It looks like it’s going to be a rainy week in Middletown. We’ve talked about the importance of a sump pump during rainy seasons to keep your basement dry, and that if you notice your sump pump acting strange you should call us. But there are also some other plumbing problems that can happen in stormy weather that can affect your plumbing system’s health and your family’s safety.
When an excessive amount of water backs up your sewer system, it can cause backdrafting in your home. It’s imperative that you find out how to prevent this from happening and how to handle it if it does in order to keep your family safe.
What is Backdrafting?
Appliances such as boilers and water heaters are designed to release harmful byproducts such as carbon monoxide and explosive methane gases through a flue where they safely exit the home. But when excessive rain water backs up your drain system, it can cause negative air pressure inside the home to draw in these dangerous gases. If this happens in your home, you’ll notice a sewer odor in your home. It’s important to identify where negative air pressure could be coming from, particularly during rain, sewer, or storm drain flooding. Some possibilities could be:
- Improperly installed exhaust fans
- Plumbing vents installed too closely to a window, a soffit vent or a bathroom/kitchen vent
- Plumbing drains packed with debris
- An improperly located water heater
How Can Putman Plumbing Fix My Backdrafting Problem?
If you notice a sewer-like smell after heavy rains, be sure to call us for professional plumbing help. We will run tests to determine if backdrafting is the cause and if it is, we’ll find out why it’s happening. We may need to find a safer place to install your water heater, clear drains, or replace plumbing vents and exhaust fans. You can be certain we are the best plumbing company in Frederick County for the job!
Call Putman Plumbing for your sump pump or ventilation needs today. We’ll be happy to help.
