Appliance Repair in 19405 · Norristown, Bridgeport & King of Prussia

Ida's flooding in September 2021 hit low-lying parts of Bridgeport along the Schuylkill, and anyone who lived through it knows how fast basement water can rise. Since basement appliances are the most exposed, a little preparation can save a washer, dryer or freezer the next time a big storm is in the forecast.

Start with height. Placing a washer and dryer on a sturdy, level platform raises the motors and controls above shallow water. Pedestals sold for front-load pairs add some height, and a properly built base adds more. Keep a chest freezer up on blocks if it has to stay in the basement, or move it to a higher floor if there is room.

When a serious storm is forecast, unplug basement appliances or switch off their circuits, and close the water valves to the washer. Move the contents of a basement freezer upstairs if you can. For a gas dryer, know where its shutoff valve is, but do not handle gas fittings beyond turning that valve. After any flood, do not restart an appliance that got wet until it has been checked, and if you smell gas, leave and call PECO or your gas utility, or 911, from outside. Writing down the model numbers of your basement appliances before a storm season also makes any later diagnosis faster.

Most Bridgeport homes rely on street parking, so let us know about any nearby off-street space. Make sure the basement stairs are clear and lit. If an appliance was exposed to water, keep it unplugged and tell us how high the water reached so the technician can check the right components.