Recent Posts

Septic System vs Rain

3/6/2024 (Permalink)

Homeowner getting their septic tank pumped out Septic tank being pumped out due to overflow

Our region has experienced more rain over the past few weeks than we might see in an entire summer season. Winter is unpredictable and the added rain we have experienced is well over the norm. The over saturated ground may have taken a toll on your septic system, but there will be signs so make sure you are being proactive to avoid sewer backup inside your home.

  • Do you have standing water over your septic?
  • Do you smell sewage in your yard?
  • Do your pipes make unusual sounds when you flush the toilet?
  • Do you see sewage backup in your bathtubs or sinks?

If you should experience any of the above occurrences, you need to call a plumber to have your lines checked – it could be a full septic tank or a clogged drain line. Having your lines inspected can save you the inconvenience of having a major sewer backup inside your home.

Spring is Near!

2/29/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO tech cleaning a chair in Newberry Our team getting this home Spring Clean!

Winter is almost behind us, only a couple more weeks and we can all officially kick off Spring Season!  Longer and warmer days are ahead so why not get a kick start on your spring cleaning?

SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties is ready and available for all your spring cleaning needs, from the carpet to the ceiling and all that in between we can get your home Spring Clean.

We realize that your carpets can take a beating in the wintertime, especially with all the holiday gatherings and the dirt and grime that winter alone can bring into your home. Winter is a dreary time of year anyway so when Spring arrives let SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties brighten your home and let our team handle the dirty work Winter has left you!

Rainwater Damage

2/19/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying units drying out a water damaged floor Water Damage Dry out after flood water runoff entered a home in Chappells, SC

Heavy Rains across our area over the past few months has taken its toll on many homeowners. Rainwater can cause septic issues, soil erosion and foundation issues to your home. Evan a small leak can cause a significant amount of water to enter your home and cause major damage especially the lower levels.  This family in Chappells, SC experienced it firsthand when rainwater damage entered the downstairs area of their home causing severe flooding. SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties was onsite quickly to access the damage – extracting the water and removed the flooring to start the drying process quickly to get this home back in order.  If you should experience water damage, give us a call – we are here to help you no matter how severe the damage may be,  you are not alone!

February Is Heart Month

2/6/2024 (Permalink)

Hand holding a white heart February is American Heart Month!

February is celebrated with hearts and love, but its also American Heart Month. This year the American Heart Association is celebrating its Centennial 100 years of lifesaving work. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and increasing knowledge about how to prevent it from happening to you.

Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but it can be prevented if you take action to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Eat a healthy diet, enjoy foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids – Fish is the best natural source. Incorporating fiber in your diet helps reduce cholesterol levels. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most powerful defenses against heart disease. Get regular exercise – studies show that exercise also helps manage your stress level, which is a two for one deal! Ditch the unhealthy habits - Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are key risk factors in heart disease.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting regular check-ups from your doctor will help you live a long, loving healthy life! You have the power to take the proper action to protect yourself against heart disease.

Winter Rains and Your Septic System

1/11/2024 (Permalink)

Truck pumping out a septic tank Homeowner having their septic tank pumped.

It is well known that our area has seen more rain over the past couple of weeks than most see in months. Heavy rains, severe storms have covered our area. With that, flash flooding has been put a toll on homeowners with a septic system. If you have an older system, the strain from the rain has put your system is even more stressful.

Most septic systems are designed to manage substantial amounts of rain, heavy downpours in a small amount of time can overwork our septic and cause overflow. If your septic is not regularly maintained can cause damage and long-term problems.

  • Schedule Regular Maintenance – Regular inspections and having your system regularly pumped by a professional will catch potential issues before they arise.
  • Drain usage – There are distinct items that should not be flushed down your drain. Avoid grease, fats, excessive food products and chemicals down your drain.

SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties cannot predict the weather or stop the rain from falling but we will be here for you if you experience water damage or a septic overflow in your home! We got you covered!

Prepare your Pipes

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe that has burst Busted pipe after a winter freeze

Winter temperatures are unpredictable in the South – one day it’s warm and you’re washing your car, but 24 hours later you could be dealing with freezing temperatures. Making sure you are being proactive when it comes to freezing pipes can save you from water damage when the temperatures change quickly.

  • Allow your water to drip from your faucets during extreme cold temperatures.
  • Make sure you unhook all water lines during the winter months.
  • Insulate pipes in unheated areas of your home.
  • Open cabinets where water lines are located inside your home to warm your pipes.
  • Keep your thermostat above 55 degrees.
  • Make sure you know where your shut off valve is located in the event of an emergency.
  • Utilize heat tape or heat cables and seal any leaks you may have.

Water damage can cause extensive damage no matter what season- being prepared is your first line of protection.

Space Heaters - are you safe from a fire?

12/22/2023 (Permalink)

Space Heater warming a home Space heaters can assist in heating colder areas of your home.

As the temperature is beginning to fall below freezing, you may want to resort to an additional heating source for some areas of your home that may be hard to keep warm.  Space heaters are often the source of that additional heat so make sure you are following all safety precautions when using a space heater in your home.

  • Place the heater at least 3 feet away from furniture, bedding and curtains.
  • Never leave the space heater unattended especially around small children and pets
  • Keep heaters out of high traffic areas of your home.
  • Plug heaters directly into electrical outlets (DO NOT use an extension cord)
  • Heaters should be placed on a level – flat surface (never place on carpet)
  • Unplug your space heater when not in use.

SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties will be here no matter what you may experience. Be safe and enjoy this special time with family and friends.

Merry Christmas!

Is Your Christmas Tree Fire Safe?

12/11/2023 (Permalink)

Decorated Christmas Tree Keep your tree fire safe this Christmas Season.

Getting in the Christmas Cheer is all around us as many homes have already started decorating for the Christmas holiday. If you are choosing a live tree for your home, a fresh will stay greener longer – check the needles to make sure they do not fall off if touched and the trunk of the tree should be sticky. Before standing your tree – cut about two inches off the bottom of the trunk so your tree can better absorb water. Check your water levels daily, especially if you have animals in the house. Just remember the scene from Christmas Vacation, you do not want that to happen! If your tree is in a warmer room in your home your tree will dry out quicker and could cause a fire hazard – so turn your thermostat down a few degrees to preserve your tree longer. Never place your tree near fireplaces or other heat sources. These safety tips are the same for an artificial tree – never purchase and artificial tree that is not fire resistant. Practice safety this holiday season.

Christmas Times a Coming

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Decorated Christmas tree Use safety when decorating your Christmas Tree

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas – family- festivities and fun will fill this month. It’s a special time of the year; our homes are decorated to celebrate the holiday season with lights and candles.  During the holidays there is a greater risk of a fire in your home. Make sure safety is a part of your holiday plans.

  • Check all light cords to ensure that they aren’t frayed or broken. Connect only three strands per extension cord.
  • When installing outdoor lights make sure they are for outdoor use.
  • Trees – if you are using a live tree make sure it’s fresh and keep it watered throughout the season, if you are using an artificial tree make sure the label reads fire- resistant. Always keep your tree away from fireplaces, radiators and all other heat sources.
  • Test your smoke detectors on each level of your home.

Enjoy this holiday season and know SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties will be here for you!

Cooking Safety

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving Turkeys Cooking the perfect Turkey safely!

As we embark on the Holiday Season when most are in the kitchen cooking for their families for the Thanksgiving Holiday – be sure to remember these top cooking safety tips to avoid a house fire and a trip to your local restaurant for your holiday meal.

  • Never leave the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove top.
  • Do not leave your Turkey unattended – even if your stove is on low.
  • Keep the kids out of the cooking zone.
  • If you are deep frying your Turkey – do that outside away from your home.
  • Do not wear loose clothing – finish your cooking and change into your festive outfit prior to dinner.
  • Test your smoke alarms to assure they are in the proper working condition.
  • Turn your pot handles towards the back to avoid a turnover.

Following these tips can and will prevent a house fire. Enjoy your holiday with family and friends and rest assure SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties will be here if you need us! 

Happy Thanksgiving!