How Do Restoration Pros Pump Out Water From a House?

When water sits on your floors, the pros bring in submersible pumps that sit right in the water. These pumps push water through long hoses to a street drain, a utility sink, or an exterior area away from your foundation. The pump's intake sits near the floor to pull water from the lowest spots.

For deeper water, they may use a trash pump that handles small debris like dirt or leaves. The pros check the water level often and move the pump as the water drops. They also watch for electrical hazards, so they may shut off power to affected rooms before starting.

• Submersible pumps work well for shallow or deep water
• Trash pumps manage water with small debris
• Hoses route water to a safe drainage point
• Pumps are placed at the lowest points
• Power is shut off to wet areas for safety
• Water level is checked and the pump is adjusted

Water seeps into drywall, wood framing, and insulation, so the pros drill small holes or cut openings to let it drain out. They may also use air movers and dehumidifiers to pull moisture from these spaces. This is called structural drying, and it helps prevent warping and mold.

The pros check moisture levels with a meter to see how deep the water has gone. They may remove baseboards or cut drywall a few inches above the water line. This allows air to circulate behind the walls and speeds up the drying process.

If water depth reaches more than a few inches, or if the water comes from a sewer or flood, call the pros. They have the right pumps and safety gear to handle large volumes and contaminated water. Do not try to pump sewage yourself, as it can spread bacteria and disease.

The pros can also document the damage for your insurance claim. They take photos and note the water level and affected areas. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Ask your insurance company what documentation they need and keep records of everything.