GREENSBORO, N.C. — When Consumer Reports’ Paul Hope’s basement flooded last fall, he was shocked. As one of CR’s home and garden experts, he already had a sump pump installed and ready to go!
“We knew our basement was prone to flooding, and we thought we had done what we needed to do by having a sump pump in the first place. Unfortunately, it failed while we were away. But the good news is that because we had a sump pump in our basement, we had a policy that covered the damage to our basement," said Paul Hope, Consumer Reports.
Now Paul tells all homeowners to look for a sump pump with a battery backup for when the electricity goes out—but the rain doesn’t.
Even without a flood, you want to keep your home free from any water damage. That’s where newer technology can give you a critical heads-up. A leak detector system will alert you to any leaks in your home, and that could save you thousands on potential repairs.
To monitor a handful of trouble spots in your home, consider this X-Sense Wi-Fi Water Leak Detector SWS54 for $50, which offers a hub with a siren and three wireless sensors you can place throughout your home.
THE FREE & EASY TEST TO SEE IF YOU HAVE A LEAK SOMEWHERE
Check your home water meter and look at the numbers. For two hours, don't use any water, and check the meter at the end of the two hours. If it goes up you probably have a leak.