Your home’s main water shut-off valve controls the entire water supply. Whether you’re doing a faucet install or handling a plumbing emergency, knowing where it is — and how to operate it — can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Every homeowner should be able to find and test this valve confidently. Why the Main...
When the rain is pouring and the power goes out, your primary sump pump might go quiet—and that silence can lead to thousands in water damage. That’s where a backup system comes in. As someone who’s been in the basement during those worst-case scenarios, let me tell you: if you don’t have a backup, it’s...
As someone who’s replaced more sump pumps than I can count, I’ve learned one thing the hard way: you don’t want to find out your pump is dead during a storm. Knowing the signs of a failing sump pump and what to look for in a replacement can save you thousands in water damage and...
🌳 Key Takeaway: Don’t Ignore Branches Hanging Over Your Roof Branches hanging over your roof or walkways can cause serious problems — from damaging shingles to creating pest access or injury risks. Trim them as soon as possible, ideally before storm season or signs of wear appear. A proactive approach is cheaper and safer than...
June is an ideal month to test and replace batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors because it’s the start of summer — a time when HVAC systems, grilling, and closed windows all increase risk. A quick check now can prevent tragedy later. Why June Is a Good Month to Test Smoke and CO...
Carbon monoxide poisoning is more common in winter because we run furnaces, space heaters, and use fireplaces — often with windows sealed tight for warmth. Poor ventilation and faulty appliances can turn your home into a danger zone without warning. Why Winter Is Prime Time for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning When the temperature drops, we seal...
If there’s one piece of equipment that quietly protects your home from thousands of dollars in water damage, it’s your sump pump. Yet most homeowners don’t think about it until the basement is flooded and the damage is done. I’ve been in a lot of basements over the years, and I can tell you this:...
If you’ve ever walked into your basement during a heavy rain and heard silence where a sump pump should be humming, you know the feeling. It’s panic. It’s frustration. And it’s the beginning of a race against water damage. As someone who’s helped more than a few homeowners deal with flooded basements, I’ve put together...
One of the most overlooked parts of a sump pump system is where the water actually ends up. It might not seem like a big deal, but where your sump pump discharges that water can have serious consequences—for your basement, your neighbors, your foundation, and even local laws. As a handyman who’s worked on hundreds...
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or someone finally tired of mopping up a wet basement, understanding sump pumps is a must. They’re one of the most underrated home protection systems, quietly keeping your foundation dry and your basement usable—even during the nastiest Northeast Ohio downpour. This guide walks you through everything you need to know...