As always Jack DeVetten, the Professor of Plumbing has the best advice on sump pump maintenance for homeowners! Not sure what a sump pump is or why it is the basement to begin with? You have come to the right place. The sump pump is the first line of defence in your home against basement floods. The sump pump keeps water damage out of your house. And it maintains the integrity of the foundation in your home. But, like anything mechanical, it needs proper maintenance to be efficient.
Next, we are going to dive into everything sump pumps. What they are, what they are used for, where they are located, and how to keep them in top condition. Whether you are a homeowner or a property manager, these tips on sump pump maintenance will keep yours working efficiently. With that said, let us begin!
What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a small system that prevents your basement from flooding. Its only function is to pump out the water that accumulates in the pit and send it away from your house, and to prevent the water level rising to a point where it causes damage to the home. More on Sump Pumps.
Where is a Sump Pump Located
The sump pump sits in a sump pit. This a hole with a gravel base, dug at the lowest part of the basement. The sump pit measures approximately two feet deep and eighteen inches wide. And is effective in gathering and the discharge of any water that would otherwise drain into the basement.
Why is a Sump Pump Important?
Definitely, the need for a sump pump is there, for any homeowners in high water table or flood-prone areas. Water damage is a costly nightmare, ruining floors and walls and furniture, resulting in mold growth. As mentioned before, a sump pump serves as a preventative system and keeps your basement dry and protects structure of the home. It is also about peace of mind. Knowing that your home is safe from the often-crippling effects of water damage. But for many that live in flood prone areas, the sump pump is not an option.
How Often Should a Sump Pump be Checked?
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your sump pump is always ready for action. You should check your sump pump once a year. Checking your pump is a great idea that can prevent surprises when you least want them. A routine check-up by Ace Plumbing and Heating can identify potential problems before they happen.
What to Look for During an Inspection.
Check the Power.
Always start by ensuring the pump is plugged in and the breaker has not tripped. Consider installing a backup power supply for additional peace of mind if there is a power outage.
Blocked water discharge lines.
This is the line that discharges water away from your house. But if it becomes blocked, the water will back up and, flood your basement.
Malfunctioning float switch.
The function of the float switch is to trigger the pump and reduce the water level. But if the switch is malfunctioning, the pump will not come on. Pour water in the sump pit so that the float rises and initiates the pump. This is to see if the switch works and initiates the pump.
Wierd noises from the pump exhibit motor failure.
It is an indication that something is mechanically wrong. Taking care of that rattle or grinding noise immediately will not only save you money, but also prevent costly flood damages to your home.
5 Steps to Clean a Sump Pump
Cleaning your sump pump can be intimidating, but here is a simple procedure.
- Disconnect the pump from the power source.
- If possible, remove the pump out from the pit to clean it better.
- Remove mud, debris, or sediment by washing the pump with a garden hose. Check intake and discharge valve. Remove any blockages.
- While the pump is out, the sump pit remove any debris in the pit.
- After the cleaning is done, install the pump and connect to power. Pour water into the pit to ensure the pump works.
In conclusion, sump pump maintenance is not the most glamorous of chores. But it is absolutely among the most crucial. A properly maintained sump pump guards your home against water damage, and helps you save money on insurance premiums and repairs. A big benefit is that it provides peace of mind during stormy seasons.
Remember, that regular maintenance, cleaning, and inspecting your sump pump will keep it running efficiently. A little diligence can help extend the life of your sump pump when you need it most. But if inspecting and maintaining a sump pump is not your cup of tea, Ace Plumbing and Heating can take care of your sump pump maintenance as part of your Gold Club Membership annual tune-up.