Basements often contain essential household appliances, electrical panels, and other sensitive wiring. After all, it's the perfect place for keeping these bulky and often unattractive or noisy objects out of sight but easily at hand.
However, basements are known for being damp areas, prone to flooding—and everyone knows that moisture and electricity are a disaster waiting to happen. Failure to keep your basement dry could lead to electrical issues and potentially even fire.
At Premier Basement Waterproofing, we understand these risks to your safety and will work with you to mitigate them. Below, we share tips on keeping your basement dry to help you avoid electrical shorts and other hazards.
How Damp Basements Can Cause Electrical Shorts
Water conducts electricity, so if it gets into your basement and into contact with electrical components in it, it can lead to short circuits. Other ways water can cause electrical issues in your basement include:
- Moisture - While your basement may appear dry, even a small amount of moisture can impact the flow of electrical currents.
- Exposed Wiring - If the wiring in your basement is not properly insulated, it can cause electrical issues if it is exposed to moisture.
- Appliance Malfunctioning - Washers, dryers, and other appliances in the basement can malfunction due to water damage.
Regardless of the cause, these types of issues are easily preventable through proper basement waterproofing and care of your home's electrical system.
Ways to Prevent Moisture-Related Electrical Concerns
Understanding the risks of electrical issues that moisture in your basement presents is one of the first steps in taking action to prevent them. The next steps include:
1. Basement Waterproofing
Basement waterproofing is the most effective way to prevent water damage and related electrical issues. Sealing cracks to stop leaks and applying waterproofing solutions to the floors and walls of the basement are the simplest ways to do that.
Also, consider installing a drainage system or sump pump in order to keep water from building up in your basement. If you're not sure how to best waterproof your basement, consult with professionals, like those at Premier, for further assistance.
2. Moving Appliances & Other Belongings
When water enters your basement, it typically will pool onto the floor. Moving appliances and other electronic items to an elevated platform or higher shelf can keep them away from the water. However, if your basement is particularly prone to flooding, you may want to consider moving your belongings to a safer, drier location in your home.
3. Upgrading Your Outlets
Electrical outlets in your basement allow you to plug in appliances like washers and dryers, helping you perform chores like laundry more conveniently. The right outlet can help you avoid electrical issues in damp areas like basements.
In these settings, consider installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) outlets, which are specially designed to be used in areas where water may be present. When you are ready to do so, an electrician can help you make this upgrade.
4. Regular Electrical Inspections
In order to take preventive measures, you need to know where the potential risks of electrical issues are in your basement. Having your home's electrical system inspected by a qualified electrician can help you determine where you can make upgrades that will reduce your risk of functional and safety concerns.
Signs of Potential Electrical Problems
While not all electrical issues are obvious, especially if they are related to moisture in your basement, there are signs you can look for. These include:
- Flickering lights
- Tripped circuit breakers
- Sparks or electrical fires
- Buzzing sounds from outlets
- Appliances that do not function properly
If you notice any of these signs, contact an electrician as soon as possible. They can pinpoint the cause of these symptoms and repair the issue promptly.
What to Do If You're Experiencing Electrical Issues in Your Basement
Whether the power has gone out or your appliances are malfunctioning, you want to find help as quickly as possible. While you may be tempted to perform your own repairs, it is generally not advisable to do so, especially if water is present.
For your safety, it is best to contact a licensed electrician. They have the tools and expertise to repair any part of your home's electrical system safely. They can also provide expert advice on how to prevent the issue from occurring again.
Stop Electrical Issues Before They Start With Basement Waterproofing
Electrical issues are not just inconvenient. They can be dangerous, too. Fortunately, Premier Basement Waterproofing can help you avoid these problems with our drainage and waterproofing services. We understand the challenges homeowners in Boston face when it comes to keeping their basements dry. To learn how we can help you avoid both water damage and electrical issues, contact us online or call us at (844) 548-3379.
Prevent Electrical Issues With Premier Basement Waterproofing
Keeping their basements dry is just one way that homeowners in Boston can prevent electrical issues from arising. Premier Basement Waterproofing is here to help you do just that. Contact us today to learn how we can stop electrical issues before they start by effectively waterproofing your home's basement.