Sump Pump Selection: What Size, Type & Backup System Do You Need?

Winter Power Outage & Home Safety Preparedness Every Homeowner Should Know

Winter in southwestern Pennsylvania can bring more than just cold temperatures — it can bring snowstorms, ice, and the very real possibility of power outages. When the lights go out and temperatures drop, being prepared isn’t just convenient… it’s essential for safety, comfort, and protecting your home.

Here’s a practical guide to help you prepare your home and family for winter power interruptions — based on real inspection experience and common issues we see in homes throughout Cambria, Somerset, Westmoreland, Blair, Indiana, and Bedford Counties.

1) Know Your Home’s Electrical System

Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your power distribution.

• Label circuits clearly. Knowing what breaker controls what can save time and stress during an outage.

• Inspect panel condition. Loose connections and corrosion are fire hazards and more likely to show issues when systems start under load after outages.

Pro Tip: If you notice flickering lights, warm breakers, or rust at the panel, have a licensed electrician evaluate it before winter’s peak.

2) Plan Safe Backup Power

Whether it’s a portable generator or a whole-home standby system, backup power can provide peace of mind — when used safely.

Portable Generators

• Never operate indoors or in garages — deadly carbon monoxide can accumulate.

• Use heavy-duty outdoor extension cords to power appliances.

• Keep fuel stored in approved containers, away from heat sources.

Standby Generators

• Installed by a professional.

• Automatically switch on when power fails.

• Must have a transfer switch to isolate from utility lines and prevent backfeed.

Pro Tip: Test your backup power before you need it — snowstorms aren’t the time to discover dead batteries or low fuel.

3) Winter Emergency Supply Checklist

A short power outage can become an emergency without proper supplies.

✔ Flashlights and extra batteries

✔ Portable battery chargers for phones

✔ Non-perishable food and bottled water

✔ Blankets, warm clothing, hats/gloves

✔ First-aid kit and medications

✔ Battery-powered radio or NOAA weather alert radio

Pro Tip: Keep supplies in a central, easy-to-reach location and refresh them each season.

4) Stay Warm Without Electric Heat

If the furnace won’t run, make a plan.

• Fireplace or wood stove: Ensure the chimney is clean and damper works.

• Kerosene or propane heaters: Only use outdoor-rated units with proper ventilation.

• Layering: Insulate yourself before heating the space — extra blankets, warm socks, and hats make a huge difference.

Never use a gas oven or stovetop as a heat source — this can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.

5) Protect Plumbing During Outages

Loss of heat plus cold nights can freeze pipes quickly.

• Let faucets drip slightly during extended outages.

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate.

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements and crawlspaces.

Pro Tip: Know where your main water shut-off valve is — if a pipe bursts, shutting off water limits damage.

6) Roof & Structural Snow Load Awareness

Heavy, wet snow can add serious weight to roofs.

• Visually inspect roofline for sagging or uneven snow build-up.

• Use a roof rake from the ground to remove excess snow (never climb on icy roofs).

• Look for ice build-up near eaves which can lead to ice dams and water intrusion.

** Pro Tip:** If snow accumulation is significant after an outage or storm, call a professional before it becomes a structural problem.

Final Thoughts

Winter power outages are unpredictable, but your home and family don’t have to be unprepared. With a plan, proper supplies, and safety-focused practices, you’ll stay safer and more comfortable when Mother Nature tests your preparedness.

If you’d like a professional home evaluation that includes electrical system readiness, emergency power considerations, and winter safety insights, Hill Property Inspections can help. Our certified inspectors use infrared imaging and system checks to uncover hidden issues before they become emergencies.

Schedule your winter-ready inspection today:

📞 1-833-HILL-PRO

🌐 http://www.hillinspections.com

Hill Property Inspections, LLC is a full-service residential and commercial inspection firm based in the greater Johnstown, PA area, helping homeowners protect their investments through education and professional service.

Heat Pump vs Furnace vs Hybrid Systems: What’s Best in Cold Climates?

As energy costs rise and technology advances, more homeowners in Pennsylvania are asking whether it makes sense to replace their traditional furnace with a heat pump — or to combine both in a hybrid system.

While all three heating methods can keep your home comfortable, they each perform differently depending on temperature, insulation, and utility rates. Here’s what Hill Property Inspections recommends you understand before making your next heating investment.

1. The Basics: How Each System Works

Furnace (Gas or Oil)

Burns fuel to generate heat, which is distributed through ducts. Common in older and rural homes. Provides steady warmth even in subzero weather.

Heat Pump (Electric)

Transfers heat instead of creating it. In heating mode, it pulls warmth from outside air and moves it indoors. Functions as both a heater and air conditioner. Efficiency drops as outdoor temperatures fall — but modern “cold climate” models perform better than ever.

Hybrid (Dual-Fuel System)

Combines a heat pump with a backup gas furnace. Automatically switches between electric and gas depending on outdoor temperature or utility rates. Offers flexibility and improved efficiency in variable climates like western Pennsylvania.

2. Energy Efficiency & Operating Costs

Energy efficiency is measured by AFUE (for furnaces) and HSPF / SEER (for heat pumps).

A modern gas furnace achieves 90–98% AFUE, meaning almost all fuel becomes heat. A quality cold-climate heat pump can reach 300% efficiency — producing three units of heat for every one unit of electricity consumed. Hybrid systems maximize both: they use the heat pump during moderate weather and switch to gas only when it’s truly cold.

Pro Tip: If your electricity rate is low and your home has good insulation, a heat pump can significantly reduce overall energy costs.

3. Performance in Pennsylvania’s Climate

Western and central Pennsylvania winters are often cold, wet, and unpredictable — meaning performance varies by location and home type.

Heat Pumps: Ideal for regions where winter lows stay above 0°F. Modern inverter-driven units can still produce heat down to -10°F, though efficiency declines.

Furnaces: Best for drafty or older homes with limited insulation. They provide consistent heat output regardless of outdoor temperature.

Hybrid Systems: Perfect for areas like Johnstown, Windber, or Somerset where temperatures fluctuate. The system automatically selects the most economical and reliable heat source.

4. Comfort Considerations

Air Temperature: Furnaces deliver hotter air (~120°F) than heat pumps (~95°F), so furnace heat feels warmer but may cycle more abruptly.

Humidity: Heat pumps maintain more consistent indoor humidity and can improve comfort during dry winters.

Noise: Subtle hum outdoors from heat pump compressor; gas furnaces are typically quieter inside.

Zoning Compatibility: Both systems can be integrated with zoning dampers or smart thermostats for better control.

5. Installation and Maintenance Costs

In Pennsylvania’s market, a gas furnace typically costs between $4,000 and $7,000 to install. Furnaces tend to have long lifespans of around 20 years and benefit from relatively inexpensive natural gas in most areas. A heat pump installation generally ranges from $5,000 to $9,000, with higher upfront costs but lower ongoing energy use. For those seeking maximum efficiency, hybrid systems—which combine both—usually range from $8,000 to $12,000, reflecting their dual equipment setup but also their ability to minimize energy costs long-term.

Maintenance requirements also differ. Heat pumps require regular coil cleaning and refrigerant checks to maintain performance. Furnaces should be serviced annually, including burner cleaning and a safety inspection. Hybrid systems require both types of maintenance but provide the advantage of redundancy — if one component fails, the other can continue heating the home.

6. Environmental & Future-Proofing Factors

Heat Pumps: Reduce fossil fuel use and carbon emissions; often eligible for federal tax credits and rebates.

Gas Furnaces: Depend on fuel prices and may see regulatory changes in the coming decade.

Hybrid Systems: Offer a balanced transition strategy — using renewable electricity when possible but maintaining gas reliability.

Pro Tip: For investors and property managers, hybrid systems can improve resale value by appealing to both eco-conscious and traditional buyers.

Final Thoughts

No single system fits every property. The right solution depends on your building’s insulation, budget, and energy goals.

If you’re considering an upgrade or unsure how your current heating system is performing, Hill Property Inspections can evaluate furnace safety, duct efficiency, and overall heating performance as part of a full home or commercial inspection.

We can also use thermal imaging to reveal air leakage, duct losses, and temperature imbalances — helping you make an informed, cost-effective decision before or during winter.

Schedule your heating system evaluation today:

📞 1-833-HILL-PRO

🌐 www.hillinspections.com

Hill Property Inspections, LLC is a full-service residential and commercial inspection firm based in the Johnstown, PA area.

Carbon Monoxide Risks: How It Enters Homes & What to Inspect For

Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the invisible killer for a reason — it’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless, yet responsible for hundreds of preventable deaths each year in the United States.

As temperatures drop and furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters kick into gear across Pennsylvania, understanding how CO can infiltrate your home — and how to prevent it — is critical for every property owner.

Here’s what Hill Property Inspections recommends you know and check before winter is in full swing.

1. What Exactly Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of incomplete combustion — meaning when fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, coal, or wood don’t burn completely.

Every gas furnace, boiler, water heater, and fireplace produces some amount of CO, but in a properly vented system, those gases are safely carried outdoors. Trouble starts when vents, flues, or burners malfunction, allowing CO to leak indoors.

Pro Tip: Even small CO leaks can build up quickly in today’s tightly sealed homes with limited ventilation.

2. The Most Common Sources in Homes

Many homeowners assume CO only comes from furnaces — but there are several common culprits:

• Gas furnaces and boilers (cracked heat exchangers, blocked flues)

• Water heaters and gas dryers

• Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves

• Gas ranges or ovens (especially if used improperly for supplemental heat)

• Attached garages (vehicle exhaust seeping through door gaps or shared framing cavities)

• Portable generators or space heaters used indoors

In multi-unit or mixed-use buildings, CO can even travel between units through shared chases or return air systems.

3. Warning Signs of Potential CO Problems

Because CO itself can’t be seen or smelled, pay attention to indirect warning signs of combustion or ventilation issues:

• Yellow or flickering burner flames (instead of steady blue)

• Soot or scorch marks around furnace panels or vent connections

• Persistent condensation on windows or cold walls near heating appliances

• Unexplained headaches, dizziness, or nausea among occupants

• Smoke smell or backdrafting from fireplaces or water heaters

If these symptoms appear, leave the building immediately, call 911, and have the property evaluated before returning.

4. How to Prevent CO Buildup

Preventing carbon monoxide issues starts with proper maintenance and awareness. Follow these steps every heating season:

1. Schedule an annual furnace or boiler service — including a combustion efficiency and draft test.

2. Inspect all vent pipes for rust, gaps, or loose fittings, especially near elbows or joints.

3. Check chimney liners in older homes; deterioration or blockage can trap exhaust gases.

4. Never use ovens, stoves, or grills for heat.

5. Keep flues clear of bird nests, leaves, and snow.

6. Maintain adequate combustion air. In sealed basements or mechanical rooms, add venting or louvered doors.

Pro Tip: Negative pressure from exhaust fans or tight building envelopes can reverse flue draft — a common cause of hidden CO migration.

5. Detector Placement and Testing

Every home should have at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor, ideally near bedrooms and adjacent to mechanical rooms.

• Avoid placing detectors directly above fuel-burning appliances, which can cause false readings.

• Replace detectors every 5–7 years, or per manufacturer’s instructions.

• Test monthly and replace batteries each daylight saving change.

• Interconnected or smart detectors are best for multi-level or multi-unit properties.

6. Inspections & Professional Testing

A professional home or commercial inspection can reveal conditions that promote CO buildup — including improper vent pitch, disconnected flues, blocked chimneys, or shared ventilation paths between appliances.

At Hill Property Inspections, our team uses combustion analyzers and infrared thermography to spot exhaust leaks, confirm vent integrity, and verify proper airflow in basements and mechanical rooms.

We also check whether detectors are properly placed — something too many property owners overlook until an emergency occurs.

Final Thoughts

Carbon monoxide is silent, but the risks are very real. A few minutes of maintenance and an annual inspection can protect your family, tenants, or employees from one of the most preventable household hazards.

Ensure your home and family are safe from carbon monoxide and other unseen hazards this season by scheduling a thorough inspection or walk-through consultation:

📞 1-833-HILL-PRO

🌐 www.hillinspections.com

Hill Property Inspections, LLC is a full-service residential and commercial inspection firm based in the Johnstown, PA area.

Sump Pump Selection: What Size, Type & Backup System Do You Need?

A properly installed sump pump can mean the difference between a dry basement and a disaster. In western Pennsylvania—where heavy rains and snowmelt frequently push groundwater toward foundation walls—a reliable sump system is one of the most important tools in protecting your property.

Yet many homeowners overlook whether their pump is the right size, type, or configuration for their home’s specific drainage conditions. Below, Hill Property Inspections breaks down the key factors every homeowner should understand before the next big storm.

1. What a Sump Pump Actually Does

A sump pump is designed to automatically remove water that collects in a sump basin (pit) at the lowest point of a basement or crawlspace.

When the water level rises high enough, the pump activates and discharges water safely outside—preventing basement flooding, foundation deterioration, and mold growth.

However, not all sump pumps perform equally, and the wrong configuration can shorten pump life or fail when you need it most.

2. Pedestal vs. Submersible: Which Is Right for You?

There are two main types of sump pumps, each with pros and cons.

Pedestal Pumps

• Motor sits above the pit (on a “pedestal”) and is not submerged.

• Easier to service and generally less expensive.

• Louder and less powerful—better suited for smaller basins or infrequent use.

Submersible Pumps

• Entire unit sits below water level inside the basin.

• Quieter, more powerful, and handles higher volumes of water.

• Sealed motor resists moisture but costs more and may require full replacement when it fails.

Pro Tip: In areas like Johnstown, Somerset, Ligonier, Ebensburg, Altoona and Bedford, where basements frequently experience high groundwater, a submersible pump is typically the best long-term investment.

3. Sizing Matters: Matching Pump Capacity to Your Home

A pump that’s too small can burn out trying to keep up; one that’s too large may short-cycle and wear prematurely.

When sizing a pump, consider:

• Basin depth and diameter (commonly 18–24 inches wide, 24–30 inches deep).

• Vertical lift—the height the water must travel before discharging outside (often 8–12 feet).

• Discharge distance and pipe diameter.

• Inflow rate. If your pit fills quickly during heavy rain, you may need a higher-capacity pump (1/3 HP or 1/2 HP minimum).

A qualified inspector or plumber can help you estimate your gallons-per-minute (GPM) requirement and select the right horsepower.

4. Don’t Forget the Check Valve

Every sump system should include a check valve on the discharge pipe to prevent water from flowing back into the pit after the pump shuts off.

Without it, your pump will cycle on and off repeatedly, reducing lifespan and wasting energy.

Pro Tip: Listen for “clunking” when your pump turns off—that’s often the check valve closing. If you hear constant cycling, it may be failing.

5. The Backup System: Your Safety Net During Outages

Most basements flood not because the main pump fails—but because the power goes out during storms.

Consider one of these options:

Battery Backup System

• A secondary DC-powered pump runs automatically when the primary AC pump loses power.

• Ideal for typical residential basements.

• Batteries should be replaced every 3–5 years and tested monthly.

Water-Powered Backup System

• Uses municipal water pressure to create suction and pump out sump water—no battery or electricity required.

• Works only with city water (not wells) and consumes significant water during use.

Dual-Pump Systems

• Two AC pumps installed side-by-side, one serving as an automatic backup.

• Provides redundancy even if power is available.

Pro Tip: A sump pump alarm or smart monitoring device can alert you by phone if the water level rises unexpectedly.

6. Maintenance Tips to Keep It Working Year-Round

• Test your pump every few months by pouring water into the basin. It should activate automatically.

• Clean debris from the pit and check valve.

• Inspect the discharge line for obstructions, kinks, or freezing risk.

• Verify the outlet is on a dedicated GFCI-protected circuit.

• Replace pumps about every 7–10 years—or sooner if heavily used.

Final Thoughts

Your sump pump quietly protects your home’s foundation every time it rains. Treating it like a key mechanical system—not an afterthought—can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage.

If you’re unsure whether your sump system is properly sized, installed, or protected with a backup, Hill Property Inspections can evaluate it as part of your next inspection or as a standalone service.

We use infrared imaging and moisture meters to detect hidden seepage and verify discharge effectiveness before problems occur.

Schedule your sump system evaluation today:

📞 1-833-HILL-PRO

🌐 www.hillinspections.com

Hill Property Inspections, LLC is a full-service residential and commercial inspection firm based in the Johnstown, PA area.

Pre-Winter Checklist: What Home Systems to Inspect Before the Freeze

As fall turns to winter here in southwestern Pennsylvania, even a few overlooked maintenance items can lead to costly surprises. From frozen pipes to failing furnaces, now is the time to inspect and prepare your home’s major systems before the first real cold snap hits.

Here’s Hill Property Inspections’ professional pre-winter checklist—drawn from years of inspecting homes across Cambria, Somerset, Westmoreland, Blair, Indiana, Bedford and surrounding Counties.

1. Roof & Attic: Stop Leaks Before They Start

Your roof is your first line of defense against snow and ice.

• Inspect shingles for curling, cracking, or missing pieces—especially near valleys and chimneys.

• Check flashing around vents, skylights, and penetrations. Even small gaps can lead to leaks when ice accumulates.

• Look inside the attic for dark stains, damp insulation, or visible daylight—these are red flags for air leaks or roof damage.

• Verify ventilation. Proper airflow through soffit and ridge vents helps prevent condensation and ice damming.

Pro Tip: If you can see frost or moisture on attic nails, your ventilation or insulation is out of balance.

2. Gutters & Downspouts: Direct Water Away

Clogged gutters can create ice dams that force melting snow under your roof covering.

• Clear all leaves and debris. Flush the system with water to ensure flow.

• Confirm downspout extensions discharge at least 4–6 feet from the foundation.

• Inspect grading. Soil should slope away from the house—at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet.

These small adjustments prevent foundation seepage and protect basement walls through the wet freeze-thaw season.

3. HVAC System: Clean, Service, and Test

Cold weather exposes weak heating systems fast.

• Replace furnace filters and ensure registers are open and unobstructed.

• Have your furnace or boiler serviced by a qualified technician. Annual cleaning keeps efficiency high and reduces carbon monoxide risk.

• Test the thermostat and inspect vent connections for rust or gaps.

• Consider an infrared scan (available with Hill Property Inspections) to check for air leakage and uneven heat distribution.

If your system is older, now’s also the time to budget for an upgrade or backup source.

4. Plumbing & Water Systems: Prevent Freezing

Frozen pipes are among the most common—and costly—winter emergencies.

• Disconnect garden hoses and drain exterior faucets.

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated crawlspaces, basements, or garages.

• Locate your main water shut-off valve and make sure every adult in the household knows how to use it.

• If you have a sump pump, test it. Pour water into the basin and confirm automatic operation.

For homes on private wells, ensure the well pit or pressure tank area is insulated and protected from drafts.

5. Safety Devices: Test and Replace Batteries

• Smoke and CO detectors: test each unit and replace batteries.

• Fire extinguishers: ensure at least one is rated for A-B-C use and stored where it’s visible and easy to access.

• Dryer vent: clean out lint buildup to reduce fire risk.

6. Exterior & Entry Points: Keep the Cold Out

• Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk.

• Inspect exterior lighting for proper operation—shorter days require dependable fixtures.

• Check sidewalks and handrails for damage before freeze events make repairs difficult.

Final Thoughts

A pre-winter inspection is more than a checklist—it’s preventive insurance. By tackling these simple tasks now, you protect your roof, foundation, and comfort all season long.

If you’d rather have a certified professional evaluate these systems for you, Hill Property Inspections offers comprehensive pre-winter assessments, infrared scans, and maintenance inspectionsthroughout southwestern Pennsylvania.

Schedule your winter-readiness inspection today:

📞 1-833-HILL-PRO

🌐 www.hillinspections.com

Hill Property Inspections, LLC is a full-service residential and commercial inspection firm based in the Johnstown, PA area.