For a sump pump to effectively move away water from your basement, you must keep it in good condition. With the guide below, you will know the steps to maintain your sump pump and have it working efficiently all the time.
1. Remove Debris From the Sump Basin
Removing large or loose debris from the basin is a crucial step that helps make it easier to remove the pump itself so you can clean it thoroughly. However, before you even touch your sump pump to carry out maintenance, it is important that you remember to unplug it from the power supply to ensure zero risks.
2. Disconnect the Pump for Cleanup
You will have to remove the pump to give your sump pump a good cleaning. To effectively do that, start by disconnecting the discharge pipe from the pump. If the pipe appears to be stuck on the pump, use a water displacement spray to loosen the connection. A water displacement spray also helps prevent damage to the pipe and pump.
According to professional plumbers, one of the factors that can make a pipe stick on the pump is the buildup of mold around the connection site. If you check and confirm this to be the case, you may want to use disinfecting vinegar to suppress the growth of mold. Once you have disconnected the pump from the discharge pipe, wipe the sump pump with a sponge or damp cloth to remove grime.
It’s best to take the pump outdoors for cleaning so you don’t get the house all messed up. Another thing to note is that while giving your pump a thorough cleaning, you should check for signs of damage or corrosion. If you notice that something does not seem right, call your local plumber so they can have the pump checked.
3. Remember to Clean the Inlet Screen of the Sump Pump
Check the base of your pump to locate the inlet screen. Once you have found it, clean it using a scrub brush to effectively get rid of debris that the filter has caught over time. Remember that the inlet screen is important, and you need to have it functioning at its best for the entire unit to perform as expected.
4. Lubricate the Pump Bearings
Some manufacturers design their sump pumps with sealed bearings, while others design theirs with unsealed bearings. Sealed bearings do not need lubrication, while unsealed ones require lubrication on a regular basis. That said, before lubricating the pump bearings, be sure to check the owner’s manual to see if lubrication is recommended.
Once you have gone through the above process, test your sump pump to make sure it is working as anticipated. A sump pump is of critical importance in preventing your basement from flooding, so it’s vital that you keep it in good condition by conducting regular maintenance. If yours is damaged, call us at G. I. Plumbing today for sump pump services in Bethel Park, PA.
