A sump pump is an important device used to drain built-up water in the basements of homes. With how sump pumps are designed, they are essential in preventing basement flooding and water damage, particularly during storms. As a result, it is important that your sump pump is always in its best working condition.
This article will provide more information about sump pump maintenance to ensure your home is well-protected from water damage.
Why Sump Pump Maintenance Is Important
Much like other appliances in a house, sump pumps need to be maintained to make sure they are in the optimum condition to work. Sump pump maintenance makes sure that your sump pump is working at peak efficiency to drain water from your basement and safeguard your property from flooding and water damage.
Neglecting sump pump maintenance can result in pump failure and basement flooding. Checking the sump pit for debris and testing the pump are two ways to perform pump maintenance. If you notice that a part isn’t working properly, you should replace it as necessary.
Signs of Sump Pump Problems
It’s crucial to understand the typical signs of sump pump problems so you can properly manage your sump pump. With this knowledge, you can troubleshoot common sump pump problems and understand when to call a professional for repairs or replacement. To give you a better idea, here are some common indications of sump pump problems that you need to be aware of while troubleshooting.
Unusual Noises
Unusual noises from your sump pump are one of the most common signs that there is a problem. If the noise level is too high, your sump pump’s motor may have a failing bearing. If you are hearing rattling or grinding noises, it may indicate that the impeller, the fan at the bottom that pulls water into the pump, is jammed or damaged.
Frequent Cycling
If your sump pump keeps running and cycling frequently but won’t shut off, there may be an issue. Overly frequent cycling can indicate a faulty float switch, check valve, or discharge line. Have a professional come check your sump pump to ensure it is functioning correctly.
Water in the Sump Pit
Water in the sump pit is typical, especially if your sump pump has recently finished draining water from the basement. However, there may be an issue if the sump pit is consistently full of water and is not draining. This can be a sign that the water table is too high where the pump is positioned. Also, there may be an issue with the sump pump itself, such as a blocked or frozen discharge line that is obstructing the flow of water.
How To Maintain Your Sump Pump
You can do routine maintenance on your sump pump to ensure optimal functioning:
- Ensure that the pump is properly positioned: The sump pump should be upright and on a level surface for it to function properly. If not, the water won’t flow properly and forces the pump to work harder to clear and drain water which can break the pump’s motor over time.
- Regularly clean the sump pit: You should immediately clean the sump pit after each time it drains water from your basement. Sump pits regularly get debris stuck in them, but regular cleaning will ensure that nothing can obstruct the water flow while the sump pump is operating.
- Regularly test the pump and float switch: For the sump pump to function properly, it is supported by a float switch. Pouring water into the pump basin should cause the float switch to rise, activating the engine to start pumping the water out. If this happens, your sump pump is operating properly.
- Replace parts if necessary: If there are parts needed to be replaced, such as the pump motor or valve, you should unplug the sump pump and disconnect it from the discharge line. Then, follow the manual for removing and installing the new parts.
The Importance of Backup Sump Pumps
It is important to have a backup sump pump to ensure that your home is still protected from floods and water damage even if there is a power outage or mechanical failure. You can buy backup sump pumps that are battery-operated or water-powered that work as well as the main sump pump. These backup sump pumps will serve as your secondary defense against flooding.
Benefits of Professional Sump Pump Maintenance
While it is important to maintain your sump pump on your own, it’s also a good idea to have a professional sump pump maintenance service come out to evaluate your sump pump at least once a year.
A professional plumbing company for sump pump maintenance can assess the condition of your sump pump and perform the necessary repairs or replacements to ensure it functions as intended. More importantly, professionals offer a warranty on every project, ensuring that your sump pump is working properly and preventing future water damage.
The Conclusion
Sump pumps are essential in making sure that your home is protected from water damage caused by basement flooding, especially during storms. It is important that you utilize professional sump pump maintenance to ensure that your sump pump is fully functional and can do its job in draining water in your basement. Moreover, it is important to have a backup sump pump as an additional level of protection in case of power outages or electrical malfunctions.
Jolly Plumbing, Drains, Heating & Air is a top-ranked service provider of professional and premium sump pump maintenance. We also provide basement sump pump replacements and backup sump pump installations for your home to make sure it is weatherproof and in top shape to prevent flooding and water damage. Contact us today and learn more about our premium sump pump maintenance services.
