storm season and beyond.
Clear Debris From Gutters and Downspouts
Clearing any debris from gutters and downspouts is of utmost importance in preparing for storm season. Gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing rainwater away from a home’s foundation, preventing flooding, water damage, and structural issues. When debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt, accumulates in gutters and downspouts, it can block the flow of water, causing it to overflow and pool around the home. This excess water can seep into the foundation, leading to cracks and other damage. It can also create a breeding ground for pests.
Additionally, clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up onto the roof, where it can damage shingles and other roofing materials. This can lead to leaks and further water damage inside the home. By regularly clearing debris from gutters and downspouts, people can help protect their homes from these problems.
Install a Surge Protector
Power surges are a common occurrence during storms, and they can cause significant damage to a home’s electrical system, devices, and appliances. A whole-home surge protector installation can help protect the home and its electronics from these damaging power surges.
A whole-home surge protector is installed at a home’s main electrical panel and works by diverting excess voltage away from the home’s electrical system and grounding it. This helps to protect the home’s electrical system, devices, and appliances from damage caused by power surges. Whole-home surge protectors are an effective way to protect a home from the damaging effects of power surges, and they are especially important during storm season.
Install a Generator and Regularly Test and Maintain It
Installing a whole-home generator is beneficial for homes and families during storm season. When severe weather strikes, power outages can occur, leaving the household without electricity. A standby generator automatically turns on when the power goes out and provides backup power to a home, ensuring that essential appliances and systems continue functioning. This can prevent significant inconvenience, discomfort, and even danger, especially when people rely on medical devices or have perishable food in their refrigerators.
The regular maintenance and testing of a whole-house generator is also important. A well-maintained generator will perform correctly when it’s needed most and testing the generator regularly ensures that it starts and runs properly. By following these steps, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that their standby generator is ready to provide reliable backup power when the next storm hits.
About Woodfin – Your Home Team
Woodfin – Your Home Team is a family-owned plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and generator company serving the Richmond area. They offer same-day service, emergency service, and straightforward pricing. Call them for whole-home surge protector installation, whole-home generator installation, and sump pump installation services in Richmond, VA.