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Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill

Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill

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How to Save Money on Utilities this Summer

You may be enjoying the great outdoors this summer, but your home still needs to be a cool escape from the summer heat. While blasting the A/C inside keeps your home cool, it can also be expensive. Read on for a few easy, affordable ways you can lower your energy bill this summer while ensuring your home remains comfortable.

Seal windows and doors 

Windows and doors are the entryways to your home, so they’re the first point where cool air can escape and hot air can enter. To help reduce your energy bill, check the seals on windows and doors to ensure they’re in good shape, and re-caulk or seal any areas that may have degraded over time. 

Use blackout shades or heavy curtains on windows

In addition to sealing windows and doors, another way to lower your energy bill is by limiting the amount of heat that enters the home. Because sunlight streaming in through a window can heat up a room, make sure that you use blackout shades or heavy curtains to limit the amount of sunlight that comes in through the windows. 

Use ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can help you make the most of the cool air that your HVAC is delivering. You can create a downdraft of cool air by programming ceiling fans to turn counterclockwise. If you use your ceiling fan wisely, you can decrease the intensity of your A/C output. 

Upgrade your thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat is a great way to lower your energy bills. You can choose a specific temperature that you’d like to keep your home at, and set the A/C to run less while you’re not at home. Many newer thermostat systems allow you to adjust temperatures remotely via an app, so you can program the A/C to start cooling your home just before your return from work!

Rethink your lighting

Upgrading your light bulbs and turning off unnecessary lighting can reduce your energy costs. Be sure to turn off all lights before leaving a room, going to bed at night, or leaving the house. It may also be a good idea to power down electronics that aren’t being used at nighttime. You can also consider installing new LED bulbs, which can be 80% more efficient than traditional light bulbs. 

HVAC maintenance

A well-maintained HVAC system will run more efficiently and cost you less money. To ensure your HVAC system is in good condition, be sure to replace air filters regularly so that cold air can get pushed through your home without obstructions. 

Lower water heater temperature

Lowering your water heater temperature is a lesser known way to lower your energy bill, but when used along with the methods mentioned above, you may be able to see the difference in your monthly energy usage. Most water heaters are programmed to 140℉, but you won’t feel the difference if you lower it to 120℉. According to the EPA, lowering your water temperature may amount to as much as $400 in savings over the course of a year. 

Looking for more summer home maintenance tips? Call South Sound Inspections for professional advice today!

High Humidity in the Home

High Humidity in the Home

Home Inspections,home maintenance,InformationNo Comments

Why Humidity is a Problem and What to do About It

Living in a damp climate like the Pacific Northwest can lead to issues around the home, specifically regarding humidity. Humid air inside the home can feel heavy and uncomfortable; in some cases, it can also be unhealthy. While there may be a variety of causes for humidity in the home, there are also accessible solutions that can help, too. Read on for information about what to do when your home is feeling too humid.

What are common causes of humidity in the home?

During hot, muggy summer weather, humidity can enter your home if it’s not properly sealed and if your HVAC system isn’t working properly.

 Air leaks caused by open gaps or seams can draw humidity inside. And an HVAC system that is outdated or incorrectly sized can also lead to a humid-feeling home. A good choice for high-humidity is an air-source heat pump, which transfers heat from inside your home to the outside.

Another common cause of humidity in the home can be using appliances for cooking, drying clothes, washing dishes, or taking showers. These activities add more moisture to the air and can make it uncomfortable inside, especially when it’s humid outside, too. Make sure your dryer’s discharge pump is connected properly to the back of the dryer and that it’s depositing air outside. 

Plumbing leaks, moisture from soil under your home, and poor insulation can also cause humidity in the home.

Why is humidity in the home a problem?

Excess humidity in the home may lead to electrical issues, mold and mildew growth, and musty odors.

If the humidity in your home gets to 50% or higher, it may cause corroded wires and condensation – two things you do not want interfering with your electrical system.

High humidity over 60% may damage wallpaper, furniture, brickwork, and floors. It can also encourage mold and mildew growth, which may exacerbate allergies or other respiratory issues.

How can I decrease humidity in the home?

Many homeowners will respond to humidity in the home by purchasing a dehumidifier (or several, depending on the size of the home). But this is only a temporary fix.

You may want to consider either upgrading your HVAC system, or getting it correctly sized to your home. When a large A/C works to cool a small space, it tends to short-cycle (only running for a few minutes), before it shuts down, so it can’t keep up with the humidity building up outside. Homes usually need longer run-times – not extra-large air conditioning units – to keep living spaces cool and dry.

You can also try increasing ventilation in high-humidity areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Install an exhaust fan in these areas and open up windows when possible to circulate some fresh air. 

Should I get a dehumidifier?

Getting a dehumidifier is often a first impulse of many homeowners who are struggling with humidity in the home. A dehumidifier can remove excess moisture from the air, and the amount of time you run it depends on the size of your home. However, portable dehumidifiers are only a temporary solution, and you will have to dump out the water it collects and clean it to prevent mold and mildew growth inside the appliance.

The best long-term solution is to get your insulation inspected to ensure it’s working optimally, and to check your doors and windows to see that they’re properly sealed.

If you’re wondering whether or not your home is prepared for a hot and humid summer, contact South Sound Inspections for more information.

How to Keep Your Home Cool in Summer

How to Keep Your Home Cool in Summer

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Once summer arrives, you and the family are most likely excited about soaking up the sun and enjoying the great outdoors. But it’s a good idea to make sure that your indoor areas can be a welcome escape from the heat. From maintaining your A/C unit, to outfitting your windows and doors for the season, here are some key tips for keeping your home cool in the summer.

Check Your Doors and Windows

Making sure that cool air doesn’t escape your home is key to maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. It’s a good idea to seal gaps around doors and windows, and add a draught guard to the bottom of doors so cool air doesn’t seep out from the bottom.

For windows, clean the window track and sill to ensure that windows fully close. If you see cracks around the window, seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.

Make Use of Curtains

Keeping your blinds closed (if you have them) or shutting your curtains can help to block heat from the sun’s rays outside to keep you cool indoors. Heavier and thicker than typical drapes or blinds, blackout curtains provide a barrier between you and the heat outside. Some blackout curtains also feature a reflective side that helps to redirect heat and sun away from the inside.

Maintain Your A/C Unit

Your A/C unit works best when it’s clean and well-maintained, so get in the habit of installing new air filters every few months. Clogged, dirty filters can limit the flow of cool air, and if air flow is obstructed, it can bypass the filter and leave dirt on the evaporator coil, which decreases the coil’s heat-absorbing abilities.

If your A/C unit is outside, clear debris like tall grass, weeds, and leaves that may have gathered around it. You can also remove the fan cage to clean out debris from the inside.

Use Your Ceiling Fan Wisely

The direction that your ceiling fan spins can have an impact on how cool your home feels during the summer. To encourage a downdraft of cool air, program your ceiling fan to turn counterclockwise. This can enhance the cooling effects of the A/C when it’s running.

Seal the Fireplace

A fireplace is great for cozy, winter nights, but during the summer you’ll want to ensure that cold air doesn’t make its way up and out of the home, and that warm air doesn’t come into the home. Close and seal the damper to prevent air flow, and adding a chimney cap damper can help to seal off the fireplace from the top.

Check Your Attic Insulation

A well-insulated attic can help keep your home cool during the summer. Inspect your attic to see if the insulation is dirty or compressed – if so, you may need to replace it with newer materials that can more effectively block heat transfer. Seal and weatherstrip around the windows in your attic to ensure hot air doesn’t move from your attic to the rest of the home.

If you’re wondering how your HVAC system will keep up with hot temperatures this summer, contact South Sound Inspections for an evaluation of your heating and cooling systems.

Common Fixes Before Moving In

Common Fixes Before Moving In

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After you’ve completed the home inspection, signed the mortgage papers, and packed up all your things, moving into a new place may still require some work. While the home inspection identified issues that needed to be repaired before you moved in, there may be smaller fixes that still need to be done to make your new house a home. Make the most of your fresh start by completing these common fixes for moving into a new home. 

Change Your Locks

One of the very first tasks to take on after you move in is changing, or rekeying, the locks. If you are moving into a home with previous owners, definitely take the time to change the locks because you cannot be sure who may have an extra set of keys that allows access to your property. A newly built home with no previous owners won’t require this step, but keep reading below for more quick fixes.

Pest Control

Older homes in urban areas usually need more attention when it comes to pest control, but these fixes are a great idea for new homes, too. Install door sweeps at the bottom of all exterior doors to act as a barrier between your home and outdoor pests. Caulk the sides of doors and windows, and seal utility openings with expandable foam, steel wool, copper mesh, or cement. Identify and repair small openings or cracks near attic vents, the roof, and crawl space areas, since those are popular places for pests to enter your home. 

Fire Safety

The last thing you want in your new home is a fire hazard. Ensure safety for you and your family by purchasing a fire extinguisher and installing a smoke alarm, if you don’t have one already. When arranging furniture, appliances, and any electronics in your new home, make sure those areas are free of overloaded power strips and that they’re not hot to the touch. Outlets and extension cords should also have proper air circulation. 

Heating and Cooling System Clean Up

Whether you’re moving into a home with previous owners, or a newly built property, chances are the HVAC system could use a clean up. In newly built homes, debris and dust from construction can build up in vents and cause odors or particles to settle on your new home’s surfaces. In older homes, you will likely deal with dust remnants from the previous owners. You can clean the vents yourself with a vacuum and other common household supplies, or call a professional service that can clear the vents for you. 

Squeaks and Creaks

Creaking floors, squeaking door hinges, and noisy floorboards may not have been included in the home inspection report as red flag items, but you can make these minor repairs right when you move in. You can use surfboard wax, WB-40, or petroleum jelly to lubricate door hinges. Wooden floor creaks are usually caused by wood shrinkage around the nails, and you can fix this by using counter snaps, which are screws driven into the wood. After inserting the screws, fill in the holes with wood putty. 

Looking for more advice about what to repair after moving into a new home? Contact South Sound Inspections for an expert opinion. 

Why Get an Inspection for a New Home:

Why Get an Inspection for a New Home:

Construction,Home Inspections,InformationNo Comments

Common Questions about New Construction Inspections

Newly constructed homes are attractive to potential buyers because without previous residents, it seems less likely that a new home will have problems. But, newly constructed homes can also have structural and mechanical issues that you should be aware of, which is why new builds need inspections, too. Some newer homes are built with speed, rather than quality, in mind, which can lead to costly repairs down the road. Here are some reasons why new construction homes also need inspections.

Why get an inspection for a new home?

You should get an inspection for a new home, just as you would a previously-owned home because sometimes builders make mistakes, and you need to be aware of these problems before moving in. An inspection for a new home may reveal hidden issues that should be addressed with repairs or maintenance before you start living there. 

How many inspections does a new home need?

A newly built home can have up to three inspections before residents move in. The first is called a foundation inspection, which happens before concrete is poured for the foundation. This inspection looks at how the ground has been excavated and graded, and identifies any issues with the anchors and footing. 

A second inspection happens before the walls and sheetrock are put up. This framing inspection checks that beams, posts, and studs are installed correctly, along with wiring, window flashings, and plumbing. 

The third and final inspection happens once the home is complete, and as a typical inspection it includes assessments of electrical, HVAC, plumbing, foundation, walls, floors, windows, and roof. This inspection gives an objective, unbiased assessment of the new home’s overall condition. After each inspection the builder has an opportunity to fix any issues. 

What happens after a new home inspection?

If an inspector notices issues during the foundation or framing inspection, the builder has an opportunity to fix them. The builder can re-grade soil, adjust frames, or re-wire electric systems before the next steps in the building process. After the third and final inspection, the inspector can still recommend repairs to ensure the home is safe and completed according to code and building standards. In many cases, newly built homes have a warranty that covers the cost of repairs made by the builder. 

What does an inspector look for in a new home?

During the third and final inspection, a home inspector treats the new home similar to a pre-owned home. Here are some common items an inspector will examine:

  • HVAC: Dust and debris leftover from construction is a common issue in new homes, and the HVAC system should be checked for obstructions. 
  • Electrical: If a new home was built quickly, and the wiring or electrical systems were installed poorly, an inspector will point out issues to be repaired.
  • Foundation and structural problems: Watch for cracks more than 1/8th of an inch wide because they can indicate the foundation has been bent.
  • Windows and doors: During a fast build, it’s likely that doors and windows could have been hastily and incorrectly installed.
  • Flooring: Poorly installed floors can buckle or warp, and heavy appliances being dragged across new floors can cause scratches.
  • Walls and nail pops: When new homes settle and walls complete the drying process, it’s possible that the heads of some nails may stick out from the drywall.
  • Siding: A hasty vinyl siding installation can lead to warping and buckling.
  • Plumbing: Sometimes it’s possible that pipes get clogged with construction site debris, and running toilets and blocked drains are common issues in new homes.
  • Grading and drainage: When a new home’s lot is not properly graded, water can run toward the house, rather than away, and cause flooding issues.

If you’re in the market for a newly built home, contact South Sound Inspections to learn more about inspections for new construction.

Problems to Look for When Buying an Old Home

Problems to Look for When Buying an Old Home

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Older homes certainly have unique features that newer homes can lack, like built-in bookshelves, hardwood floors, crown moldings, and stained glass windows. Some older homes also boast high quality materials; for example, walls are more likely to be built with plaster and lathe, making them more soundproof. While you may be excited about the possibilities of living in an older home, there are still common issues to be aware of. Read on for information about problems to look for when buying an old house.

1. Foundation

The foundation supports a house’s entire structure, so issues with a foundation are critical to the overall safety and livability of any home. As a foundation ages, these issues may occur:

  • Uneven floors
  • Doors and windows that “stick” or have trouble closing
  • Cracks in the concrete near the ground or basement
  • Drywall cracks

If an inspector notices any of these warning signs of a damaged foundation, you should schedule some repairs. 

2. Lead Paint

Homes built prior to 1978 are likely to have lead paint, which has since been banned from consumer use because it is toxic, especially for young children. It’s possible that an old house may have a coat of lead paint underneath layers of newer, safer paints. If an inspector discovers the presence of lead paint, it can be removed safely with the help of a certified professional.

3. Asbestos

Similar to lead paint, asbestos is another material that was popularly used in home builds decades ago, but has now been found to be unsafe. Asbestos is a toxic mineral that was commonly used in insulation and fireproofing materials for homes built before 1980. 

A home inspector may be able to identify areas where asbestos likely exists, but you should hire a professional to test the materials to make sure.

If a professional evaluation reveals asbestos, it’s possible to remove it from your home. In certain instances, a professional may determine that removal would be too risky, and it’s best to avoid disturbing areas (i.e, do not remove floor tiles or walls) that contain asbestos. 

4. Roof

An old roof may cause numerous problems like water leaking into your attic, or even pest infestations. Over time, shingles may get damaged, or become covered in mold or algae.

A roof in poor condition can also make your home less energy efficient as indoor air escapes outside through cracks in the roof, and it can also be a fire hazard if water leaks onto any electrical wiring inside.

5. Water Damage and Leaks

A damaged roof is one possible cause of water damage and leaks. Basements in older homes can harbor cracks in the foundation that allow water and moisture to seep in, and older plumbing systems can fall victim to rusted pipes. 

Some old houses also use hand-dug wells as a water source, which run a risk of contamination. Check your prospective home’s water source and get a professional safety assessment. 

6. Electrical systems

Homes 50 years old or more were not built with laptops, flat screen TVs, multiple appliances, and device charging stations in mind. Some older homes may feature knob and tube wiring, which cannot withstand modern day electrical needs. 

Another issue with old homes is aluminum wiring because it is prone to overheating and loosening over time. You should also consider the amperage needed for your home. Most modern homes need 200 amps, but many older homes are only built with 60 or 100 amps. Finally, ungrounded outlets, which lack an attached grounding wire, can also be a common issue. 

7. Insects and Pests

Insects, rats, mice – even squirrels and raccoons – can make nests in older homes, and termites are known to devour water-damaged wood in old houses. Be sure to check attics and basements for signs of pest infestations, like eaten-away insulation, droppings, holes, and gnaw marks. 

If you’re wondering about the condition of an older home you’re thinking of purchasing, contact South Sound Inspections today! 

Tips for Keeping Your Home Sale Ready

Tips for Keeping Your Home Sale Ready

Home Inspections,home maintenance,InformationNo Comments

When it comes to real estate, first impressions matter. That’s why you want to make sure your home looks its best before you put it on the market. Potential buyers want to see themselves in a fresh, clean home that’s been well-maintained. Here are some tips to help you keep your home sale ready inside and outside without doing any major or expensive upgrades.

Consider Curb Appeal

When you decide to list your home, aesthetics are everything. Be sure your house looks attractive from the street by completing these minor improvements to the front exterior:

  • Landscaping. Trim overgrown trees and hedges, plant perennials or annuals for seasonal color, eradicate weeds, and treat areas of dry or dead grass. Consider adding hanging baskets or pots of low maintenance annuals, like geraniums, if you have a sunny front porch.
  • Painting. Get rid of any peeling or faded paint by adding a fresh coat to your exterior, including shutters. Painting the front door in a color that pops, like a bright red, blue, or yellow, is an easy way to make your home look more inviting.
  • Repair driveways and walkways. Add a fresh coat of asphalt to your driveway, or repair cracks in the concrete. Also take this opportunity to update walkways with new flagstones.
  • Get your roof in order. Clean out gutters and replace broken or missing shingles.

Care for the Backyard

Buyers like a well-maintained backyard that they can see themselves spending time in, so consider these updates:

  • Stain the deck or porch. A nice deck stain not only gives your backyard a polished look, it can also protect your deck from the elements.
  • Care for the lawn. Make sure the grass is neatly mowed and free of weeds like dandelions and crabgrass.
  • Fix fencing. You can repaint and weatherproof wood fences and repair broken fence posts. If you have a metal chain link fence, replace rusted metal components.

Freshen Up Interiors

Potential buyers love walking into a home that feels bright, clean, and airy. Here’s how you can create that feeling in your home: 

  • Add a fresh coat of paint. New paint can make an older home feel like new. Choose neutral colors and save money by painting yourself. Removing wallpaper is a great way to make your home appeal to a variety of buyers.
  • Focus on lighting. Add new, updated light fixtures, window treatments or blinds. Also get your windows cleaned to emphasize natural lighting.
  • Update the kitchen. Kitchens can make or break a home sale, so update older cabinets, appliances, and hardware, freshen up the paint with a neutral color, and if your budget allows, purchase new, stainless steel appliances to give your kitchen a sleek, updated look.

Minor Repairs

People want to see a home in good condition, so little things like these matter:

  • Fix leaky faucets, showerheads, or running toilets.
  • Make sure door hinges are oiled and don’t squeak, and that doors close easily and fully.
  • Broken floor tiles in the kitchen or bathroom should be replaced, and carpets should be steam cleaned, especially if you have pets.

Once you’ve completed these tasks, you can call a professional home inspector to get more information about the systems in your home that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Call South Sound Inspections to schedule a pre-listing inspection that will give you information you need about what repairs your home may need before selling.

9 Tips for Keeping Your Home Warm this Winter

9 Tips for Keeping Your Home Warm this Winter

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You want your home to be warm and comfortable during the winter, but sometimes the cold finds its way indoors. There are some steps you can take before winter and during the colder months to keep your home warm. Read on for 9 tips that may help keep your home warm without increasing energy costs.

1) Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed

Window caulking is a good way to seal your windows for winter, and it can be done in a few easy steps. Heat shrink film is another good idea for windows, while door draft stoppers can combat cold air coming in through the bottom of a door.

2) Use dampers effectively

A damper is a plate that controls the flow of air through a home’s ductwork, and knowing how to adjust them to regulate temperatures can keep your home comfortable. Because hot air rises, you can close the dampers on ducts going to the top floors of your home, and open the dampers for the lower floors so those areas stay warm.

3) Clean the vents

Clean out your HVAC system at least once per year to help ensure proper airflow and decrease the amount of indoor allergens. When the coils in your HVAC system become dirty, it can take up to 30% more energy to heat your home in the winter, so keeping them clean means your HVAC works more efficiently.

4) Check your insulation

Insulation slows down the movement of heat so it doesn’t escape your home. During the summer or fall, examine your insulation for signs and damage and replace if necessary.

5) Change furnace filter

Your furnace is the starting point to heating your home during the winter, and similar to cleaning your ducts, your furnace filter should also be maintained. A dirty or clogged furnace filter can lead to cold spots where airflow is blocked by particles and dirt settling on the system’s components, so switching it out for a clean one is key to keeping your home warm and energy costs down.

6) Install a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature based on the settings you put into the system. This kind of thermostat also allows rooms to be heated independently, so you don’t have to heat the guest room if no one is staying over. You can also adjust temperatures according to your schedule. For example, if you leave the house in the morning and don’t return until the evening, you can lower the temperature for when you’re away and program it to increase when you arrive.

7) Use ceiling fan in reverse

Did you know fans can complement your home’s heating system? When you reverse the motor and turn the fan down to low speed as it spins in counterclockwise direction, it creates an updraft that forces warm air down.

8) Close your fireplace flue

 During the winter, your home’s heat can escape through the fireplace. You can permanently close off your chimney, or if you still want to use it, you can close the chimney flue or damper.

9) Prevent rapid cycling

Also known as “short cycling,” this is when an HVAC system turns on and off every few minutes because it fails to reach the set temperature before turning off. Some causes of rapid cycling include dirty air filters, improperly sized units, refrigerant leaks, electrical issues, or frozen evaporator coils. You may be able to solve some of these issues by replacing the air filter or defrosting the coils.

If you think your home could use an inspection, call South Sound Inspections today to schedule an appointment with an expert. 

Tacoma Side Sewer Inspections

Tacoma Side Sewer Inspections

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What Local Homeowners Need to Know

If you live in Tacoma, WA, and you’re planning to schedule a home inspection, you should know about a recommendation from the city of Tacoma regarding your side sewer, or lateral sewer: the part of the sewer system that connects your private property to the public, city-maintained sanitary sewer main. In order for the city to better maintain its public sewers, it’s important for individual homeowners to do their part in ensuring that their property’s plumbing systems are in good condition. Read on to learn more about what this kind of inspection requires and how it can benefit homeowners.

What is a side sewer inspection?

A side sewer inspection is a detailed examination of a privately owned sewer pipe that sends wastewater away from a home’s toilets, laundry room, drains and sinks and into the city’s main sewer line that’s usually located in the street. This kind of inspection looks at a home’s drainage and plumbing system up to the point where it joins the public sewer. Some cities, like Tacoma, recommend that homeowners get a side sewer inspection to ensure that their private line doesn’t have any issues that will impact the home or the city’s main sewer line.

Why do I need a side sewer inspection?

If you want to make sure that your plumbing and sewer system is free of clogs, leaks, major debris, or other problems, you will need a side sewer inspection. Just like your HVAC, electric, or foundation, a sewage system is a major component of your home, so it needs a professional inspection. Side sewer repairs or replacements can cost $5,000 to $15,000, and the problems you may face before those repairs, like sewage backing up into your kitchen sink or shower, are equally difficult to stomach. As a property owner, you’re responsible for maintaining the side sewer from your home to the main sewer line and performing due diligence to prevent costly future repairs.

What is involved in a side sewer inspection?

During a side sewer inspection, an inspector extends a video camera on a flexible line into the sewer’s pipe’s interior. The real-time footage shows if there are clogs, cracks, debris or even roots growing into your side sewer. The inspector’s final sewer scope report includes video documentation and notes about any damages found.

How do I benefit from a side sewer inspection?

The ultimate benefit of a side sewer inspection is gaining important information about how your side sewer is functioning and whether it may cause problems down the road. The results of the inspection will prepare you for any repairs or replacements that need to be done before major issues occur.

How much does a side sewer inspection cost?

Side sewer inspection costs may vary across the Seattle area, and across inspection services, but the city of Tacoma offers loans for them side sewer inspections. Check if you are eligible for a low-interest loan before scheduling a side sewer inspection.

If you’re looking to get your side sewer inspected, or if you need a full home inspection before buying or selling a property, contact South Sound Inspections today.

SOUTH SOUND INSPECTIONS ANNOUNCES NEW SEWER SCOPE SERVICE

SOUTH SOUND INSPECTIONS ANNOUNCES NEW SEWER SCOPE SERVICE

Home Inspections,Information,PressNo Comments

(Tacoma, WA) Beginning January 1, 2023, South Sound Inspections will offer sewer scoping services. South Sound Inspections serves Seattle-area homeowners with thorough, expert inspections that provide critical information about the condition of their home.

South Sound Inspections’ sewer scoping services give homeowners a glimpse into their sewer lines to identify blockages, leaks, or damaged pipes. These inspections are done with a high-quality camera affixed to a flexible line that is drawn through sewer pipes to provide real-time footage of the pipe’s interior. Sewer scope inspections can help to spot damage otherwise invisible to the naked eye and may prevent expensive plumbing repairs. 

South Sound Inspections founder Robert Jones believes that launching this new service will benefit local homeowners. “Our goal at South Sound Inspections is to give homeowners the most accurate information about the condition of their property. By expanding our services into sewer scoping, we can help people become more knowledgeable about the plumbing and sewer components on their property.” 

South Sound Inspections was founded in 2002 to serve Seattle area homeowners with expert, unbiased property inspections. For more information, contact 253-820-9650

Seller Inspections

Seller Inspections

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What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection and Why You May Want One

You may already be familiar with the need for scheduling a home inspection if you’re buying a home as a way to get more information about the property. But if you are planning on selling your home, it may also be a good idea to get your home inspected before putting it on the market. Although pre-listing seller inspections are not currently as popular as buyer inspections, there are certain benefits for sellers who get their homes inspected. Keep reading for more information about why you may want your home inspected before you sell.

What is a pre-listing inspection?

A pre-listing inspection is a home inspection that a seller schedules before listing their home. This kind of inspection is similar to a standard inspection that a buyer requests before purchasing a home; but, the major difference between the two is that the seller pays for the inspection. A pre-listing inspection includes detailed observations of a seller’s home’s major systems: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, foundation and structure, floors and windows, roof and siding. The inspection can reveal what repairs the seller can make before listing.

When a seller wants to better understand their home’s condition before a potential buyer arranges an inspection, a pre-listing inspection can be a good strategy to avoid surprises and handle major repairs before selling. A home in good condition is usually more attractive to buyers than a home that needs many expensive repairs, and a pre-listing inspection will reveal what fixes should happen before showing the home to potential buyers.

What are the advantages of a pre-listing inspection?

The primary benefit of a pre-listing inspection is it may help to determine a price to sell or when to accept an offer. A pre-listing inspection can offer a seller the peace of mind that comes with a more complete knowledge of their home’s condition. And, more importantly, it can arm seller’s with the facts they need to counter a buyer’s requests before making an offer or signing a purchase agreement. Once a seller is aware of major issues or repairs that need to be made, a seller has more time to prepare to address possible fixes, or to prepare for negotiations with buyers about those issues.

What happens during and after a pre-listing inspection?

During a pre-listing inspection, a seller hires a home inspector to examine every component of a home – from foundation and structure, to roofing and systems like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. The inspector provides detailed descriptions of the condition of these components and identifies possible problems that may need repairs. The cost of the inspection varies based on the size of the home, but in the Seattle area prices start at around $500.

After the inspection, the inspector gives the seller a detailed, unbiased report about the home’s condition. The information in that report can equip a seller to better negotiate a purchase price or to plan for necessary repairs that can make the home more competitive on the market.

If you’re planning on selling your home and would like the peace of mind that comes with a pre-listing inspection, call South Sound Inspections today.

Backup Power Generator Safety

Backup Power Generator Safety

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A portable generator can be a lifesaver for homeowners during extreme weather conditions that knock out power grids. But generators can come with safety hazards like carbon monoxide emissions and electrical shock, so it’s important to understand how to use one correctly. Read on for more information about how to choose a generator and run it safely.  

FIND THE RIGHT WATTAGE

The first step is finding the right wattage generator to power your home based on what you need to keep running, such as a refrigerator, HVAC system, sump pump or lights. For example, a refrigerator typically needs 600-800 watts to function; a sump pump needs 1,500 watts; and a central air conditioning unit uses about 2,000 to 4,000 watts. 

To find the right generator for your home, add up the wattage for the appliances and systems that you need to keep running during an emergency. 

Then, follow this formula to determine the wattage generator you need:

Running Wattage (R) + Starting Wattage (Rx3) = TOTAL wattage.

If your running wattage is 500, add that to 1,500 (or 500 x 3) to get your starting wattage, which results in a total wattage of 2,000. 

HOOK UP YOUR GENERATOR SAFELY

For a simple, low wattage generator that is useful for powering only the essentials, like a refrigerator, microwave or stove for cooking, the basic steps  below may be helpful. Always consult the Owner’s Manual for directions for your specific model: 

  • Locate your generator outside the home, far enough away to prevent exposure to fumes produced when the generator is running. 
  • Fill the generator with gas (the same kind of fuel you’d use for a car), close the cap on the tank, and get a 12 gauge extension cord that will connect the generator to appliances in your home. 
  • After filling the tank and getting the cord, check the oil.
  • Turn the fuel line on.
  • Make sure that the generator is in “Choke” mode. 
  • Turn ON the generator. 
  • Start the engine by pulling cord like you would start a lawn mower. 
  • When engine is on change the choke button to “Run”
  • Plug the extension cord into one of the multiple outlets on the generator. 
  • Plug the other end of the extension cord into the appliance you need to power. 

When installing a larger wattage generator to power your entire home, you can use an InterLock kit or have a professional electrician install it for you to help ensure safety. Townships and municipalities have rules regarding these kinds of installations, so check your local electrical regulations before starting. 

MORE GENERATOR SAFETY TIPS

Here are a few tips to keep in mind, but always follow safety guidelines in your generator’s Owner’s Manual. 

  • Place the generator outside of your home. Running a generator can produce carbon monoxide, so it cannot be run in a basement or garage. Put the generator in a place where residents won’t be exposed to the fumes. 
  • Do NOT operate a generator under rainy or wet conditions. Wait until rain has passed to avoid risk of electrocution, and always operate the generator with dry hands. 
  • Do NOT plug the generator directly into a wall outlet. This is known as “backfeeding” and can put utility workers, your home’s residents and neighbors at risk of electrocution.
  • Fuel storage. Keep your generator fueled if you need to run it during power outage emergencies. Be sure to store fuel in a cool, dry place and you may also choose to use StaBil, a fuel stabilizer, when the generator is not in use to prevent fuel from thickening and gumming up the machinery. 

If you have questions or concerns about using a generator to power your home in emergencies, contact South Sound Inspections today. 

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