It’s a familiar scenario: a sudden downpour, and the worry creeps in—will your basement stay dry? Your home’s unsung hero, the sump pump, works to protect your living spaces from water damage. But like any hero, it needs your help to stay in top shape.
Learning how to maintain your sump pump is key to preventing a messy flood and ensuring your basement remains a dry, usable space, especially as summer rains approach.
Understanding Your Sump Pump: Your Home’s Water Guardian
Before diving into maintenance, it’s helpful to understand what a sump pump is and how it works. Think of it as a specialized electric pump designed to move unwanted water out of your basement or crawl space and away from your home’s foundation.
Groundwater naturally collects around your house and is directed through a drain system into a sump pit, a basin usually dug into the basement floor. When the water in the pit rises to a certain level, a float switch kicks into action. This switch tells the pump to turn on, and a spinning part called an impeller draws the water in.
The water is then pushed out through a discharge pipe, leading it far away from your house, typically at least 20 feet. Once the water level drops, the float switch tells the pump to turn off.
A check valve on the discharge pipe prevents water from flowing back into the pit after the pump stops, ensuring the system’s efficiency. Some systems even include a battery backup, a crucial feature for those moments when a power outage coincides with heavy rain.
You might have one of two main types of sump pumps:
- A submersible pump, where the motor is designed to work underwater inside the pit or
- A pedestal pump, which has a tall stand keeping its motor above the water level.
Knowing your pump’s type and its specific components can help you understand its needs.
How to Maintain Your Sump Pump: Keeping Your Basement Dry
Regular sump pump maintenance protects your home from potential water damage. While some models only need attention once or twice a year, pumps that run often might require more frequent checks.
1. Monthly Testing: A Simple Check for Big Peace of Mind
Make it a habit to test your sump pump monthly, or at least before heavy rain seasons.
Pour a generous bucket of water slowly into the sump pit until the pump’s float switch activates it.
Watch to make sure the pump turns on and successfully pumps the water out through the discharge pipe. If it doesn’t turn on or remove the water, that’s a clear sign something is wrong, and it’s time to call a professional.
During this monthly check, also make sure your pump is standing upright. Sump pumps can vibrate and shift when working, and if they tilt, it can prevent the float switch from moving freely and activating the pump when needed. Simply adjust it until it’s stable and upright again.
2. Seasonal and Annual Cleaning: Preventing Clogs and Buildup
Dirt, sand, and other debris can accumulate in your sump pit and around the pump’s inlet screen, which is designed to filter out larger particles. If this screen gets clogged, it can stop water from reaching the pump, making it useless.
- Quarterly Cleaning: For most sump pumps, clean the inlet screen every three to four months. If your pump also handles “graywater” from appliances like a washing machine, you should clean this screen monthly due to more lint and sediment. Unplug the pump, remove the screen, and clean it with a gentle brush. Remember to plug it back in afterward!
- Annual Deep Clean: Once a year, give your sump pump and pit a thorough cleaning.
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- Safety First: Always disconnect the pump from its power source before you start any cleaning or maintenance.
- Remove and Hose Off: Take the sump pump out of the pit. You can carry it outside and hose it off to remove any stuck-on grime or debris.
- Clean the Pit: Use a wet/dry vacuum to clean out the sump pit itself. Wipe it down thoroughly to get rid of any remaining sludge.
- Check and Clean the Check Valve: While you have the pump out, remove and clean the check valve on the discharge pipe. This valve is important for preventing water from flowing back into the pit.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is clean, place the pump back into the pit, reconnect it to the discharge pipe, and plug it back into its power supply. Then, perform another water test to ensure it’s working perfectly.
3. Inspect and Replace Worn Parts: Small Fixes Prevent Big Headaches
Replace worn-out components as soon as you notice them. The float switch, which tells the pump when to turn on and off, is especially prone to issues and should ideally be replaced every two years.
Also, check for any signs of corrosion or rust on parts like the battery, float switch, and inlet screen. If you spot rust that can’t be cleaned away, the part might need replacing.
4. Lubricate Bearings (If Applicable): Smooth Operation, Longer Life
Some sump pump models require the bearings to be lubricated annually during deep cleaning. This helps the pump run smoothly and extends its life.
Always check your pump’s user manual to see if this step is necessary for your specific model. If you can’t find the manual, a quick online search using your pump’s model number should help.
5. Check the Discharge Area: Ensuring Water Flows Away
The discharge pipe carries water away from your home. It’s crucial that this pipe is clear and that water is freely flowing at least 20 feet away from your foundation.
Regularly inspect the area around the discharge pipe and in the sump pit for any debris that could cause a clog. If you find blockages, clear them out quickly to prevent backflow and ensure the pump can do its job. Also, make sure the pipe itself hasn’t shifted or isn’t leaking.
6. Consider a Battery Backup: Your Pump’s Lifeline During Power Outages
Imagine a heavy storm hits, the power goes out, and your sump pump stops working right when you need it most. This is where a battery backup comes in handy. It ensures your pump keeps running even without electricity.
If you have one, test it regularly by unplugging the main pump to see if the backup system kicks in. This simple test could save you from significant water damage during an outage.
7. Install a Sump Pump Cover: A Simple Protection
Adding a snug-fitting, removable cover to your sump pit is a smart, easy maintenance tip. This cover helps prevent unwanted debris, lint, and even evaporation from entering the pit, keeping the system cleaner and extending its life.
While it doesn’t eliminate the need for cleaning, it certainly reduces how much dirt accumulates.
8. Power Supply Checks: Don’t Forget the Basics
It might seem obvious, but always ensure your sump pump’s electrical cord is securely plugged in. Also, regularly check the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet and your home’s circuit breaker. A tripped breaker or faulty GFCI can prevent your pump from getting power, leaving your basement vulnerable.
Knowing how to maintain your sump pump is a small effort with significant rewards. By following these simple tips—from monthly tests and regular cleaning to knowing when to call a professional—you can help ensure your home’s anti-flooding hero is always ready for action. Don’t let unexpected water ruin your summer plans; a well-maintained sump pump is your best defense against a wet basement and costly repairs.
Plumbing 911 Can Help Keep Your Basement Dry
If you’re noticing any issues with your sump pump or simply want to proactively safeguard your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Plumbing 911 is a reputable, family-owned, and operated plumbing firm made up of licensed, insured, and bonded professionals (OH. 36619) who offer full service for both residential and commercial properties, including everyday maintenance and emergency needs. You can easily schedule an appointment by selecting your service via our online booking, call us toll-free at 1-866-720-0911, or email [email protected] for a free inspection today. Plus, get $25 off any service just for submitting your online request! We serve Medina, Stark, Portage, Summit, Cuyahoga, Lake, Sandusky, Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Seneca, and Geauga counties.
