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    <title>Tri-County Aire HVAC &amp; Plumbing Articles</title>
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      <title>What Should I Do When a Pipe Bursts?</title>
      <link>https://www.tricountyaire.com/what-should-i-do-when-a-pipe-bursts</link>
      <description>A burst pipe can flood your home in minutes. Learn what to do right away, how to limit water damage, and when to call Tri-County Aire for emergency plumbing.</description>
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           What Should I Do When a Pipe Bursts?
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           A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water into your home in a matter of hours, damaging floors, walls, ceilings, and everything in its path. Whether it's caused by a freeze, aging pipes, or high water pressure, how quickly you act makes a big difference in how much damage you'll have to repair. Here's what to do the moment you discover a burst pipe.
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           What Is the First Thing to Do When a Pipe Bursts?
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           Shut off your home's main water supply. This stops the flow of water to the broken pipe and is the most important step in limiting damage. The main shutoff valve is usually located where the water line enters your home, often in the basement, crawl space, utility room, garage, or near the water heater. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops.
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           If your home is on a private well, turn off the breaker for the well pump as well. Every homeowner should know where their main shutoff valve is before an emergency happens, so take a moment to find yours today if you're not sure.
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           Should I Turn Off the Electricity?
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           If water is near outlets, electrical panels, appliances, or light fixtures, turn off power to the affected area at your electrical panel, but only if you can reach the panel without standing in water. If you can't safely reach it, stay out of the area and call your utility company or an electrician. Never touch electrical equipment while standing in water.
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           What Should I Do After the Water Is Shut Off?
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           Drain the remaining water from your pipes
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           Open your cold water faucets and flush your toilets to drain the water left in the lines and relieve pressure on your plumbing. This helps reduce leaking from the damaged pipe.
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           Turn off your water heater
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           With the water supply off, turn off your water heater to protect it from damage. For an electric water heater, switch off its breaker. For a gas water heater, turn the gas control to the "pilot" or "vacation" setting.
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           Remove standing water and move belongings
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           Mop up standing water, use towels and a wet/dry vacuum, and move furniture, rugs, electronics, and valuables out of the wet area. Open windows and run fans to start drying the space. The faster you dry things out, the lower your risk of mold, which can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours.
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           Document the damage
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           Take photos and video of the burst pipe, the water damage, and any damaged belongings before cleaning up too much. Your insurance company will likely ask for them.
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           Will Homeowners Insurance Cover a Burst Pipe?
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           Many homeowners policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe, though coverage for the pipe repair itself may vary. Damage from a slow, ongoing leak or from a lack of maintenance is often excluded. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and ask what documentation they need.
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           Can I Fix a Burst Pipe Myself?
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           A pipe repair clamp, repair tape, or a rubber patch can temporarily slow a small leak, but these are short-term fixes only. A burst pipe needs a proper repair by a licensed plumber, who can replace the damaged section, check for other weak spots, and make sure your plumbing is safe to use before the water is turned back on.
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           What Causes Pipes to Burst?
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           Freezing is one of the most common causes. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and builds pressure until the pipe splits, often in unheated spaces like crawl spaces, attics, garages, and exterior walls. Other causes include corrosion in older pipes, high water pressure, shifting soil, tree roots, and clogs that build up pressure over time.
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           How Can I Tell If I Have a Hidden Burst Pipe?
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           Not every burst pipe is obvious. Warning signs include a sudden drop in water pressure, the sound of running water when all fixtures are off, water stains or bulging on walls and ceilings, puddles with no clear source, musty odors, and an unusually high water bill. If you notice any of these, shut off your water and call a plumber.
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           How Can I Prevent Pipes From Bursting?
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           Insulate pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, attics, and garages. During cold snaps, keep your home heated, open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls, and let faucets drip slowly to keep water moving. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor spigots before winter. If you're leaving home for an extended time, consider shutting off your main water supply. A plumber can also check your water pressure and inspect older pipes for signs of wear.
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           Emergency Plumbing in Southern Maryland
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           A burst pipe can't wait. Tri-County Aire offers 24/7 emergency service to help Southern Maryland homeowners stop the damage and get their plumbing repaired quickly and correctly. If a pipe has burst in your home, shut off your water and call us right away at
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            800-890-5123
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           .
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           Frequently Asked Questions
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      <pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 2026 21:27:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.tricountyaire.com/what-should-i-do-when-a-pipe-bursts</guid>
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      <title>What to Know Before Replacing Your HVAC System</title>
      <link>https://www.tricountyaire.com/what-to-know-before-replacing-your-hvac-system</link>
      <description>Thinking about a new heating and cooling system? Learn what affects cost, sizing, efficiency, and financing before you replace your HVAC system in SoMd.</description>
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            What to Know Before Replacing
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           Your HVAC System
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           A new heating and cooling system is one of the biggest investments you'll make in your home, and it's one you'll live with for the next 15 years or more. Whether your current system is failing or you're planning ahead, knowing what drives cost, comfort, and efficiency will help you make a confident decision.
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           How Do I Know It's Time to Replace My HVAC System?
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           Most heat pumps and air conditioners last about 10 to 15 years, and gas furnaces often last 15 to 20. Replacement usually makes sense when your system is nearing the end of that range and needs frequent repairs, when a major component like the compressor fails, or when your energy bills keep climbing without explanation. Uneven temperatures from room to room, excess humidity, and a system that runs constantly without keeping up are also signs your equipment is struggling.
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           A helpful rule of thumb: if a repair costs more than a third of the price of a new system, and your equipment is more than 10 years old, replacement is usually the better long-term value.
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           Why Does Proper Sizing Matter So Much?
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           Bigger isn't better. An oversized system cools your home quickly but shuts off before it removes enough humidity, leaving the air feeling damp and clammy. That's a real concern in Southern Maryland summers. It also cycles on and off more often, which wears out parts faster. An undersized system runs constantly and struggles on the hottest and coldest days.
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           The right size comes from a load calculation (often called a Manual J), which accounts for your home's square footage, insulation, windows, orientation, and air leakage. Be cautious of any quote that simply matches the size of your old unit without measuring your home.
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           Should I Choose a Heat Pump, a Furnace, or Both?
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           Heat pumps are a popular choice in Southern Maryland because our winters are relatively mild. They heat and cool with one system, and today's models perform well in colder temperatures than older heat pumps could. Homes with natural gas or propane may benefit from a dual-fuel system, which pairs a heat pump with a furnace that takes over during the coldest stretches. The best option depends on your fuel availability, your home's layout, and your comfort priorities.
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           What Do SEER2 and HSPF2 Ratings Mean?
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           SEER2 measures cooling efficiency, and HSPF2 measures heating efficiency for heat pumps. Higher numbers mean lower operating costs. A higher-efficiency system costs more upfront but can save money every month, especially if you plan to stay in your home for many years. Variable-speed and two-stage systems also improve comfort by running more steadily and controlling humidity better.
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           Do I Need to Replace My Ductwork Too?
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           Not always, but your ductwork should be inspected. Leaky, crushed, or poorly sized ducts can waste a significant portion of the air your system produces, and a new high-efficiency system can't perform as rated if the ducts can't deliver the air. Sealing, repairing, or resizing ducts at the time of replacement is often more cost-effective than doing it later.
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           Should I Replace the Indoor and Outdoor Units Together?
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           In most cases, yes. Heat pumps and air conditioners are designed to work as matched systems, and mixing a new outdoor unit with an old indoor coil can reduce efficiency, shorten the life of the equipment, and affect your warranty. Newer systems also use updated refrigerants, which are generally not compatible with older equipment.
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           Are There Rebates or Incentives Available?
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           Rebates and incentives change often, so check what's available before you buy. Maryland homeowners may qualify for utility rebates on qualifying high-efficiency equipment through their electric provider's energy efficiency programs. Ask your HVAC contractor which programs apply to the equipment you're considering, and check with a tax professional about any current tax credits.
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           What Should a Good Replacement Quote Include?
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           A quality quote should spell out the exact equipment model numbers, efficiency ratings, and what's included in the installation, such as a new thermostat, line set, pad, drain line, electrical work, permits, and removal of the old equipment. It should also explain the manufacturer's warranty, any labor warranty from the installer, and whether the equipment needs to be registered to get the full warranty coverage. Comparing quotes line by line helps you see real differences in value, not just price.
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           How Can I Pay for a New HVAC System?
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           A new system is a significant expense, especially when it comes unexpectedly. Many HVAC contractors offer financing that lets you spread the cost over time, so you can choose the right system for your home instead of the cheapest one available. Ask about financing terms, qualification requirements, and any promotional offers when you request a quote.
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           Why Does the Installer Matter as Much as the Equipment?
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           Even the best equipment will underperform if it's installed poorly. Proper refrigerant charge, airflow settings, duct connections, and drainage all affect how well your system runs and how long it lasts. Choose a licensed, experienced local contractor who will pull the required permits, stand behind the work, and be available for service down the road.
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           HVAC Replacement in Southern Maryland
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           Tri-County Aire helps Southern Maryland homeowners choose the right heating and cooling system for their home, their comfort, and their budget. We proudly install Trane heating and cooling systems, known for their reliability and efficiency, and we offer special financing options for qualified homeowners. We'll assess your home, explain your options clearly, and install your new system the right way.
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            Call Tri-County Aire at
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        &lt;a href="tel:8008905123"&gt;&#xD;
          
             800-890-5123
            &#xD;
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           to schedule an HVAC replacement consultation and ask about current financing offers.
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           Frequently Asked Questions
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            ﻿
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      <pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 2026 17:21:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.tricountyaire.com/what-to-know-before-replacing-your-hvac-system</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">HVAC</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>What to Do When Your Heat Pump Is Flooded</title>
      <link>https://www.tricountyaire.com/what-to-do-when-your-heat-pump-is-flooded</link>
      <description>Heat pump underwater after a storm? Here's what to do right away, what not to do, and when to call Tri-County Aire for a safety inspection in Southern Maryland.</description>
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           What to Do When
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           Your Heat Pump Is Flooded
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/8d8b4f85/dms3rep/multi/flooded+heat+pumo.webp" alt="Flooded outdoor utility equipment beside a brick building, surrounded by standing water and debris."/&gt;&#xD;
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           Southern Maryland gets its share of tropical storms, nor'easters, and heavy downpours, and homes near the Patuxent, the Potomac, and the Chesapeake Bay are especially prone to standing water. When floodwater reaches your heat pump, how you handle the first few hours can make the difference between a repair and a full replacement.
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           Is a Flooded Heat Pump Safe to Turn On?
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           No. If floodwater has reached your heat pump's electrical components, do not turn it on until a licensed HVAC technician has inspected it. Outdoor heat pumps are built to handle rain, but they are not designed to be submerged. Water that rises above the base of the unit can reach the compressor, fan motor, control board, wiring, and electrical connections. Powering up a unit in that condition risks electrical shock, fire, and permanent damage to the system.
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           What Should I Do Right Away?
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           1. Shut off power to the system
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           Turn off the heat pump at the thermostat, then switch off its breaker at your electrical panel. If you can reach the outdoor disconnect box safely without standing in water, turn that off too. Never touch electrical equipment while you are standing in water or while the equipment is still wet.
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           2. Stay clear until the water recedes
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           Floodwater can hide debris, carry contaminants, and conduct electricity. Wait until the water has fully drained before approaching the outdoor unit or an indoor air handler in a flooded basement or crawl space.
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           3. Document the damage
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           Take photos and video of the unit, the high-water mark, and the surrounding area. Note the date and how long the equipment sat in water. This record helps with insurance claims and helps your technician assess what was affected.
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           4. Check your insurance coverage
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           Standard homeowners policies typically do not cover flood damage, while flood insurance (including National Flood Insurance Program policies) may cover HVAC equipment. Contact your insurer early, and ask whether they need an inspection report before repairs begin.
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           5. Schedule a professional inspection
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           A technician will check the electrical components, control board, compressor, fan motor, refrigerant lines, and coils for water damage, corrosion, and contamination. They will also look at the ductwork if your indoor unit or ducts were affected, since flooded ducts can hold mold and bacteria.
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           How High Does Water Have to Get to Damage a Heat Pump?
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           Any water that rises above the unit's base pan and reaches internal components is a concern. Brief exposure may only require cleaning and drying, but saltwater or brackish water from tidal flooding is far more corrosive and often causes damage that shows up weeks or months later. That's why an inspection matters even when the system seems to run normally afterward.
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           Can a Flooded Heat Pump Be Repaired, or Does It Need to Be Replaced?
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           It depends on how deep the water got, how long the unit was submerged, and whether the water was fresh or salty. Some units can be dried, cleaned, and returned to service with a few replaced parts. Others, especially those with a water-damaged compressor or significant corrosion, cost more to repair than to replace. A qualified technician can walk you through both options so you can make the right decision for your home and budget.
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           What About the Indoor Unit and Ductwork?
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           If floodwater reached your basement, crawl space, or garage, your air handler, furnace, or ductwork may also be affected. Flooded ductwork can harbor mold, mildew, and bacteria that circulate through your home once the system runs again. Insulated flex duct usually needs to be replaced after flooding, while metal ducts may be cleaned and sanitized depending on the level of contamination.
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           How Can I Protect My Heat Pump From Future Flooding?
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           If your property floods more than once, consider elevating the outdoor unit on a raised pad or mounting platform above the expected flood level. Improving yard drainage and grading around the unit helps direct water away from it. For indoor equipment in flood-prone basements, relocating the air handler to a higher level of the home may be worth discussing with your HVAC contractor.
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           Heat Pump Flood Damage Inspection in Southern Maryland
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           Tri-County Aire has served homeowners across Southern Maryland for years, and our technicians know what storm and flood damage can do to heating and cooling equipment. If your heat pump has been exposed to floodwater, leave it off and give us a call. We'll inspect your system, explain what we find, and help you get your home comfortable again safely.
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      &lt;b&gt;&#xD;
        
            Call Tri-County Aire at
            &#xD;
        &lt;a href="tel:8008905123"&gt;&#xD;
          
             800-890-5123
            &#xD;
        &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/b&gt;&#xD;
      
           to schedule a flood damage inspection.
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           Frequently Asked Questions
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      <pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 2026 16:27:08 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.tricountyaire.com/what-to-do-when-your-heat-pump-is-flooded</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">HVAC</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>Why Does My Sump Pump Keep Running?</title>
      <link>https://www.tricountyaire.com/why-does-my-sump-pump-keep-running</link>
      <description>Sump pump running nonstop? Learn the common causes, what you can check yourself, and when to call Tri-County Aire for sump pump repair in Southern Maryland.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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            Why Does My Sump Pump Keep Running?
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/8d8b4f85/dms3rep/multi/running+sump+pump-cfed77d6.webp" alt="Infographic of sump pump problems causing it to run constantly in a basement."/&gt;&#xD;
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           A sump pump is your basement's first line of defense against water, and during a heavy storm it's normal to hear it cycle on and off often. But if your sump pump runs constantly, runs when it hasn't rained, or turns on and off every few seconds, something may be wrong. A pump that never gets a break can burn out early, often right when you need it most.
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           Is It Normal for a Sump Pump to Run Constantly?
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           Sometimes. During and after heavy rain, snowmelt, or a tropical storm, groundwater can flow into the sump pit faster than usual, and your pump may run almost nonstop until the ground drains. Homes near the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers, or in low-lying areas with a high water table, may see their pumps run frequently for days after a storm.
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           If your pump keeps running during dry weather, or runs even when the pit is empty, that's a sign of a problem that needs attention.
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           What Causes a Sump Pump to Keep Running?
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           A stuck or tangled float switch
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           The float switch tells the pump when to turn on and off. If it gets stuck in the "on" position, tangled on the power cord, or blocked by debris or the side of the pit, the pump may keep running after the water is gone.
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           A failed check valve
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           The check valve keeps water in the discharge pipe from flowing back into the pit after the pump shuts off. If it fails, the same water drains back down, the pit refills, and the pump runs again, over and over.
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           The pump is the wrong size
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           An undersized pump can't keep up with the water coming in, so it runs continuously. An oversized pump in a small pit empties it too quickly and short-cycles, turning on and off rapidly and wearing out its motor.
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           A frozen or clogged discharge line
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           If the discharge line is blocked by ice, dirt, or debris, water can't leave the pit. The pump keeps running without actually moving water, which can overheat and damage the motor.
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           An air lock in the pump
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           Air trapped in the pump housing can keep it from pushing water out, even though the motor is running. A small relief hole between the pump and the check valve usually prevents this, and a missing or clogged one can cause the problem.
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           Water coming from somewhere else
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           Poor yard grading, clogged gutters, downspouts that drain too close to the foundation, or even a leaking water line can send extra water into your sump pit and keep your pump busy.
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           What Can I Check Myself?
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           Start by looking into the sump pit. If there's no water and the pump is running, the float switch is the most likely culprit. Make sure it moves freely and isn't caught on anything. If the pit refills right after the pump shuts off, the check valve may be failing. Outside, check that the discharge line isn't blocked, frozen, or crushed, and that gutters and downspouts are directing water well away from your foundation.
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           Always unplug the pump before reaching into the pit, and never stand in water while handling electrical equipment.
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           When Should I Call a Plumber?
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           Call a professional if the pump runs constantly with no clear cause, cycles on and off rapidly, makes grinding or rattling noises, or if you see water rising in the pit while the pump is running. You should also call if your pump is more than seven to 10 years old, since older pumps are more likely to fail during a storm. A plumber can test the pump, replace worn parts, correct sizing problems, and make sure the discharge line and check valve are working properly.
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           Should I Add a Backup Sump Pump?
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           A backup pump is worth considering, especially if your basement is finished or you've had water problems before. Battery backup pumps keep working during power outages, which often happen during the same storms that send the most water into your pit. A backup also protects you if your primary pump fails.
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           How Can I Keep My Sump Pump Working Properly?
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           Test your pump a few times a year by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and making sure it turns on, empties the pit, and shuts off. Clean debris out of the pit, check that the float moves freely, and make sure the discharge line is clear, especially before storm season and winter. A yearly inspection by a plumber can catch worn parts before they fail.
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           If floodwater has already reached your home, see our guide on
           &#xD;
      &lt;a href="/what-to-do-when-your-heat-pump-is-flooded"&gt;&#xD;
        
            what to do when your heat pump is flooded
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           .
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           Sump Pump Repair in Southern Maryland
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           Tri-County Aire's licensed plumbers help Southern Maryland homeowners with plumbing problems of all kinds. If you have questions about your sump pump or other plumbing concerns, give us a call at 800-890-5123.
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           Frequently Asked Questions
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      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2026 18:58:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.tricountyaire.com/why-does-my-sump-pump-keep-running</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Plumbing</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>Plumbing in Southern Maryland: What Every Homeowner Should Know</title>
      <link>https://www.tricountyaire.com/plumbing-in-southern-maryland-what-every-homeowner-should-know</link>
      <description>Well and septic systems, aging pipes, &amp; coastal factors make plumbing in Southern Maryland unique. Learn what to expect &amp; how to choose a trusted local plumber.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           Southern Maryland offers a distinctive way of life — Chesapeake Bay shoreline in Calvert County, historic character throughout St. Mary's, and steadily growing communities in Charles County. That same setting brings some plumbing challenges that look different from what you'd find in a typical suburb, and knowing what to expect helps protect your home and your budget.
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           Common Plumbing Issues in Southern Maryland
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            Well and septic systems.
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           A large share of homes here run on private wells and septic rather than municipal water and sewer. That means well pump service, pressure tank adjustments, water quality testing for hardness or sediment, and septic care all require plumbers who know these systems specifically.
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            Aging infrastructure.
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           Many of the area's older homes still have original galvanized steel or cast iron piping, which is prone to corrosion, leaks, low water pressure, and eventual failure.
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            Coastal and environmental factors.
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           Proximity to the Bay and its tributaries can mean higher water tables and specific regulations that affect plumbing installations, repairs, and septic requirements.
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            Seasonal extremes.
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           Winter freezes put pipes at risk, especially in crawl spaces or poorly insulated areas, while summer humidity can worsen moisture problems from minor leaks.
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           Plumbing Services Tri-County Aire Provides
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            Emergency plumbing
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           — rapid response for burst pipes, sewage backups, and major leaks
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            Well system services
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           — well pump and pressure tank diagnosis, repair, and replacement, plus water testing and treatment
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            Septic and sewer line services
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           — drain cleaning, main line clog removal, and camera-inspected sewer line repair
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            Leak detection and repair
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           — including hidden leaks behind walls or underground
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            Water heater installation and repair
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           — tank-style and tankless
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            Pipe repair and repiping
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           — from single-section fixes to whole-house repiping in older homes
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            Fixture installation and repair
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           — toilets, sinks, faucets, showers, garbage disposals, outdoor hose bibs
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            Preventative maintenance
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           — inspections to catch problems before they become emergencies
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           Choosing a Plumber in Southern Maryland
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           Look for a current Maryland Master Plumber/Gas Fitter license and proper liability and worker's comp insurance. Local experience matters too — a company that understands well and septic systems, coastal conditions, and the region's older housing stock will spot things a general contractor might miss. Ask for a clear written estimate up front, and confirm response times, especially if you're in a more rural part of the service area.
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           Protect Your Investment
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           Plumbing problems rarely stay small. Catching issues early — a slow leak, a struggling well pump, an aging section of pipe — saves money and protects your home's value down the road.
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           Need a plumber who knows Southern Maryland? Call Tri-County Aire at
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      &lt;b&gt;&#xD;
        
            800-890-5123
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           .
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&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2026 20:11:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.tricountyaire.com/plumbing-in-southern-maryland-what-every-homeowner-should-know</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Plumbing</g-custom:tags>
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    <item>
      <title>How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Hurricane Season</title>
      <link>https://www.tricountyaire.com/how-to-prepare-your-hvac-system-for-hurricane-season</link>
      <description>Protect your heat pump or AC from storm damage. Learn how to prepare your HVAC system before a hurricane and what to check after, from Tri-County Aire in So Md.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
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           How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Hurricane Season
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  &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/8d8b4f85/dms3rep/multi/prep+hvac+hurrican-5e61974e.webp" alt="Infographic on hurricane prep for HVAC units, showing shielding, securing outdoor units, drainage, and generator use."/&gt;&#xD;
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           Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and Southern Maryland feels its effects every year, from tropical storms and heavy rain to high winds, tidal flooding, and power outages. Your outdoor heat pump or air conditioner sits exposed to all of it. A little preparation before a storm can protect your system, prevent costly repairs, and help you get your home comfortable again faster once the weather clears.
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           When Should I Start Preparing My HVAC System for Hurricane Season?
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           Early summer is the best time, before storms start forming. Scheduling a professional tune-up in late spring or early summer ensures your system is running well going into the hottest months, and it gives a technician the chance to spot loose panels, worn electrical parts, or drainage problems that a storm could make worse. If a storm is already in the forecast, there are still steps you can take in the days before it arrives.
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           How Do I Protect My Outdoor Unit From High Winds?
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           Start by clearing the area around your outdoor unit. Bring in or tie down patio furniture, grills, planters, toys, and anything else that could be blown into it. Trim trees and branches that hang over or near the unit, since falling limbs are one of the most common causes of storm damage to HVAC equipment.
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           Next, make sure the unit itself is secure. In areas exposed to strong winds, outdoor units can be anchored to their pad with hurricane straps or tie-down brackets. Check that the pad is level and stable, and ask your HVAC technician whether your unit is properly secured.
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           Should I Cover My Outdoor Unit Before a Storm?
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           A breathable cover or tarp can help keep debris out of the unit during a storm, but only while the system is turned off. Never run your heat pump or air conditioner with a cover on it, since it blocks airflow and can seriously damage the system. Remove the cover as soon as the storm passes and before turning the system back on.
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           Should I Turn Off My HVAC System During a Hurricane?
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           Yes. Before the storm arrives, set your thermostat a few degrees cooler than usual to pre-cool your home and bring down indoor humidity. Then, when the storm reaches your area, turn off the system at the thermostat and switch off its breaker. Power surges and flickering power during a storm can damage your compressor and electrical components, and turning the system off helps protect it.
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           Know where your electrical panel and outdoor disconnect box are before the storm, so you can shut the system off quickly and safely.
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           Is My HVAC System at Risk of Flooding?
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           If your home is in a low-lying area or near the water, your outdoor unit could be exposed to floodwater. For homes that flood regularly, raising the outdoor unit on an elevated pad or platform above the expected flood level is one of the best long-term protections. Keeping gutters, downspouts, and yard drains clear also helps move water away from your unit and foundation.
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           If floodwater does reach your system, don't turn it back on. See our guide on
           &#xD;
      &lt;a href="/what-to-do-when-your-heat-pump-is-flooded"&gt;&#xD;
        
            what to do when your heat pump is flooded
           &#xD;
      &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
      
           .
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    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
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           Can I Run My HVAC System on a Generator?
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           It depends on the generator. Most portable generators aren't large enough to run a central heat pump or air conditioner, and connecting one improperly can damage your equipment and create serious safety hazards, including backfeeding power into utility lines. A properly sized standby generator installed by a licensed professional can power your HVAC system during an outage.
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           Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows, doors, or air intakes, since carbon monoxide can quickly build up to deadly levels.
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           What Should I Check After the Storm Passes?
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           Before turning your system back on, walk around your outdoor unit and look for damage. Check for debris inside or on top of the unit, bent or crushed fins, a shifted or tilted unit, damaged refrigerant lines, and loose or exposed wiring. Remove any cover you placed on the unit, and clear away branches, leaves, and debris.
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           Wait until power has been fully and reliably restored before turning the system on. If you see any damage, smell burning, hear unusual noises once it's running, or if the unit was exposed to floodwater, turn it off and call an HVAC professional.
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  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
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           Why Does Indoor Humidity Matter After a Hurricane?
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           After a storm, especially one that caused a power outage or water intrusion, humidity inside your home can climb quickly. High humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth within a day or two. Getting your HVAC system back up and running safely helps dry out the air and protect your home. If your ductwork or indoor unit was exposed to water, have it inspected before running the system.
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  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
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           Hurricane Season HVAC Service in Southern Maryland
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           Tri-County Aire helps Southern Maryland homeowners prepare their heating and cooling systems for storm season and get back up and running afterward. We offer pre-season tune-ups to make sure your system is ready and post-storm inspections to check for damage before you turn it back on.
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           Call Tri-County Aire at
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    &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="tel:8008905123" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;strong&gt;&#xD;
        
            800-890-5123
           &#xD;
      &lt;/strong&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
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             to schedule a tune-up or storm damage inspection.
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           Browse more articles:
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           HVAC Articles | HVAC Articles
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           Frequently Asked Questions
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&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/8d8b4f85/dms3rep/multi/pexels-photo-39264566.jpeg" length="141396" type="image/jpeg" />
      <pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2026 19:52:43 GMT</pubDate>
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