Why a pump is your first line of defence against winter floods
Winter flooding has devastated the UK in recent years, and the winter of 2016/17 is set to bring more of the same misery for households all over the country. If you want to be prepared for the worst the weather can throw at you, you’ll need to invest in a decent pump that can prevent water damaging your property and help you clean up quickly once the floodwaters subside.
Sign up for flood alerts
If you’re in a high risk area, signing up for flood alerts is the smart thing to do. Once a flood alert is issued, get an emergency kit of essential items together and check your pump is in good working order by testing and cleaning. If the alert turns to a warning then you’ll need to be on your guard for water entering your house.
First line of defence
A pump is your first line of defence when water levels rise and you want to prevent damage to your property.
Try and install the pump in a sump – a low point that water can drain into – and be prepared for the process to take days or even weeks. You’ll need a permit from the local council, water company or Environmental Agency depending on where you intend to get rid of the water. A smart move is to contact the Fire Brigade, who can give valuable help and advice on obtaining permits.
Pumping out a flooded basement
You’ll need to be extremely careful when using water pumps with flooded basements. If it’s nearly full of water, pump out just 2-3 feet a day. Drain it too quickly and the pressure outside the walls will exceed the pressure inside the walls, causing walls and floors to crack and collapse. Be aware that operating an electric pump in a wet area can be potentially dangerous, and if there’s a power cut you may need a diesel powered pump until power is restored.
Anglian Pumping recommend
Grundfos KP Pumps – Easy-to-install, it’s an ideal investment for any water drainage system.
Designed for the pumping of drain water or grey wastewater, the Grundfos KP is a single stage drainage pump complete with a semi open impeller.
At Anglian Pumping, we pride ourselves on providing the right equipment to deal with any situation, so contact us today for advice and information about flood defences for your home.