Appliance Repair in 19120 · Olney, Logan & Oak Lane

Much of older Philadelphia uses a combined sewer system, which carries rainwater and household wastewater in the same pipes. In a heavy summer thunderstorm those pipes can fill, and water can back up through the lowest opening in the house, which is usually the basement floor drain right beside the washer.

A washer that drains into a laundry tub or standpipe adds its own water to the problem. If the drain line beyond the tub is partly clogged with lint, the tub fills faster than it empties and overflows during the drain cycle. Many people blame the washer for these floods when the machine is working normally.

When basement water reaches the appliances, the risk is to their motors, controls and wiring. Unplug anything that sat in water and have it checked before use. If the washer itself is leaking, the usual suspects are the pump, a cracked hose, a worn door boot on a front-loader or a loose drain connection. A lint trap on the laundry tub outlet helps keep the drain line clear, and a backwater valve installed by a plumber can reduce sewer backups.

Parking can be tight on Olney and Feltonville blocks, so let us know about any rear driveway or nearby spot. Clear the area around the washer, tub and floor drain. If water appeared on the floor, try to note when it happened: during a storm, during the drain cycle, or with the machine off.