Draining a Flooded Basement

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding is a regular source of frustration for many Chuckey, TN homes with a basement

What To Do After a Basement Flood

Flooding is a regular source of frustration for many Chuckey, TN homes with a basement. As the lowest part of the home that is also often partially below ground, heavy rains and other storms can result in a flooded basement. In addition, water heaters, laundry machines, and other household items containing water pipes are often located here, and when a pipe bursts, the mess can be brutal. As such, it is important to know what to do after a basement flood to minimize damage and dry the area as soon as possible.

Tools

The most important tool to treat your basement flood is a submersible pump, as it will literally suck out the water in the basement and send it outside of the home. If you choose to pump the basement on your own, you will need the following items:

A submersible pump that includes a waterproof casing, a sealed electrical cord, and a spot to connect a hose
Your existing garden hose or sump hose
A heavy duty extension cord
A generator capable of running the pump
A nylon rope

Process

The bulk of the work is actually done outside of the house. Set up the pump and all your equipment in your yard, paying special attention to ensuring your garden hose will run the water down a hill and away from your home. Tie the nylon rope to the submersible pump so that you can safely lower it into the basement flood. Ensure all cords are properly attached and well away from water, stringing them into the basement ceiling if needed.

Additional Considerations

Ensure all flooding has receded from your property before pumping, as remaining standing water is likely to seep back into your basement. Also remember to consult your insurance coverage where applicable before pumping your basement, as your carrier may have specific requirements around seeing the damage. Finally, consult with a mold remediation and removal company once the basement has dried, as hidden dampness and black mold could develop. A flooded basement can be a major headache for you and your family, but with the right equipment, it doesn’t have to be.