Basement waterproofing is an essential aspect of maintaining your home — especially if you live in the Palos Hills, Illinois area. It protects your home from damage caused by water seepage, which can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and a host of other issues.
However, power outages often occur during severe weather conditions, which can render your sump pump useless and leave your basement vulnerable to water damage. This is where a backup generator comes in.
Below, this basement waterproofing company in Palos Hills, Illinois is going to explain why a backup generator is a must-have for your basement waterproofing needs.
The Importance of a Backup Generator for Basement Waterproofing Purposes
Power outages can occur at any time, and when they do, your sump pump will stop working (assuming it’s powered by electricity). This can be disastrous, especially if you’re not home to manually remove the water.
Fortunately, a backup generator will ensure that your sump pump continues to function even during power outages, preventing water damage to your basement.
Moreover, a backup generator can also power other important appliances in your home — like your refrigerator, lights, and heating systems. This means that your family can continue to live comfortably even during extended power outages.
How a Backup Generator Works
A backup generator is a device that produces electricity using fuel like natural gas, propane, or diesel. It is connected to your home’s electrical system and automatically turns on when it detects a power outage. Once it’s turned on, it will continue to produce electricity until the power is restored.
A backup generator is typically installed outside your home and requires a transfer switch to be connected to your electrical system. This switch ensures that the generator’s electricity is only used to power essential appliances, preventing overload and damage to your home’s electrical system.
Choosing the Right Backup Generator
When choosing a backup generator, it’s essential to consider your home’s power needs. The size of the generator you need will depend on the appliances you want to power during an outage. For basement waterproofing purposes, you should look for a generator that can power your sump pump continuously for at least 24 hours.
It’s also important to consider the fuel source for your generator. Natural gas is the most common fuel source, but it may not be available in all areas.
Propane and diesel are other options, but they require on-site storage, which can be expensive. It’s always best to consult with a professional basement waterproofing company in Palos Hills, Illinois to determine which generator is best suited for your needs.
Maintenance and Upkeep of Your Backup Generator
Like any other appliance, a backup generator requires regular maintenance to ensure it’s in good working condition. It’s important to change the oil and air filter regularly and conduct regular inspections to check for any issues.
It’s also crucial to test your generator regularly to ensure it’s working correctly. This involves running it for a short period to make sure it’s producing electricity and that it’s connected correctly to your electrical system.
A professional basement waterproofing company in Palos Hills, Illinois can help you with the maintenance and upkeep of your generator.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Backup Generator for Basement Waterproofing
There are several common mistakes that homeowners make when using backup generators for basement waterproofing. One of the most common mistakes is overloading the generator. It’s essential to only power essential appliances to prevent overload and damage to your home’s electrical system.
Another mistake is not conducting regular maintenance and upkeep. Neglecting your generator can lead to breakdowns and malfunctions during power outages.
Finally, it’s important to ensure that your generator is installed correctly by a professional. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards and damage to your home.
Looking for a Basement Waterproofing Company in Palos Hills, Illinois?
Are you ready to install a backup generator that will keep your basement waterproofing equipment running during a power outage? If so, ULB-DRY Waterproofing is here to help. As the top-rated basement waterproofing company in Palos Hills, Illinois, we can inspect your property and recommend the appropriate backup generator for your needs.
Contact us today to get in touch with our staff.