holiday Archives - G.F. Bowman, Inc.

Sump Pump Installation Is a High-Value Holiday Gift for Homeowners

Looking for a practical holiday gift for a homeowner this winter? A sump pump may be a valuable holiday gift list item to consider purchasing for homeowners who struggle with water in their basement forming standing puddles or downright floods.

A sump pump removes the water from the basement and pumps it outside the house. Sump pump replacement or installation can raise the home value and protect from water damage for years to come.

Without a sump pump, the homeowner will be left mopping up the puddling water to prevent a flooded basement, which can be time-consuming and ineffective. Leaving puddles of water standing in the basement can lead to mold, mildew, and can negatively impact the structural integrity of the building.

Why Sump Pump Installation Is Necessary

Groundwater from precipitation can naturally gather on a cement basement floor. To keep this rainwater from causing water damage, installing a sump pump removes water from the house and pumps it outside.

For new sump pump installation, the basement first needs a water basin to be cut out of the floor, where the water will gather. As the basin fills with water, the sump pump removes it to the outside of the house.

The Hazards of a Flooded Basement

Mold and mildew
Respiratory problems
Accidental slips and falls
Electrocution
Property damage
Loss of structural integrity
Bug larvae grow in stagnant water

Which Kind of Sump Pump Is the Best?

There are a few different kinds of sump pumps. The right one for a home will depend on the structure itself and the environmental factors that contribute to the water gathering in the basement.

Homes in heavily steep areas with a lot of groundwater runoff may need a larger and more powerful sump pump. When the sump pump is too small or not working efficiently, it will not keep the basement from flooding.

Pedestal pumps sit above ground vs. submersible pumps which sit underground. Pedestal pumps are more affordable than submersibles, but they tend to break down more often partially because they are exposed and they can be damaged easier that way. It can also be more difficult to find a good place in the basement for a pedestal pump because they sit above-ground.

Submersible pumps are more expensive than pedestal pumps, with the trade-off for the higher price tag being that they are more powerful and long-lasting. Submersible pumps sit directly in the basin of water.

The water helps to cool down the motor for long-lasting performance. Homes with a lot of water runoff in their basement may need a submersible pump, as a pedestal pump may not pack enough power.

Do You Need a Backup Sump Pump?

Just like any other piece of home hardware, sometimes a sump pump can stop working. Some sump pumps require electricity to power the motor, so when the power goes out, the sump pump stops too. In the case of a power blackout or a malfunction, having a backup sump pump may be necessary to prevent the basement from flooding.

About G.F. Bowman, Inc.

G.F. Bowman, Inc. is a trusted local plumbing company that offers comprehensive plumbing services at fair prices from expert plumbers. Call them today for sump pump services in Harrisburg, PA!

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Common Water Heater Repair Signals

The last thing any homeowner wants during the excitement of the holiday season is a water heater emergency. Especially with the temperature dropping, warm water is essential this time of year. Here are the telltale signs that a gas water heater needs repairs or replacement so that homeowners can enter this time of year fully prepared for colder temperatures.

How To Tell if a Water Heater Needs Repair

There are a few ways to learn if a water heater needs repair or professional inspection.

Change in warm water: If a homeowner notices that the warm water does not get as hot as it typically does, or if the hot water does not last as long, there are a few things they can check to determine if the water heater needs to repair. First, they should check the water heater's temperature settings to make sure it was not accidentally changed. They should also determine if they have been using more hot water than normal. If neither of these seems to be the issue, it is likely a water heater problem.

Rusty water: While rusty water can be a sign of pipe problems, it can also be a sign that the water heater itself is damaged and rusting. In this case, it is best to have a professional take a look.

Odd noises: If homeowners start hearing clanking or other odd noises coming from the water heater, it is most likely from sediment build up. Water heaters make a normal amount of noise on their own, but if homeowners notice a change such as popping or banging, they should have it inspected.

Leaks: If homeowners notice a change in their hot water and a pool of water forming below their water heater, it is likely caused by a leak and is a sign that the water heater must be repaired.

What Causes Faulty Water Heaters?

There are a few reasons water heaters can become faulty, including:

Age: The average lifespan of a water heater is around 10 years. If it starts becoming faulty around that age, it will most likely need to be replaced.

Rust: If the water heater starts to rust, it can start to cause issues such as the aforementioned rusty water and, if not treated, may cause irreversible damage.

Sediment: Sediment buildup is cause for not only pipe issues but also water heater issues. When the water is heated, sediment can settle in the tank, leading to issues.

If these issues sound familiar, homeowners should likely reach out to their local plumbing companies to schedule an inspection.

When Should Water Heaters Be Replaced?

If water heaters start to act faulty or reach the age of 10 years, it may be time to replace them. While there are a few ways mentioned above to determine if a water heater needs to be repaired, it is best to have a professional look to determine if those repairs are manageable or if the water heater needs to be replaced.

About G.F. Bowman, Inc.

With more than 50 years of experience, the G.F. Bowman, Inc. team not only has a thorough background but is constantly learning the newest technologies in their field. Dedicated to quality service so that their customers can have peace of mind knowing they are in the right hands. Call now for quality water heater services!