Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
Why Choose SERVPRO?
4/29/2022 (Permalink)
Your friends at SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton hope that choosing us will always be an easy choice. However, if you need more convincing, the following are reasons that we hope you’ll trust us to make your damage feel, “Like it never even happened.”
SERVPRO® Is Faster to any size disaster™
- A fast response is key when damage from water, fire, storms, or other sources occurs. Day or night, any time of year, residents and business owners in our communities can expect us to respond quickly and efficiently to their damage emergencies.
We’re Highly Trained Damage Specialists
- We specialize in water damage restoration, as well as fire, storm, mold and other types of restoration. Our teams go through extensive training through IICRC, which sets industry standards. They're taught a proven process and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and so much more.
We Utilize Advanced Technology & Techniques
- We invest in the latest technology and equipment. This helps us to be able to restore homes and businesses more quickly and efficiently while helping to minimize cost. This equipment includes:
- Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment
- Water Extraction Equipment
- Drying Equipment
- Odor Removal & Deodorization Equipment
- Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, & Antimicrobial Treatments
We hope that you will choose us, and we hope you’ll remember that we are always Here to Help®!
For information on how we can help, you can call SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton at 251-809-1260.
Understanding Your Mold Coverage
4/28/2022 (Permalink)
Understanding Your Mold Protection
You purchase insurance for your home to protect it and save yourself the cost of repairing damages. Mold issues can lower property value and even make a home almost impossible to sell. Most homeowner’s policies, however, do not cover the services of mold remediation specialists. Even if your policy does offer some type of mold coverage, there is usually a pretty low cap to the amount of your potential payout. Since fungus growth can often be prevented, its presence tends to be seen as more the fault of the homeowner than as a circumstance beyond one’s control.
Mold Prevention
Even if you have mold insurance or a policy that includes mold remediation, you need to be able to prove that you have done everything to prevent the problem from occurring. You can protect your home from mold simply by following some key prevention tips:
- Check indoor water sources for leaks frequently.
- Fix problems you find immediately.
- Lower the humidity of your home.
- Watch for condensation or standing water.
- Ventilate bathrooms, laundry rooms and attics appropriately.
Guarding against excess water can inhibit fungus growth and thereby decrease the need for an insurance policy that covers it. Prevention is the best way to protect your home from damage caused by mold.
Mold Coverage
An extensive mold problem can appear quickly, but there are usually extenuating circumstances that lead up to it, making it difficult to get insurance to cover the cost of remediation. Any problem that could have been foreseen or halted at its early stages is less likely to warrant an adjuster’s approval. If you believe that your mold issue is an exception, it is a good idea to enlist mold remediation technicians to back up your reasoning when the adjuster arrives.
No one likes to see fungus growth in their homes, nor does one like the bad news that it probably won’t be something their insurance covers. With proper prevention techniques or the expert opinion of a certified technician, you may be able to avoid the high out-of-pocket cost of mold remediation.
If you have questions related to mold or mold remediation, call the experts at SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton at 251-809-1260.
Choose SERVPRO for Mold Remediation
6/19/2021 (Permalink)
For most homeowners, mold is not even on the list of dangers to their residences. Fire and especially flooding are what occupies most people’s concerns over their home and checkbook. What many forget is that mold can grow unnoticed for years to become just as expansive and expensive a threat.
So why use SERVPRO for cleaning and removing mold damage to your home? Our restoration teams train to the latest industry standards for cleaning and remediation. Our office maintains an extensive inventory of cleaners and equipment for a rapid response. If we do need additional, specialized tools, our access to a national support network ensures we can get everything we need in usually only a day.
The first step our technicians take is to isolate the mold infested areas from the rest of your home. They turn off the HVAC system and, if the ducts are clear of mold, cover the vents with plastic to prevent contaminating them while cleaning. As they do this, other team members seal off the affected area with heavy, plastic sheets and set up a combination of air movers and fans to create negative air pressure and direct loose spores out of your home.
Now, our restoration team removes mold from surfaces in the affected area. The type of surface determines what tools we use. If a surface is metal, glass or plastic, it is non-porous, which means the mold rarely penetrates the surface. Our technicians can wipe these surfaces free of the mold using clothes or sponges. For thicker layers, they may need to use water or a mild cleaning agent to break them up for removal.
For items like carpets, wood, or building materials like drywall, mold often grows or settles into the surface. These are porous surfaces and are harder to clean. SERVPRO technicians have to use stronger cleaning agents and a brush to agitate the mold to draw it out. In many cases, especially with drywall, we recommend disposal since it is cheaper to replace the items than expend the labor hours to restore them.
Afterward, we wait for any spores disturbed by our efforts to settle on surfaces. Our teams use vacuums with special, HEPA filters designed to draw out even a single mold spore from a table or chair. They finish by wiping down the surfaces and then repeat these last actions until the air mold content tests at a safe level.
SERVPRO Can Handle Biohazard Cleanup
6/18/2021 (Permalink)
Blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. Even trace amounts so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye can pose serious health risks. When a site in your home or business has been contaminated, how do you make it safe again? Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO for top-notch biohazard cleanup and restoration services.
Avoiding Health Risks
Is it necessary to seek professional assistance in cleaning up a location impacted by crime, trauma or death? With the risks posed by blood-borne pathogens and dangerous communicable diseases, cleaning a scene contaminated with biohazards like blood is a perilous undertaking for anyone who lacks the proper training and equipment. It is unpleasant to think about, but blood and bodily fluids are prone to splattering so that minute amounts can affect a wide area. The air at these scenes can be hazardous since small particles can become airborne if dried material is disturbed. Anything removed from the scene must also be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the contamination. Besides, you cannot assume the area is safe again just because the visible traces have been removed. If a space contaminated with blood or other biohazards is not appropriately cleaned, sanitized and restored, these unseen hazards can linger, posing a threat to anyone who enters it. Ultimately, the best way to make sure that a place is once again safe is to use a professional organization like SERVPRO that is experienced in biohazard restoration.
Preventing Legal Repercussions
As if the health risks created by biohazards are not dire enough, failure to have a contaminated space properly cleaned can also have serious legal consequences. The responsibility for cleaning up after a crime, trauma or death falls on the property owner, and there are regulations and laws regarding how biohazards are handled that must be followed. These rules are designed to safeguard everyone, and ignorance is not considered an acceptable excuse for disregarding them. Individuals and businesses that do not follow these rules may find themselves facing hefty fines. They might even be held liable if someone else is injured by their actions. Using a professional team that understands what is required to comply with the various rules and regulations governing biohazards in your area can shield you from both health risks and legal issues.
Focusing on Your Safety At SERVPRO, we are committed to the well-being of our customers. Offering emergency services 24 hours a day, we will rapidly respond whenever you request our assistance. Our technicians follow the protocols established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you can be confident that they have the expertise and training to remove all biohazards and dispose of them properly. We use specialized equipment that allows us to detect the presence of even a minute trace of a biohazard, and we do not stop until your scene is thoroughly sanitized. As biohazard restoration professionals, we can often salvage items that others might have to discard, and we ensure that any material that does need to be removed from your location is disposed of appropriately. Dealing with a crime, trauma or death is undoubtedly difficult, but you can depend on SERVPRO for courtesy, empathy, and the quality biohazard cleanup and restoration services that you need. Safety-minded, we are ready to do our part in restoring your space and your peace of mind.
Training is the Key at SERVPRO
6/17/2021 (Permalink)
Training is vital in our industry. Things are constantly changing. Our team needs to stay up on the newest technology as well as the newest information and requirements from insurance companies.
We trained on the use of our proprietary software program that we utilize in the field to collect and record data in regards to clients losses. This information forms the story of the loss for insurance companies and the client for documentation. It is vital to record the information in regards to affected materials and the process of restoring the affected materials.
Our team has weekly Monday production meetings to go over any thing of importance but we also do more in depth trainings like these as needed to keep us up to date on information and well informed to make sure we are always ready to help our clients with the most up to date information.
Water Migration Detection is Why SERVPRO Delivers Success
6/16/2021 (Permalink)
When a homeowner tries to determine the extent of a water loss, both instincts and common sense can fall short. When water gets loose inside your home, it can migrate far from the original plumbing break, roof leak, or appliance breakdown. Without the tools to detect the path the water followed, significant damage can go unnoticed. Our investments in education and innovative moisture identification tools help avoid additional expense and secondary damage, why we offer our help.
Water Detection is a Science and an Art
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) courses our managers and production technicians master covers the expected and unexpected behavior of water damage inside a bungalow. The lathe and plaster and stucco construction of signature Arts and Crafts structures are both charming and capable of hiding water damage when it is minor and manageable. Our training and experience in tracing water meanderings behind walls and built-in fixtures explains why we are skilled in finding and solving water problems before the integrity of your historic home is compromised.
Aging Heating and Plumbing Plus Temperature Extremes Equal Water Damage Challenges
When your dining room oak floor develops cupping and crowning the search for a water source can be daunting. Bungalows often retain their 100-year-old gravity heating, with old radiators filled with hot water from the boiler in the basement warming spaces. Rusted pipes and failing valves can slowly saturate the floor, unnoticed at first as the issue begins and then spreads from behind the radiator at the wall. Mold development on a main level wall or ceiling can trace to ice dam development the previous winter, moisture seeping in the attic from clogged gutters eventually traveling downwards. Our familiarity with this type of insidious damage is why SERVPRO can respond quickly and reliably to your water damage challenges.
Sensitive Moisture Meters and Infrared Cameras
The availability of and skill in using water detection tools are why SERVPRO crews can outline water damage with accuracy and confidence. Infrared technology indicates the presence of water through temperature variations. Moisture meters establish relative levels of absorbed water in building materials. Periodic use of these tools throughout a water damage remediation project ensures we find and release liquids. Then our Applied Structural Drying (ASD)-certified technicians create an effective drying plan using the data, moving water out of structural components with temperature adjustments and air movement. Dehumidifiers capture the vaporized water for disposal. Moisture measurements continue until we reach designated levels, avoiding over or under drying.
Training and innovative equipment are two reasons why SERVPRO efficiently mitigates and remediates hidden water damage.
SERVPRO's Trained Restoration Specialists
6/15/2021 (Permalink)
We have always put a high priority into educating our team. That need is more important than ever today. SERVPRO is an IICRC certified firm with certified technicians. That means you can expect the very highest in standards and protocol to be used in your home or business.
IICRC Training and Certification
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.
Employee Certification Training
The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:
- Crew Training
- Fire Restoration
- Water Restoration
- Advanced Structural Drying
SERVPRO Document Restoration Services
6/14/2021 (Permalink)
Document Restoration Services
After any major disaster, restoring your business and mitigating losses is essential for returning your company to an operational state in a timely manner. In addition to clean-up and repairs, you should add document restoration to your list of recovery action items. Using a professional restoration service can help you protect and save many of your important documents, including:
- Books, journals and magazines
- Patient records and employee files
- Blueprints and maps
- Photographs, film and negatives
Professional document restoration services can save your business because they follow through procedures for preserving and protecting critical paperwork that is often irreplaceable. Insurance companies trust SERVPRO because of the following state-of-the-art offerings.
- Modern Technology
SERVPRO uses vacuum freeze-drying, a document drying technique that has been approved by the National Archives and Records Administration. They also use gamma irradiation technology to clean and sterilize items. This is particularly useful if your documents have been exposed to chemicals or bacteria during the incident.
- Security
Documents are handled by HIPAA-certified technicians, ensuring compliance with privacy requirements. Your documents are also kept under 24/7 surveillance.
- Digital Organization
Converting your files to digital files is a wise choice for protecting them against future incidents. In the event of a fire or flood, your contracts, files and paper materials will stay safely stored and out of harm’s way. Digital files are much easier to organize and access using a computerized inventory system, and they can free up storage space that used to house paper files.
In addition to the services above, a full-service restoration option is available to handle every step of the restoration, from drying and sanitizing to rejacketing and digitizing. This full-service option can save you time and money since the document drying is performed by SERVPRO and is not outsourced to a third party.
After disaster strikes, it is normal to feel overwhelmed about the cleanup process. However, being prepared and having a reliable document restoration service you can trust will save you time and ensure your business is protected.
We Love Online Reviews
4/30/2021 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton love our customers and appreciate your feedback. We strive hard to train our employees to meet the standards in our industry and to communicate clearly with our customers. If we have performed a job for you please take the time to leave us a review on Google, Facebook or Yelp. Many customers have complimented us on our response time and the quality of our work. Many of our employees have been named specifically on our customer satisfaction forms and we appreciate that.
Please consider leaving us an online review of our great work on Google at the link below. We're not perfect but we correct our mistakes and that's the only way to conduct business.
https://www.SERVPROmonroevilleevergreenbrewton.com/customer-reviews/reviews
If you need us again please call us at (251) 809-1260.
At SERVPRO, Customer Service is Our Top Priority
4/30/2021 (Permalink)
At SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton, we make it a priority to deliver excellent customer service. We know that the situations our customers face are often stressful and complicated. A fire in their home, a busted pipe which has caused water damage in their kitchen, mold in their office building; these are all difficult situations emotionally, which is all the more reason for our employees to be sensitive to what our customers are dealing with.
Depending on the situation, we could be there anywhere from days, weeks, or even months in the customer's home or office. Throughout this time, we build a trusting and reliable relationship with our customers. We take the time to get to know them on a more personal level and completely understand their needs. This allows them to feel more at ease throughout their entire restoration process.
If you need our services, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton at (251) 809-1260. We are ready to take on your job and provide excellent customer service throughout the process.
Call the Mold Remediation Professionals at SERVPRO
4/28/2021 (Permalink)
Growth under a bathroom sink.
Anytime you open your windows to let fresh air in, mold spores are blowing through your home. Turning on your air conditioner or heater may produce mold. Rainy days? They are great for watching movies, taking naps, and stirring up mold.
Take a moment and look all around you - everywhere you look, mold spores are present. Moisture provides mold with the perfect climate for growth, and by the time you see mold, it has typically been growing for a long time.
No matter what any business might advertise, you can’t ever fully get rid of mold. There’s a great deal of misinformation about the mold remediation process, and it’s imperative that you work with a company that is forthcoming about the process. At SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton, we will always be open and honest with you about what our capabilities are.
Call SERVPRO to Help
All it takes is one simple phone call for help to be on the way. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, we are here for you. We want to start your mold remediation process as soon as we can, and we respond to your call and dispatch crews quickly. Mold spreads so rapidly - the faster we get started, the easier and more affordable it is to contain.
Mold Damage Assessment
Peace of mind arrives within hours of calling SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton. We quickly dispatch a Project Manager who helps navigate you through the entire process. They work alongside the crew to locate the water source that is feeding the mold growth. Using advanced technology and equipment, we are able to locate damage even if it isn’t in plain sight.
Mold Containment
The entire mold remediation process must be handled strategically, so there isn’t additional mold spreading during cleanup. For everyone’s health and safety, our highly trained team uses advanced containment equipment and procedures. Negative air chambers help us isolate the area, and negative air pressure can prevent further spreading during cleanup. It’s crucial that we successfully isolate and contain the area before moving forward.
Air Filtration
It takes professional-grade air purifiers and HEPA vacuums to help trap the mold particles. Powerful air scrubbers and filters are used to help filter out the mold spores during the remediation process. At SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton, we work hard to make sure that we stop the spreading.
Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
Every home and every situation is unique, which is why there are so many different variables involved in the mold remediation process. Mold can be found anywhere from your carpet to your ceiling. While some areas of mold can be eliminated with antifungal or antimicrobial treatments, other areas and items might require full removal. If you have carpet or drywall that needs to be disposed of, we make sure to handle it safely.
Cleaning Contents and Belongings
If mold has spread to furniture or other personal items, we have multiple ways to help restore them. We understand that you might have sentimental items that have been compromised, and we do everything we can to restore those items. Throughout the entire process, your Project Manager works closely with you to make sure that everything is handled with care. Our high-tech equipment cannot just clean and sanitize, but it can also deodorize.
Restoration
It can feel so nice once you are in the final homestretch of the project. The Project Manager assigned to you goes through the area with the team to make sure that your home is all ready to be repaired. Some homes may require some hefty rebuilding of areas, while others may require some fresh drywall or new flooring. No matter what needs to be done, we have experienced workers to make sure it gets done right.
During mold remediation, stress is inevitable, and we understand that this has affected you in multiple ways. We don’t just care about the mold in your home - we care about you. That’s why we assign you a Project Manager who is your one-stop contact and who walks you through the entire process. They are familiar with the insurance process and can provide you with any documentation your insurance company may need.
There is no one-size-fits-all process for mold remediation because there are so many ways and areas that mold can make its appearance in your home. Until we assess the magnitude of the situation, it’s hard to say what your home needs. One thing we can be sure about is that we have the skills and equipment to handle whatever remediation your home may need.
Protect your health and your home - call SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton at the first signs of mold in your home.
Traits of a Quality Restoration Company
4/28/2021 (Permalink)
What to Look for in a Restoration Company
When looking for a restoration company, there are a number of features you may want to look at including the ability to be faster to any size disaster. Choosing the right company for your property's restoration needs can make a difference. Here are some things you may want to consider.
- The Ability to Deal With Multiple Damage Types
Many professional restoration services like SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton offer the ability to work with multiple damage types. This is often because one type of damage can lead to another. For example, fire put out by water can also result in mold if the water is left to stand too long. Most restoration companies can help fix smoke and fire damage, water damage, storm damage and also offer mold remediation for this exact reason.
- A Quick Response Time
Being faster to any size disaster also means arriving with the right materials and equipment required to do the job. Locally owned franchises such as SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton have locations across the country allowing them to be where they need to be when disaster strikes. Because they are a franchise, they also have access to corporate equipment and materials, which gives them the ability to handle large-scale jobs as well.
- They Offer a Variety of Services
A restoration company such as SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton also offers a variety of services designed to help your agent process the insurance claim. These include an electronics inventory service as well as an online database that provides access to information such as photographs and progress reports for the damaged areas, estimates, filed paperwork, and many other details needed for a properly filed claim.
Whether you're choosing a restoration company because they have the ability to be faster to any size disaster, or they can deal with multiple damage types, you may also want to look at the other services they provide. SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton can help you clean contents as well as structure.
GIVE us a call today at (251) 809-1260!
Let the Professionals at SERVPRO Handle the Cleaning
4/27/2021 (Permalink)
We receive this question many times from concerned callers: "Can I just spray bleach on it?"
Using bleach to take care of mold was once recommended by agencies such as OSHA and the EPA. However, they have since been revised after research revealed that the "do-all, be-all cure" for killing microbial growth, actually had the opposite effect. First, let us take a look at how mold forms to understand why using bleach is not effective.
Mold needs water, food and typically a warm temperature to grow. This illustrates the first reason to call SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton: If mold is growing, chances are that the materials are wet. There has likely been a water loss of some sort, and until it is properly dried, mold will continue to grow.
The chlorine in bleach, due to its ionic composition, cannot penetrate porous surfaces. Porous surfaces include materials such as drywall, ceilings, wood, carpet and many others. Spraying bleach on the mold will only kill it on the surface. Many people do not know that mold actually has roots called hyphae. These roots will still remain in the porous material and eventually rise to the surface again. Remember that bleach contains both chlorine and water. The chlorine cannot make it below the surface - but the water can. Thus, you are actually replenishing the mold with one of the key things it needs to grow - water! Secondly, it will "bleach" the color, making it appear that the mold is gone. Again, this is only on the surface.
At SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton we use specialized products, designed to travel deep into porous surfaces to remove mold at its roots. Sometimes we cannot remove the mold from the material and the material must be completely removed from the home for the safety of you and your family. Our technicians are trained to differentiate between what can be safely cleaned and what cannot. In addition, live mold releases spores into the air. The air in your home may need to be treated with specialty equipment to make sure that all spores are removed.
Call SERVPRO for Immediate Service
4/26/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (251) 809-1260
Residential Services
Whether your home needs emergency services or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.
Give SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton a call today at (251) 809-1260 for all your residential and commercial restoration needs!
The SERVPRO Advantage
4/14/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is not just a local brand, but a national one.
Since its founding in 1967 SERVPRO has expanded to over 1,700 locations across the United States and Canada. Since then SERVPRO has also greatly expanded the array of services we offer. Since those services range from carpet cleaning and deodorization to large scale disaster recovery and with SERVPRO’s 1,700+ locations our collective knowledge and experience are one of the greatest assets SERVPRO has and we know how to use it. SERVPRO locations provide all kinds of support to each other ranging from equipment to people-power and technical advice. Sometimes we might run into an issue that we have not encountered before or possibly elements to a job that prevents our normal methods for jobs. This is when we have been able to rely on the knowledge base which our corporate office and other SERVPRO’s have accumulated. It does not matter what emergency you are facing. From Water Mitigation, Fire Restoration, or Mold Remediation. SERVPRO has the team and backing to handle it all. We are known for taking care of big problems and disasters, but we also are adept at helping people with issues you normally may not know the solution too. If you have an emergency which makes you think “I don’t even know who does this”, try giving us a call at (251) 809-1260!
Why Realtors Should Use SERVPRO
4/14/2020 (Permalink)
Currently, we are in a time where the real estate market is hot. Houses are selling faster than they can be listed. We are seeing interest rates drop to an all-time low and what a better time to have an edge with a reputation for having quality listings whether it be a commercial or a residential listing.
SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton understands that you want to move a sale through quickly to get your commission. How your listing looks is everything to a potential buyer and we can assist in making that happen. It doesn’t matter what shape or situation your listing is in, the SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton team can assist you in many different ways to make this sale quick and the most profitable for you! Our team can assist you in inspecting a crawl space/attic area for mold, water, or biohazard damage and fix this damage efficiently. Our team can even assist in estate sales in the case of hoarder cleanouts with optional inventory itemization and cleaning services. A SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton professional would be happy to attend your next sales meeting to discuss how to recognize the potential for mold and what to do in case of a fire or water emergency.
Give us a call at (251) 809-1260!
SERVPRO Offers Continuing Education Courses
4/14/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton offers Continuing Education courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters and Real Estate professionals. The Continuing Education courses provide you with information to better service your customers.
These programs are designed to improve the knowledge of your staff regarding emergency mitigation.
Here are some of the CE courses that are offered by SERVPRO:
- Property Fire Damage Restoration
- Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
- Restoring Contaminated Buildings
- Restorative Drying for Water Damage
- Cleaning and Restoring Smoke-Damaged Contents
- Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar
- Deodorization of Malodors
- Biohazard Cleanup
- Ethics
Lee Knowles, Owner of SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton, is an approved instructor of these courses. Contact SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton at (251) 809-1260 to schedule one for your office.
This is just one more way SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton is Here to Help!
Call SERVPRO for All Your Residential & Commercial Needs
4/14/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Escambia, Conecuh, Monroe, Clarke, and Washington Counties. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (251) 809-1260!
Residential Services
Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.
SERVPRO Can Help Save A Claim
4/14/2020 (Permalink)
One of things that make SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton so unique is how we work with our agents and customers to identify whether a claim should be filed.
SERVPRO has learned that insurance companies do not look favorable on zero paid claims. The insurance companies have found that people who turn in small claims are in effect using their policies as a home maintenance program.
We tell our agents to call us so we can put eyes on the situation. We can tell within a few minutes whether the claim will meet or exceed the customers deductible. This in turn helps the customer avoid higher rates, and the agent avoids a loss that in the long run could affect retention.
SERVPRO was recently asked by an agent to look at a customer‘s basement that had a sump pump malfunction. After reviewing the loss, the damage would not have met the insured's $2500 deductible. This insured avoided a claim and had SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton do the water mitigation. Both parties were happy and we have a very satisfied agent and customer.
Don't Wait for an Adjuster After a Residential Flood
4/14/2020 (Permalink)
No one wants to go through a home flood. Still, flood damage in the Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton area, is more common than you might think. As you probably know, the hours following such an event are critical. If you wait for an adjuster from your flood insurance company before taking action, you may inadvertently allow more damage to occur. Here are three important reasons you should not waste time following a flood.
- Water Gets Everywhere
Because it is a liquid, water can seep into parts of your home you may not think about. Even worse, sealed portions of your basement, crawl space and walls often prevent air from naturally drying moisture. If you wait for your adjuster to arrive before beginning water remediation or damage repair, the processes may be both more expensive and more invasive.
- Mold Grows Fast
Part of the reason for having comprehensive flood insurance is to cover the cost of repairing mold damage. Like water, mold can grow in hidden parts of your home. Remediation experts have the knowledge, skill, experience and tools to quickly locate and address mold and mildew. Rather than waiting for an adjuster to inspect your home, working with a reputable service in the days following a flood is often your best bet to restore your home’s comfort, appearance and value.
- Adjusters Are Busy
If broken pipes or backed-up plumbing caused your flood, your adjuster may respond quickly. On the other hand, if your home was part of widespread flooding, the insurance company’s representative may have a full schedule. In fact, you may wait weeks before your adjuster arrives. Remember, acting quickly is important, and waiting may cause more damage.
As a diligent homeowner, you carry flood insurance. You also likely have a duty to mitigate damage caused by rising waters. Rather than waiting until your insurance adjuster can inspect your home, begin the remediation and restoration process as soon as you can. Give us a call at (251) 809-1260!
What Should Be Expected When You Contact SERVPRO?
3/2/2020 (Permalink)
What should be expected when you contact us?
First and foremost, expect our 24-hour availability! Whether you are calling day or night, weekday or weekends, and even during the holidays, you can always expect to speak with a real person about the emergency you are experiencing. SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton is the top choice for many insurance agencies in the Conecuh, Monroe, Escambia, Clarke, and Washington County areas.
Here is what you can expect during the first several hours after contacting SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton:
Quick Response - When a building has been damaged, the response time is an important factor in how time-consuming and how costly restoration will be. SERVPRO is always open, so you can expect to hear back within an hour after you have contacted them about the emergency. Once you have provided them with the necessary information, we will begin preparing to address the needs of your client.
Arrive Time - Our technicians can be on-site to begin the restoration process within four hours. This fast response can make the difference if your home or commercial business has suffered a great deal of damage. Beginning the process more quickly will result in less damage overall which can end up costing the insurance agency less money.
Inspection/Verbal Briefing - Once the damage restoration specialists have arrived, they can inspect the home to determine the extent of the damage and decide on the best course of action moving forward. Our team has the ability to let you know if the emergency is claim worthy or not as well. They will provide a verbal briefing so that you are aware of what will happen next. Our team's quick 24-hour response will allow us to begin mitigation as soon as possible to prevent any further damage before we begin work on necessary repairs.
Getting Rid of Unpleasant Odors in Your Home
3/2/2020 (Permalink)
Don’t live a life full of unpleasant smells
Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition or mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn’t necessarily get rid of these smells. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by smoke, mold or other sources. Our professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more. Along with our proprietary line of cleaning products SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton uses various techniques and equipment to treat odors. These techniques are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.
Some of the tools we use include: Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke and more without the use of chemicals. Though the room being treated cannot be occupied while in use, the generator works quickly to clean, sanitize and remove offensive odors.
Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main benefit is that the room being treated can be occupied during the deodorization process; though it does work slower. The Hydroxyl Generator can be used to treat fire and smoke, as well as biohazard jobs, water damage, crime scene situations, and animal odors.
Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. This helps clean the air and remove odors.
Whether you are a building manager who needs an apartment cleaned for the next tenant or homeowner who wants to get your home ready for sale, getting rid of offensive odors is a high priority. Fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (251) 809-1260.
Our Experienced Team Can Help You
3/2/2020 (Permalink)
The water loss remediation industry continuously devises new equipment that takes a Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton property from soaked and deteriorating to dry and clean faster and more efficiently. As amazing as innovative tools are, it takes a crew of seasoned and highly-qualified technicians to use them to the best effect. Professional water remediation companies deliver their best outcomes when the workers pledge to train and recertify on a regular basis.
When you face water damage in your home, you benefit from cutting-edge equipment and crews who know how to operate them according to industry standards. Even diehard do-it-yourselfers recognize that managing water incursions is a tricky business, requiring not only hard work but also a solid understanding of the science behind water removal and structural drying.
Developing professional expertise to mitigate water damage is why SERVPRO sends our crew members to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) classes. The IICRC is a standard developing and establishing organization worldwide. Skills taught to the employees we sent to remediate and restore your home base their effectiveness on research.
An example of a task that might seem straightforward enough to be within the grasp of every homeowner is carpet water extraction. The equipment resembles a shop vac, and a homeowner typically feels comfortable operating a vacuum. Why SERVPRO requires crew members to complete a comprehensive IICRC course in carpet cleaning relates to the problems that can occur if standards are unknown or ignored.
The art and science of extracting water from carpeting or other floor coverings are not intuitive. An effective way to pull moisture out of a carpet is with a weighted wand extractor. SERVPRO IICRC-trained technicians learned and practiced the techniques that extract moisture without putting stress on the textile floor covering. Inexperienced individuals can stretch the carpet fabric by exerting too much pressure or moving too quickly across a surface. Inappropriate force might cause delamination of the carpet backing from the carpet face.
SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton delivers high-quality water mitigation results by arranging for professional training of all our technicians. Schedule an appointment with our top-notch workforce by calling 251-809-1260.
Want Quick Action from Your Insurance Company? Call the Right Cleanup Team
3/2/2020 (Permalink)
Like anyone in the Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton area, you dread the thought of water damage or a flood infiltrating your business. If you need immediate help following incidents such as these, you should have two groups on your mind: your insurance agency and a restoration company. Both of these essential helpers will help get your business back on track.
Your First Responsibilities
Large thunderstorms, hurricanes, or problems with sewage or plumbing can bring large amounts of water into your office. This flood damage can pose serious health risks and may damage your building and important materials. Make sure do the following without delay:
- Safely exit your building.
- Stay away from any black water.
- Call a disaster relief company.
- Get in touch with your insurance provider.
What the Restoration Team Will Do
Qualified, experienced storm restoration professionals have the skill and equipment to remove all the water from your office and to get your facility back to pre-flood condition. The technicians will inspect the affected area and will then determine what they can salvage and what they must restore or completely replace. The team will extract all the water and dry your floors, walls and furniture. They’ll also clean and sanitize all parts of your office.
What Role Does the Insurance Play
You need to provide your insurance company with detailed information about the incident so it knows how to proceed. Your agent will review your policy and discuss with you what it will cover and what, if anything, storm restoration and cleanup costs it will not cover.
How They Work Together
Sometimes, an insurance company will delay claim processing or payment because the storm response team is slow to do its part. A top professional company such as SERVPRO will get on the case quickly to help move the insurance process along.
You need a quick, successful storm restoration response. With SERVPRO and your insurance company working in tandem, you should be in good shape.
Why You Should Always Choose SERVPRO for Carpet Cleaning
3/2/2020 (Permalink)
The following tips for finding a reputable company to help you with your carpet cleaning needs were found on IICRC.org, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification website. SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton has many highly trained professionals that can assist you. Give us a call today!
“Cleaning Carpet Can Be a Dirty Business” “Not All Scum Is In the Carpet” “Don’t Let them Pull The Rug Out From Under You” “Clean Your Carpets Without Cleaning Out Your Wallet” “Don’t Get Taken To The Cleaners.” These clever phrases have appeared recently in newspaper articles and televised news programs across the nation warning consumers about carpet cleaning scam operations. The media has related horror stories of trusting consumers who have responded to low-price carpet cleaning specials only to become victims of unethical cleaners who refuse to honor the advertised price, intimidate the consumers and do poor quality work.
Bait-and-switch operators are prevalent in many industries, and the carpet cleaning industry is no exception. This does not mean that all carpet cleaners are rip-off artists. How do you know who is and who is not? The professional carpet cleaning industry has cited these scam activities as a major industry concern and is taking action to help eliminate unprofessional workmanship and unethical tactics. One of the leaders in this campaign is the IICRC, an international, non-profit organization that certifies cleaners who meet prescribed levels of technical proficiency and pledge to operate by a Code of Ethics.
To help educate consumers so they will not become victims of fraudulent practices within the cleaning industry, the IICRC has released a list of guidelines to consider when selecting a carpet cleaner.
- Price – If an advertised price sounds too good to be true – it is! Often carpet cleaners advertise a low price just to get their foot in the door. Use common sense; a low price usually equates to low quality for any product or service. Legitimate business people have expenses they must cover, including license, taxes, insurance, employee wages, and benefits, and quality tools of the trade. A professional carpet cleaner who must cover all of these business expenses and make a profit to stay in the business cannot afford to drive to your house for $5.95, much less clean a room of carpet when there.
- Quality – Never should the price of cleaning services be the sole criterion for selecting a carpet cleaner. A price that sounds high may not be a signal of a rip-off. In all professions, quality work deserves a quality price.
- Truth in Advertising – Read the fine print in advertised specials to find out exactly what the price includes, and request a firm price in writing before the work begins.
- Training – Professional cleaning firms require management and employees to engage in formal training in a variety of cleaning disciplines, and these educational efforts will be ongoing. Consumers should ask about the formal training background of technicians who will be cleaning their carpet.
- Certification – Professional firms require technicians who have certification from organizations like the IICRC or through comparable franchise or independent training and testing organizations.
- Experience – The years of experience a firm has, combined with formal training programs, contribute significantly to the experience and proficiency of its employees.
- Knowledgeable – Professional firms employ and train technicians who have the ability to answer basic questions regarding carpet performance and maintenance, as well as spotting and cleaning.
- References – Consumers should ask for references from previous customers, and they should consult friends and business acquaintances about the reputation of the cleaning firm they are considering. Do not hesitate to call the Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau.
- Trade Associations – Professional cleaning firms are members of regional or national trade associations or other organizations that promote high ethical standards and continuing education. Look for trade association logos in advertising.
- Credibility – Community involvement through the Chamber of Commerce and/or professional business, charitable or similar organizations will be undertaken by concerned, caring professionals. Look for logos indicating involvement in these organizations.
- Method – Ask the cleaner which method of cleaning will be used and the advantages and disadvantages of this method compared to other methods.
- Proof – Never hesitate to ask for proof. Ask to see the cleaner’s certification card, business license and insurance certificate.
- No Pressure – Technicians must be courteous and willing to take the time to thoroughly explain the cleaning and to answer all questions. The consumer should never feel pressured.
There is no single criterion for selecting a carpet cleaning service. Several combined factors must be considered in the selection decision.
If you have any questions about carpet cleaning, call SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton at (251) 809-1260.
Why You Should Choose SERVPRO for Upholstery Cleaning
3/2/2020 (Permalink)
Professional upholstery cleaning services are much more effective than do-it-yourself options or treatment performed by untrained personnel. That’s because certified professionals know how to use the latest equipment and practices to great effect, removing even the most stubborn soils deeply embedded in the fabric. Homeowners often ignore the need for furniture cleaning, but if it is not performed regularly, families may have to get rid of their favorite sofa or chair long before it is necessary.
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) teaches technicians the best way to approach upholstery cleaning services in any setting. They know how to identify and clean every type of fabric, including delicate fabrics like silk and leather.
In general, the process is the same no matter what kind of furniture the technician is working with, though it still requires a great deal of precision and effort. The fabric is first vacuumed to get rid of all dry, loose soils. This ensures they are not matted during water application. Pretreatment sprays are then applied and help break down stubborn soils like body oil and liquid stains. The technician will then apply a combination of water and cleaning agents, either by scrubbing or with a special wand tool. The furniture is rinsed lightly and excess water is extracted before the fabric is allowed to dry.
This form of treatment reaches all layers of the fabric and can greatly extend the furniture’s life. For that reason, it should be considered an investment in the furniture. SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton is proud to have fully trained technicians on staff to help you with your upholstery cleaning needs. Feel free to give us a call at (251) 809-1260 for a quote today!
Call Us For Immediate Services!
7/9/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in your town. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 - 251-809-1260
Residential Services
Whether your home needs emergency flood restoration or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.
- Commercial Water Damage Restoration
- Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
Preparing for Vacation
6/28/2019 (Permalink)
With summer here almost everyone will be taking a vacation while the kids are out for school. So here at SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton we have done some research to help you better prepare your home for the period of time you will be gone.
Make your house look lived-in
An empty house is like an open invitation to burglars. To keep your house looking occupied:
- Stop the newspaper and mail – or ask a trusted neighbor to pick them up
- Park your car inside the garage, if you have one
- Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway occasionally so there’s activity at your house
- Put at least one light in your house on a timer
- Install a motion-activated sensor on an outdoor floodlight. (Burglars hate outdoor lighting – and that’s why we love it)
- Make sure your lawn stays trimmed
Take the necessary plumbing and electrical precautions
Running appliances while you’re away is not only a needless expense, it could also lead to costly problems. To avoid the possibility of an appliance breakdown while you're away:
- Unplug small appliances and electronic devices
- Put the water heater in “vacation” mode
- Turn off water valves to the dishwasher, washing machine and all sinks
- Set your thermostat to a temperature closer to outside temps (warmer in the summer, cooler in the winter) but which still protects your plants, pets and furniture
General home preparation
Other things to consider doing before your vacation:
- Notify your credit card company and home security company that you’ll be out of town
- Make sure your smoke detectors are working properly
- Leave your emergency contact information with a neighbor
- Dispose of any food that could go bad before you return from vacation
- Take out the kitchen trash – especially anything that might start to stink
- Run your garbage disposal with a half-cup of vinegar and some water
Following this home preparation checklist before you leave for your vacation could save you a headache later. But don’t forget that the unexpected can follow you on your vacation – which is why the right travel insurance policy is crucial to stay protected.
How to Handle Grease Fires
6/12/2019 (Permalink)
A grease fire happens when your cooking oil becomes too hot. When heating, oils first start to boil, then they’ll start smoking, and then they’ll catch on fire. Most vegetable oils have a smoking point around 450°F, while animal fats like lard or goose fat will start smoking around 375°F.
The very best safety is prevention. Whenever you’re heating oil for pan-frying or deep-fat frying, stay in the kitchen. Use a heavy pot with a lid and clip a thermometer to the side so you know the temperature of the oil.
Keep an eye on the oil as it’s heating. If you see wisps of smoke or smell something acrid, immediately turn down the heat or remove the pot from the burner completely. The oil won’t immediately catch fire once it starts smoking, but smoke is a danger sign that it’s well on its way to getting there.
If the worst happens and your oil does catch on fire, do the following:
• Turn the Heat Off – Don’t try to move the pot. You might accidentally splash yourself or your kitchen with burning oil. And that would be bad.
• Cover the Pot with a Metal Lid – Fire cannot exist in the absence of oxygen. With the lid on (and the heat off), the fire should quickly consume all the oxygen and put itself out. Use a metal lid since glass will shatter.
• Pour on Baking Soda – Baking soda will extinguish grease fires, but only if they’re small. It takes a lot of baking soda to do the job.
• Spray the Pot with a Class B Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher – This is your last resort, as fire extinguishers will contaminate your kitchen. Still, it’s better than the alternative if the fire is getting out of control.
• Get Out and Call 911 – If the fire does break out of control, don’t try to be a hero. Get out and find a phone to call 911.
Whatever you do, DO NOT do the following:
• Do Not Use Water – Pouring water can cause the oil to splash and spread the fire. The vaporizing water can also carry grease particles in it, also spreading the fire.
• Do Not Move the Pot or Carry It Outside – Throwing the pot outside might seem logical in the frenzy of the moment. But trying to move the pot might splash burning oil on you, your home, and anything outside.
• Do Not Throw Any Other Baking Product On the Fire – Flour might look like baking soda, but it won’t react the same. Only baking soda can help put out a grease fire.
Phew, now that we’re clear on all of that, hopefully you’ll never be in a situation where you have to actually use this advice. Be safe, fellow cooks!
For more information check out this article!
https://www.thekitchn.com/kitchen-safety-how-to-put-out-138233
Here to Help
6/10/2019 (Permalink)
If you have ever had a weather-related emergency, such as a flood, pipe burst, septic tank overflow you may have experienced the frustration of calling for help only to find you would be put on a list to be worked in. If you have never experienced this then consider yourself lucky. If you ever do have an emergency, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
- Everyone you reach out to, whether it's a plumber or us here at SERVPRO, we want to help you and as quickly as possible.
- When an area is affected, whether by a microburst, hurricane or deep freeze, the damage is common. In other words, if your pipes freeze when the temperature drops from 40 to 7 over a 24 hour period, the same thing is happening to your neighbors.
- Immediate response resources in an area are always limited. Your plumber of 15 years cannot hire additional crews overnight, as much as he would like to.
So when this occurs, it's nice to know that there is always someone there to help.
At SERVPRO of Monroeville/Evergreen/Brewton, our first question is always: Is the source fixed or do you need help fixing the source? No job is to big or small for our crew of certified and highly trained professionals. When it comes to your property, home, or business you can depend on SERVPRO to get the job done and done right! We have the resources for all trades and labor and can properly and efficiently handle any job no matter the size!
A brand you can trust, a company you can depend on! We are available 24/7/365 because your emergency will not wait until Monday morning.
Avoiding Water Damage for HVAC Unit
6/10/2019 (Permalink)
Water damage resulting from an air conditioning condensation line leaks is more common than you might think. Condensation line leaks can be very devastating as they usually go unnoticed, mostly because they are inside walls and located in low traffic areas.
The high humidity and dark space around those lines can also make them prone to mold growth. As the mold grows, it gets distributed through the HVAC system to the rest of the home.
So how do you prevent A/C condensation line leaks? The most important thing you can do is inspect it regularly, as even a slight sign of condensation is a sign you may have a problem. Here are a four tips on maintaining your A/C condensation line:
1. Inspect it regularly - Every time you change your HVAC air filter, which should be about every 30 days on average, you should visually inspect the AC condensation line for moisture.
2. Ensure proper AC condensation line pitch and reduce elbow connection angles - Having your AC condensation line run straight as possible is ideal, and a drop of 1/8-inch for every 12 inches of length is the minimum pitch. Remove any elbow connections with 90-degree angles and replace them with 45- degree elbow connections when possible.
3. Check the AC condensation line opening and exit - When your AC unit is running, check the condensation line opening to make sure you see water flowing to the drain. The amount of water you see will depend on the humidity level in the house.
4. Clean the line every 3 to 6 months
One easy way to clean an A/C line is by using a nylon string and a small piece of cotton rag. Use a shop vacuum to suck out the nylon string on the exit side, then tie the small piece of cotton rag to the other end and just pull through. This will bring all of the debris in the line out the exit side. Do not make the rag piece too large or it will get stuck in the line with no way out. It should be small enough to fit loosely in the pipe.
Finally, if you have no room to create the minimum pitch, you may have to use a condensation pump to help move the water out. Consult your HVAC serviceman for installation and make sure you have an emergency cut-off if it fails.
For more information check out this link!
https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-avoid-water-damage-hvac-condensation-line-leaks.htm
Evacuation Plans
6/10/2019 (Permalink)
Plan to Evacuate
A wide variety of emergencies may cause an evacuation. In some instances you may have a day or two to prepare, while other situations might call for an immediate evacuation. Planning ahead is vital to ensuring that you can evacuate quickly and safely, no matter what the circumstances.
Before an Evacuation
- Learn the types of disasters that are likely in your community and the local emergency, evacuation, and shelter plans for each specific disaster.
- Plan how you will leave and where you will go if you are advised to evacuate.
- Identify several places you could go in an emergency such as a friend’s home in another town or a motel. Choose destinations in different directions so that you have options during an emergency.
- If needed, identify a place to stay that will accept pets. Most public shelters allow only service animals.
- Be familiar with alternate routes and other means of transportation out of your area.
- Always follow the instructions of local officials and remember that your evacuation route may be on foot depending on the type of disaster.
- Develop a family/household communication and re-unification plan so that you can maintain contact and take the best actions for each of you and re-unite if you are separated.
- Assemble supplies that are ready for evacuation, both a “go-bag” you can carry when you evacuate on foot or public transportation and supplies for traveling by longer distances if you have a personal vehicle.
- If you have a car:
- Keep a full tank of gas in it if an evacuation seems likely. Keep a half tank of gas in it at all times in case of an unexpected need to evacuate. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
- Make sure you have a portable emergency kit in the car.
- If you do not have a car, plan how you will leave if needed. Make arrangements with family, friends or your local government.
During an Evacuation
- A list of open shelters can be found during an active disaster in your local area by downloading the FEMA app
- Listen to a battery-powered radio and follow local evacuation instructions.
- Take your emergency supply kit.
- Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather.
- Take your pets with you, but understand that only service animals may be permitted in public shelters. Plan how you will care for your pets in an emergency now.
- If time allows:
- Call or email the out-of-state contact in your family communications plan. Tell them where you are going.
- Secure your home by closing and locking doors and windows.
- Unplug electrical equipment such as radios, televisions and small appliances. Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding. If there is damage to your home and you are instructed to do so, shut off water, gas and electricity before leaving.
- Leave a note telling others when you left and where you are going.
- Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides some protection such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts and a hat.
- Check with neighbors who may need a ride.
- Follow recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts; they may be blocked.
- Be alert for road hazards such as washed-out roads or bridges and downed power lines. Do not drive into flooded areas.
After an Evacuation
If you evacuated for the storm, check with local officials both where you’re staying and back home before you travel.
Residents returning to disaster-affected areas after significant events should expect and prepare for disruptions to daily activities, and remember that returning home before storm debris is cleared is dangerous.
Let friends and family know before you leave and when you arrive.
Charge devices and consider getting back-up batteries in case power-outages continue.
Fill up your gas tank and consider downloading a fuel app to check for outages along your route.
Bring supplies such as water and non-perishable food for the car ride.
Avoid downed power or utility lines; they may be live with deadly voltage.
Stay away and report them immediately to your power or utility company.
Only use generators away from your home and NEVER run a generator inside a home or garage, or connect it to your home's electrical system.
For more information on when, where, or why to evacuate take a look at this link!
https://www.ready.gov/hurricane-toolkit
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