HARRISON, Ohio, Dec. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The experts at Red Devil and WAYNE Pumps know the damage that winter weather can do to your home and wallet. Drafts and gaps can drain energy and greatly impact your utility bills. Water damage from melt off or pipes that burst can cost thousands, and threaten family heirlooms that cannot be replaced. Plus, imagine trying to get rid of standing water in freezing temperatures!

"Sump pumps are your first line of defense against water damage," said Matt Dempsey, Director of Retail, WAYNE Pumps. "For complete basement protection, a sump pump should also have a reliable battery backup system, since power tends to go out during storms." He also recommends the company's new iSwitch Technology, with no moving parts to corrode or wear out that lasts five times longer than other switches in the market.

Winter can also be a literal drain on energy bills. Sealing with caulk can be a powerful tool and it's easy to do. "Homeowners in this economy are looking for ways to save money by tackling home improvement projects themselves," said Jason Ringling, Red Devil, Director of Marketing. "They can save up to 20 percent savings on utility bills by effectively caulking problem areas," he said, "And, caulk products that do multiple jobs help them save even more." For example, Red Devil's King Kaulk is a caulk, sealant and adhesive all in one.

Both company experts agree that a little prevention can save a ton in dollars and aggravation. Here are tips to winterize your home before you get too deep into winter's cold clutches.

• Check for energy leaks and drafts main culprits are under the door jamb, around windows, exhaust pipes and vents.
• Use a caulk like Red Devil's LIFETIME that is lifetime-guaranteed to seal off gaps in windows. It can be used in summer heat or freezing temperatures and lasts as long as you own your home.
• Disconnect garden hoses in areas where freezing temperatures could burst your pipes and flood your basement.
• Be sure your sump pumps and battery back-up systems are in working order. Test by pouring water into your sump pit to turn it on.
• Clean gutters and make sure downspouts drain far away from the home foundation.
• Protect all well pumps from freezing temps by removing drain plugs and investing in pipe insulation or heat tape; make sure pump location is kept above 32 degrees F.
• Make sure all sump and utility pump discharges extend away from the home. Standing water can freeze and possibly damage foundations.
• Cycle test your HVAC system's condensation pump, making sure the discharge line is clear and securely fastened. Pour water in to test. This way, water ends up in the drain and not on your basement floor.

By following these simple home preventative and maintenance measures, you can keep your home and valuables safe and dry all winter long. For more information, visit www.waynepumps.com or www.reddevil.com.

SOURCE WAYNE Pumps

Back to top

RELATED LINKS
http://www.waynepumps.com