A flooding basement can quickly turn into a nightmare! Be prepared for this common problem.

Water in a basement can be difficult to pinpoint. Even a small basement flood can turn into a large problem for a homeowner. It can cause serious damage, cause buildup of mold and mildew, and a foul odor can linger.

Basements are prone to flooding because they’re built partially or entirely underground. Oftentimes, basements flood during rain storms. Sometimes basements flood because there’s a leak present in a plumbing fixture or appliance. First, it’s important to know what to do when your basement floods. These next few tips can help you manage a flooded basement while you wait for a professional plumber to fix the problem.

1. Turn off the electricity

Safety is always the top priority! With a flooded basement there could be a risk of electric shock, which could cause someone harm. To avoid any electrical accidents and injury, turn off the power to your house. This way you can learn more about the flood, save any items that may be submerged, and work on a temporary solution without being hurt.

2. Rent a gasoline-powered water pump

With a basement that is frequently flooding, some choose to rent or buy a gasoline-powered water pump. They’re handy to have in case of an emergency. A water pump will suck the water out of your basement and push it outside. A gasoline-powered water pump is recommended over a plug in because with heavy rain the power may go out. In this case, even an installed sump pump will not work, meaning a gasoline-powered water pump is the best option.

3. Find the source of the flooding

Finding the source of a basement flood can be tricky. There are many possibilities, but with a flood you can determine the source through inspection. Many homes have plumbing fixtures and appliances in the basement. A washer machine could break during a cycle, the water heater or furnace could have a leak, and so on. The foundation around the basement could also need to be sealed. These are all possible scenarios, which is why it’s best to consult with a professional. Working with a professional plumber can help you identify the source of the problem and offer a solution.

4. Remove all wet and waterlogged items

This step is obvious but good to mention. Water can cause significant damage to items, especially if they’re left in water for too long. So once it's safe and a good time to do so, remove all items that have been touched by water and place them somewhere to dry out. Also, if your basement floods often it’s probably best not to store valuable items in the basement such as decorations, food, clothes, etc.

5. Use a wet-dry vacuum to pull up remaining water

Water in a basement can stay trapped for a long time. Over time the water will begin to grow bacteria and smell funky. If possible, use a wet-dry vacuum to suck up the last bit of water.

6. Get air flowing through the area

In addition to a wet-dry vacuum, fans can also help dry the area. Since basements are enclosed, underground spaces, window are not typically present. Without windows, it's difficult to circulate fresh air throughout the room. With a few fans running, the air flow can help improve basement ventilation and contribute to a dryer basement.

7. Turn on a dehumidifier

Lastly, to help reduce the moisture in the basement use a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier helps to draw the moisture out of the air and into a tank. Every so often the tank will need to be emptied. Many homeowners use dehumidifiers year round.

Basements flood all the time. It’s a common problem homeowners experience. Some basements are more prone to flooding than others. With that, homeowners often choose to install a sump pump. Sump pumps are designed to prevent flooding after rainfall. Even so, it’s best to be prepared for a flood, especially when they are occurring more often. Of course, having a plumber you can trust and rely on for situations such as a flood is extremely valuable. Edwards Plumbing is highly experienced with many plumbing fixes and can be your handy plumber for years to come. Call Edwards Plumbing today!