How to find your main water shutoff valve

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Shut off the water main to ensure no water damage occurs in your home.

If you're like most homeowners, you've probably wondered how to turn off your water line. You may have even considered calling a plumber to find out where it's located and if they can help you shut it off temporarily while working on some project that requires shutting off the water supply. Before doing this however, there are several steps to take which can save time and money without having to call an expensive professional!

Check your water meter.

When you notice a leak, check the water meter to see if it's running. This will help you determine where the leak is coming from and how much water is being wasted.

If you want to know how much money your family is spending on water each month, check the meter every couple weeks. That way, when someone uses too much hot water or leaves an appliance turned on too long in a room that doesn't need it. Look for a main shut-off valve.

Look for a main shut-off valve. The main water shut-off valve is usually located near the street, so if you're having trouble finding it, look around your house for any pipes that may lead to it. If there are none, check with neighbors or ask them if they have ever seen one nearby. If all else fails, look at your water meter, it should be located on an exterior wall in plain sight and can usually be identified by its large size.

If there's no main shut off valve or meter available and this isn't something you're comfortable doing yourself (you might want to call an expert), then try looking for an underground pipe coming out of the ground nearby--this could indicate where a buried pipe runs under your property to deliver water from city services into houses like yours!

Check the water meter if you don't see a main shutoff valve.

If you don't see a main shutoff valve, check the water meter. It will be on the outside of your home and has two numbers: one that shows how much water has been used over time, and another for how much is currently being used. If you see that number rising quickly or not moving at all, turn off all faucets and toilets in your house (except for one bathroom sink that can be left running). Then call a plumber immediately!

Follow Utilities

Find the water meter by following your utility lines in back of your home and look for any small boxes on the side of the house. If you don't see a main shutoff valve, look for a water meter instead.

If you're lucky enough to have one installed in your yard (this is most common with older homes), then this should make things easy! The main shutoff valve will usually be located near where all of the plumbing lines come together before entering into your home's foundation or basement wall. It may be labeled as "Meter," "Water Main" or something similar.

Once you locate the meter, it's likely that there will be a pipe coming out of it that goes up to the street or sidewalk. After this pipe comes from the meter, there should be an elbow fitting that is attached to another pipe in front of your house leading up to the foundation wall or basement floor. It may be possible to find a valve that regulates flow into one of these pipes inside your home. This can include a valve under a kitchen sink in some cases or on a side wall of your basement or crawlspace in others.

When you need to replace a water line, it's important to know where your main shutoff valve is. The main shutoff valve is the one that controls all of your home's water supply. If you don't know where this valve is located and how to turn it off, then you could end up with some pretty expensive damage if something goes wrong during installation or repair work.

Finding where to turn off your water line when you need to replace it can save you time and money. Give SERVPRO of Anaheim West a call for your water damage emergency. Our technicians are available 24/7.

Things to consider before installing a Fire Sprinkler System

2/9/2023 (Permalink)

Consider a water sprinkler system to protect your home or business incase of a fire.

Fire sprinkler systems are an effective way to prevent fire damage, but there are some things to know before installing them. The fire sprinkler system can decrease the damage from a fire and help protect your home or business from fire damage. It is important to know even though it might save your property from fire damage, you could potentially have water damage as a result of system use.

Fire sprinkler systems are effective

Fire sprinkler systems can help prevent fire damage. A fire sprinkler system is composed of a series of pipes and valves that connect together in a network throughout a building. When the temperature inside reaches a certain level, water is released from these pipes throughout your property.

In addition to their ability to stop flames from spreading too far beyond their starting point, these systems also have other advantages such as increasing safety for people who may be inside the structure if a fire was to break out.

The fire sprinkler system can decrease the damage from a fire

Generally speaking, a fire sprinkler system can do exactly what it says, it can slow or stop a fire from spreading and reduce the damage caused by the flames. When you have a fire sprinkler system installed in your home or workplace, there's one thing that you can be sure of, if there is a fire or smoke the sprinklers will go off.

You will need a lot of space in your attic for the pipes

When installing a fire sprinkler system in your business, you will need to have pipes located in the attic. The pipes will be connected to a water source and also connect to the fire sprinkler system. A valve may also be installed in order for you or someone else to shut off the water flow if there is an issue with your piping or plumbing system.

Deciding whether or not a fire 

Deciding whether or not a fire sprinkler system will work for you is an important step in preparing for any future emergencies you may encounter. There are several factors that need to be considered when deciding on the type of system that's best for your home.

• The size of your home - You'll need to know how large your home is in order to determine whether or not it's necessary for you to install a sprinkler system, which can be costly and time consuming.
• Location of water supply - The location of your water supply will determine how far away from the sprinkler heads the pipes would have to go in order for them to reach all areas of the house where there might be a fire emergency.

If you’re still unsure about whether or not installing a fire sprinkler system is right for your home or business, consider contacting an expert who can help guide you through the process! This system could help save your home or business from a fire.

Roof Leaks Can Cause Mold

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

A small leak can cause damage inside your Anaheim, CA home.

Roof Leaks Can Cause Mold

The best way to keep your Anaheim, CA home safe from water damage is by preventing leaks before they happen. If you’re in need of a new roof or have a leak that needs to be addressed, give us a call!

Mold can Grow From Water Leaks

Mold can be a problem for any homeowner. If you let water enter your home, mold may grow on the surfaces it lands on. Mold growth can cause damage to the structure of your home and make it difficult for you and your family to live. But if you fix roof leaks, you'll prevent this from happening in the first place!

The cost of repairing water damage is expensive, but fixing a leaky roof is one of the best ways to avoid having to deal with these problems later down the road.

Can you Prevent Mold From Growing?

Mold can be prevented by keeping the area dry, cleaning up water that leaks in, ventilating the area, and removing any mold that is growing.

If you Have a Leaking Roof Call Someone Right Away

If you have a leaking roof, don’t wait to get it fixed. Your home is already at risk for mold growth, so don’t add to that risk by letting the leak go unaddressed for weeks or months on end. If your roof has started leaking, call a roofing contractor right away and get the issue taken care of as soon as possible.

In addition to calling someone right away if your roof starts leaking, make sure that you keep up with regular maintenance of your roofing system. This includes checking for leaks regularly—especially after heavy rainfalls—and replacing damaged shingles or tiles when necessary. Also check with local building codes regarding inspections of roofs; some areas require these inspections every few years while others may only require them every 10 years or more seldomly (depending upon where you live).

Water Damage can Cause Even More Damage

When you have a roof leak, the most obvious effect is water damage. Water can seep into your walls and through your ceiling, causing mold growth and wood rot. It can also cause electrical problems in some cases.

Mold is a common problem in homes, and most mold growth is caused by water damage. But if you have a roof leak, it could mean more than just the regular concerns of mold growth. In some cases, that leak can lead to structural damage or even become a fire hazard!

When water damage occurs and the wood beneath your home begins to rot from moisture exposure, it's called "dry rot." If this happens in an area where there's already mold growth (because of leaking pipes or another source), then you're likely going to have some serious problems on your hands. If left untreated for too long, dry rot can cause significant structural issues with your home—not only because of the rotting wood but also because it'll get into other areas like insulation or electrical wiring that doesn't need any additional damage done to them.

Address Leaks as Early as Possible

If you find a roof leak, it's important to fix it as soon as possible. If you don't, the leak will get worse and cause more damage. For example, if your attic floor is wet because of a leaky roof, mold will grow on that wet surface. 

Mold can also grow in walls that are next to the damp part of a ceiling or wall where water has been leaking through cracks in the plaster or drywall over time. 

Call the Professionals 

If you've noticed any of the signs listed above, it's important to take action quickly. Although there are DIY ways to fix a leaky roof, if you want results that last and don't cause further damage to your home or possessions, then it's best to contact a professional roofing company as soon as possible.

When hiring a roofing company, look for:

• Licensed professionals who have insurance and proper certifications in order to protect yourself from liability issues later down the line.
• A business with hundreds or thousands of satisfied customers because they do good work and keep their word.

Although it can be difficult to do so, try to stay calm when you discover a leak in your roof. Getting angry or upset will only worsen the situation and make you more likely to make mistakes that could lead to further problems down the road. If possible, call a professional immediately who will inspect your Anaheim, CA home for damage and provide repair services if necessary.

The 3 Categories of Water Damage

12/29/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the type of water damage, it's important to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

The 3 Categories of Water Damage

Water damage is a common and potentially costly problem that can affect homes and businesses. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including natural disasters, faulty plumbing, and leaks in the roof or walls. Understanding the different categories of water damage can help you identify the source of the problem, assess the extent of the damage, and determine the best course of action for repair and restoration.

There are three main categories of water damage:

1. Category 1 (clean water): This type of water damage is caused by clean, clear water that does not pose a health risk. Examples include water from a broken supply line or a leaky faucet. This type of water damage is generally easier to clean up and repair, as it does not contain contaminants or bacteria.
2. Category 2 (gray water): This type of water damage is caused by water that has become slightly contaminated, but is not yet considered black water. Examples include water from a washing machine overflow or a toilet with a clean water supply. This type of water damage may require more extensive cleaning and disinfection, as it may contain bacteria or other contaminants.
3. Category 3 (black water): This type of water damage is caused by water that is heavily contaminated. Examples include floodwater, sewage, and water from a backed-up drain. Black water may contain bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances, and should be handled with caution.

Category 1

Examples of sources of category 1 water damage include a broken supply line, a leaky faucet, or a small leak in the roof or walls. In these cases, the water is typically clean and does not pose a health risk, although it can still cause damage to building materials and personal property.

If you suspect that you have category 1 water damage, it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent further damage. The first step is to identify and stop the source of the water, whether it's a broken pipe or a leaky roof. Next, you'll want to remove any standing water and dry out the affected area. This can be done using fans, dehumidifiers, and other drying equipment.

Category 2

Examples of sources of category 2 water damage include a washing machine overflow, a toilet with a clean water supply, or a dishwasher leak. In these cases, the water may contain bacteria or other contaminants, but it is not as heavily contaminated as black water.

Once the area is dry, you'll need to clean and disinfect the affected area to prevent the growth of bacteria and other contaminants. This may involve using special cleaning agents and following recommended guidelines for cleaning and disinfection.

Category 3

Examples of sources of category 3 water damage include floodwater, sewage, and water from a backed-up drain. In these cases, the water is heavily contaminated and poses a serious health risk to those who come into contact with it.

If you suspect that you have category 3 water damage, it's important to take extreme caution to protect your safety. You should not attempt to clean up or repair the damage yourself, as it is likely that special equipment and expertise are required to safely address the problem.

It's important to identify the category of water damage in order to determine the appropriate course of action for repair and restoration. Category 1 and 2 water damage can usually be cleaned up and repaired relatively easily, while category 3 water damage may require professional cleanup and restoration services. Regardless of the type of water damage, it's important to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage and to protect the health and safety of those in the affected area.

Wet Items Care After Water Damage

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

When an item has been damaged by water and is not salvageable, it should be thrown away.

Wet Items Care After Water Damage

When you have a water loss in your Anaheim, CA home, you will want to know how to clean up and save items that have been damaged. The level of contamination a room receives will determine what precautions should be taken. If the water is contaminated with sewage, do not attempt to clean it yourself. Some items can be cleaned, others should be dried and cleaned, and some are just not worth saving from an insurance standpoint.

If your home has a water loss, you will want to know how to clean up and save items that have been damaged.

When a flood or other water damage occurs in your home, you may be left wondering how to clean up the mess and salvage damaged items. Here are some tips for how to clean up after a flood:

• Remove all wet materials from the area as soon as possible. This includes rugs, carpets, clothes and more.
• Use fans or dehumidifiers in the room being cleaned out to remove any remaining moisture from walls and furniture. This will prevent mold from growing on these surfaces.
• Spray down or wipe down any hardwood floors with vinegar mixed with warm water until they are completely dry before walking on them again—this will prevent warping of wood flooring due to excess moisture in its fibers when wet (such as hardwood floors).

The level of contamination a room receives will determine what precautions should be taken.

If the water is only contaminated with dirt, you can clean it yourself. If the water was just sewage or sewage mixed with dirt, you should hire a professional like SERVPRO of Anaheim West.

If the water is contaminated with sewage, do not attempt to clean it yourself.

If you are not sure whether the water was contaminated with sewage, it is best to contact a company that specializes in water damage restoration and can make an assessment.

Some items can be cleaned, others should be dried and cleaned, and some are just not worth saving from an insurance standpoint.

You may have heard that you can save almost anything if it's been submerged in water. This isn't necessarily true, and it depends on the type of water damage.

• Some items can be cleaned, others should be dried and cleaned, and some are just not worth saving from an insurance standpoint. If your item is damaged due to exposure to floodwater or sewage, it will likely need to be thrown away. In addition, any items that were exposed to contaminated ground or other debris should also be discarded.
• Some items that haven't been damaged but have had contact with floodwater or sewage should still be thrown away as well because they've been exposed to mold spores (which could grow later). These include soft furnishings like pillows and cushions; books; shoes; clothing; curtains etc.,
• Other items such as electronics can usually still function even after being exposed to water (if the electricity hasn't gone out), but if they do get wet at all then you'll want them dried out as soon as possible so they don't short-circuit! It's important not let these types of devices sit around because mold can start growing inside them very quickly if left untouched for too long.

Many water-damaged items can be salvaged if they are cleaned quickly before they begin to mold or mildew

If your items have not been damaged by water, they can be salvaged.

When an item has been damaged by water and is not salvageable, it should be thrown away.

Some items cannot be salvaged at all and need to be disposed of immediately after a flood or leak.

When there is a water loss, it is important to clean the items properly and quickly. If you don’t, they may become contaminated with bacteria or mold and mildew which can cause health problems for you and your family. It is also important to know that some items are not worth saving as they have been damaged beyond repair and/or have reached their expiration date.

Smoke damage in your building

10/24/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Anaheim West, our technicians use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot.

Smoke Damage In Your Building

Fire and smoke damage can happen to anyone. When a fire breaks out in your Anaheim, CA home or business, the professional restoration teams at SERVPRO of Anaheim West are ready to respond with our 24-hour emergency services. We have the training, equipment, and resources to handle any size fire or disaster. Our goal is to return damaged structures back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. However, not all fires are created equal. Smoke damage from burning wood and other materials can cause extensive damage even if just one object catches on fire - this includes a mattress that is left too close to the wall or an unattended candle that ignites another material.

Property damage caused by smoke and soot is not just limited to fires. 

Any high-temperature burning process can cause smoke and soot damage in your building. These include dryer vents, wood stoves, cooking appliances, and industrial processes such as refineries and lumber mills.

The types of property damage that occur due to smoke and soot are very similar to those caused by fire:

• Debris from the building structure or interior furnishings may be released into the air during a fire but also during other types of combustion processes (like kitchen fires)
• Soot deposits on surfaces like walls, ceilings, and floors can make them look dirty or discolored, obscuring their true appearance; this may have an adverse impact on the resale value of your property

Regardless of the type of fire or smoke damage, everyone has the same questions about how to fix it as well as deep concerns about how much it will cost them.

Here are a few questions you should keep in mind when dealing with your property insurance company:

• What is the damage?
• Does your policy cover smoke and soot removal? If not, then you may have to hire a professional to do this for you. 
• How much will it cost? This can vary widely depending on contractor fees and equipment used, but expect to pay between $1-$10 per square foot ($100-$1,000+). 
• What exactly is covered by my policy? Does it cover rebuilding costs after an accidental fire destroys my home? The answer is “maybe”; each policy varies greatly based on several factors including where your home was built (some areas have stricter building codes than others) how old the structure is (older homes tend not only to require more repairs but also possibly increased premiums due to their riskier nature), etcetera...

At SERVPRO of Anaheim West, our technicians use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, floors, and contents. We work hard to restore your building back to its preloss condition quickly.

Smoke damage is the result of fire and/or smoke damage. Fire damages the contents of a building, including fabric, wood, and paper products. Smoke damage occurs when heat from a fire causes materials such as ceiling tiles and wallboard to swell or warp. This can cause them to buckle or crumble away from the ceiling joists or studs that support them. The resulting gaps allow smoke, soot, and water vapor to enter your home even through very small spaces.

Smoke can also deposit itself into cracks in drywall, walls, and floors creating an odor problem. When this happens it’s important that we get rid of it before it has time to settle into these areas making removal much more difficult later on down the road if not done right away!

Smoke and soot damages can be extensive even if the fire was small.

Even if the fire was small, smoke and soot can cause extensive damage to your building and its contents.

Smoke from a fire tends to travel along the ceiling, accumulating in voids such as attics, wall cavities, and dropped ceilings as well as within furniture, furnishings, and storage areas. In addition to leaving an unpleasant smell behind, it will also stain surfaces with a black deposit (soot). Soil from ash particles may also fall onto soft furnishings where it can build up unnoticed until you attempt to clean them - this is known as “creosote”.

Conclusion

Smoke and soot damages can be extensive even if the fire was small. At SERVPRO of Anaheim West, our technicians use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, floors, and contents. We work hard to restore your building back to its preloss condition quickly. Call us today at 714-533-1989 for help with your smoke damage cleanup!

How FEMA Can Help After a Storm

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

If your house has been damaged by floodwaters call SERVPRO.

How To Deal With Flooding Or The Devastation Of A Hurricane

A hurricane or storm can leave terrible damage to homes in Anaheim, CA, but there is help. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can help homeowners get back on their feet following storm damage. Below is an idea of what to expect in the event of a hurricane in your area.

• Registration

The first step in the process is to make sure you are registered with FEMA. The easiest way to register is to go online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or to download the app. You can also call 800-621-3362 to get started over the phone or visit a Disaster Recovery Center in the event that you do not have internet access.

Be prepared with your Social Security number, address, income, insurance information and bank routing numbers, in addition to a detailed description of the damage to your home. Some homeowners have to submit a Small Business Administration loan application before their eligibility is determined. You’ll be given a nine-digit registration number to use for all future correspondence.

• Inspection

After registration is complete, the agency will contact you to set up a home inspection. They will assess any flood damage to the home during this time. The inspector should display his or her identification when he or she arrives. Homeowners or renters will be required to prove occupancy or ownership at this time, so be prepared with a payment receipt or rental agreement and government identification.

• Follow-Up

Following the inspection, registrants will receive notification about their applications via mail, email or text. Be sure to read everything because often times, people have to submit further documentation. If you aren’t sure what the letter means, you can contact the helpline at 800-621-3362.

No one wants to deal with flooding or the devastation of a hurricane, but fortunately, there is help. FEMA exists to help homeowners through this situation and get back to their normal lives as quickly as possible.

How To Prevent Mold Growth

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Mold spores are tiny seeds used to reproduce.

Follow The Three Steps Below To Prevent Mold Damage

Mold growth in your Anaheim, CA, home may be a result of water damage, high humidity, or other issues. Following the three steps below can greatly reduce the likelihood of your home developing a severe mold problem.

1. Minimize Mold Spores 

A visible patch of mold results from mold spores attaching to a surface and multiplying. Therefore, decreasing the number of mold spores decreases the chance of visible mold developing. Air purifiers with HEPA filters can trap the spores in the air, and regular carpet cleaning can remove spores stuck in carpet fibers.

2. Control Moisture 

Because it is impossible to eliminate all mold spores from your home, it is important to make sure the spores do not encounter conditions conducive to mold growth, i.e., food, water, and warmth. Most homes are warm enough and have a variety of food sources to sustain fungi, so controlling the moisture level is key to preventing an infestation. Keep the indoor humidity lower than 50%.

It may be necessary to run a dehumidifier in bathrooms, basements, and other wet areas. Clean up spills and repair leaks promptly. If your home suffers water damage, dry up the water as quickly as possible. For severe cases, it may be necessary to hire a professional restoration company to ensure everything is fully dry and clean.

3. Perform Routine Inspections 

Mold prevention strategies are important, but it may not be possible to avert all growth. Fortunately, regularly checking for signs of mold damage ensures that the problem is caught before becoming disastrous. Check wet areas, hidden areas and anywhere that has had mold before. Keep an eye out for warping drywall, peeling wallpaper and other signs of deterioration as these can indicate mold is growing behind the walls.

Water damage and other mold-causing situations may be unavoidable. However, understanding the conditions necessary for mold growth and acting quickly when those conditions arise can help keep your home mold-free.

3 Things Homeowners Should Clean To Prevent a Lint Fire

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Clean the lint filter each time the dryer is used

Prevent a Lint Fire

Accumulated lint in the dryer vents of your home is a danger, especially if the vents have never been cleaned. A lint fire hazard can be overlooked by homeowners in Southwest Anaheim, CA because the lint is hidden.

To Avoid A Fire, You Can

• Clean your dryer vents regularly
• Remove lint from the dryer filter after each use
• Have your dryer serviced routinely by a professional

A dryer that has stopped working effectively is a sign that you have a clogged dryer vent. To find and clean hidden lint, check these three areas.

1. Dryer Vents
The dryer vent allows lint to escape through a pipe that has its opening on the roof each time you use the dryer. Sometimes, the wall damper through which the lint is meant to escape is covered by a mesh screen. This blocks the exit for the lint, causing it to accumulate with each use of your dryer. The wall damper should be covered to keep rain from moistening the dryer vent. Ensure that the damper opens with each use for proper ventilation.

2. Behind the Dryer
Lint behind your dryer is another indicator for a clogged dryer vent. This lint can be neglected because of its location behind the dryer and out of sight. Check behind your dryer regularly and clean well to prevent a lint fire. If you notice lint accumulating behind your dryer, contact a professional cleaning service to clean the vents.

3. The Lint Filter
Each time the dryer is used, the lint filter accumulates thread particles. If it is not cleaned, it can cause a dryer fire. The lint filter and its housing should be cleaned with a brush at least once a month to prevent hidden lint from igniting within the dryer. It should be cleaned before and after each use of the dryer.

Dryer vents that have not been treated are a fire hazard. In case of a lint fire, you should know what companies provide fire damage restoration services in your area. Maintaining your dryer vent clean will protect you from property loss and fire damage restoration costs.

How To Use a Fire Extinguisher in a Commercial Fire

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

Safety should always come first when considering using a fire extinguisher.

If your business in Anaheim, CA, has a fire, your normal inclination might be to immediately put it out. However, while a sense of panic is natural before you grab your fire extinguisher, you need to take a breath and really assess the situation.

If turning something off will immediately stop a fire and you can safely do that should be your first step. If the fire is spreading quickly, get everyone out of the building and call the fire department. But if the fire is small and poses no immediate risk, here's how to use a fire extinguisher effectively and safely.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

The 4 basic classes of fire extinguishers found in restaurants are:

• Class A for materials such as wood, paper and cardboard
• Class B for oils, petroleum and grease
• Class C for electronics and electrical
• Class K for a kitchen fire
  
  

The most common type found in businesses and homes is ABC, which covers most fires. However, many commercial kitchens are required to have a Class K fire extinguisher, so employees should know the difference.

The P.A.S.S. Method

Fortunately, handheld extinguishers are easy to use. P.A.S.S. stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep. However, before you use the device, always call the fire department first. If there's no time to call them, there's no time to try to fight the flames!

Grab the extinguisher and pull the pin off the top. It's usually secured with a light tamper-proof ring that should be easy to break with a fairly gentle tug for most people. Aim the extinguisher at the base of the flames and slowly squeeze the handle. Sweep the extinguisher back and forth until the fire is suppressed.

Once the flames are out, you'll need to call a smoke and fire damage restoration expert. Smoke will leave soot everywhere, which usually requires commercial cleaners to remove. Smoke damage can spread throughout a business in minutes.

Safety should always come first when considering using a fire extinguisher. However, if you have the time, you can save tens of thousands of dollars in damage if you're prepared.