There is a storm approachingIs Your Home Ready for Isaias?
The Northeast is expected to feel the remnants of Tropical Storm Isaias on Tuesday. While not a hurricane, this tropical storm is producing winds of over 60 mph (with 70 mpg gusts). While Isaias may be 1,500 miles away right now, it won’t be long before reaching our area with the potential to disrupt power and create problems all around your home.
Here are some things you should think about in preparing for this potentially damaging weather event.
About Isaias
Tropical Storm Isaias has officially formed in the Atlantic Ocean, the ninth named storm system of the busy 2020 hurricane season.
As of this writing, the storm passed over Hispaniola on Thursday and the Southeastern Bahamas Friday, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Check or Upgrade Your Sump Pump
Fill your sump pit with enough water to raise the float until the pump activates. If you’re filling the pit and the water level gets near the top of the pit, but the pump doesn’t activate, you may have a bad switch. If the pump does activate, it should lower the water level in the pit, removing almost all of the water.
But what about a power outage? Schaible’s has sump pumps with battery backups. There are even water-powered auxiliary pumps available.
Protect your HVAC System
Brownouts and blackouts happen resulting in a loss of power, tripped breakers, or damaging power surges. These power issues can cause havoc on your home AC. When power is restored, or when the power to the home flickers, sensitive components in electrical systems can get over-charged, burn up or short circuit.
The solution: invest in a surge protector. Schaible’s can provide and install a surge protector ideally suited for your system.
Spotlight on Drains
A leader drain is a pipe that connects to your downspouts. It takes the water from your roof and gutters, and drains that stormwater away from your home. This prevents water problems in your basement and around your home’s foundation.
The solution: check to ensure your leader drain, along with the down spouts, are clear of leaves and debris.