Springtime is a great time to make sure your sump pump is working properly. With springtime comes to a lot of rain, and the additional water can sometimes cause flooding in basements. Flooding problems usually can be solved with a sump pump, and therefore, it’s important to make sure this device is in good working order.
Sump pump repair and maintenance is not something that you have to spend a lot of time on, and it doesn’t cost a lot of money. Most sump pumps have an average lifespan of approximately 10 years, but it’s important to check them often. Here are a few things to check:
- The main items to inspect are the float, the sump pit, the valve, the impeller, and the power source.
- The float is a vital part of a pump and rises with water in the sump pit. This mechanism triggers the pump to pull water out of the pit. If the float rises with the water activating the pump, then shuts off when the water has been removed, the float is working properly.
- A sump pump should discharge water to the yard and not into a sink or drain. Pumps should not be hooked up to a sanitary sewer.
- Clean the pump’s inlet screen, and check its cord to make sure it is connected to power.
- Check the pit that the pump sits in to make sure it is free of any debris. Make sure the device isn’t leaking coolant.
- Ensure the pump is functioning properly by adding a few gallons of water in the pit. This should raise the float and activate the pump.
- Look in the pump’s owner’s manual to see if the device’s bearings require grease or oil.
- It’s always smart to have a backup pump, especially if you live in an area that floods a lot. Backup pumps should be battery- or water-powered and should also be inspected.
- If your sump pump does not seem to be working, make sure it is plugged in properly and check the circuit breaker. You may also need to check the ground fault circuit interrupter if your pump is connected to one. It may need to be reset. If all of these seem fine, then it might be time to replace the pump.
Performing these checks will help you stay ahead of the game and the spring showers.