The very purpose of your sump pump is to keep your basement dry during intense thunderstorms. In simple terms, it pumps excess water to the outside faster than it can come in. If the equipment isn’t well maintained, your sump pump can break down before the end of its normal lifespan of about 10 years. But there are ways to make sure your sump pump is ready for the storm season.
Make Sure the Power’s On
The sump pump gets its energy from your electrical system, so you need to make sure that it’s plugged in, that its switch is on at your circuit box, and that you hear it working when you turn it on. One good idea is to have a generator that can run your sump pump if a storm knocks your power out. You can also invest in a sump pump that falls back on batteries in case of an outage.
Make Sure the Float Switch Works
Your sump pump’s float switch is much like the float in your toilet tank. When the water level in the tank or basin rises, so does the float. When it gets to a certain level, the float switch tells the sump pump to start discharging water so your basement doesn’t flood. Because of this, it’s important to make sure the float switch works. All you need to do is add water to your sump pump basin until the float reaches the level where it should activate the pump. If this doesn’t happen, your sump pump needs repair before the next storm.
Make Sure the Pump’s Clean
Cleaning your sump pump from time to time should be part of routine maintenance. Disconnect the pump from its power source, and take it out of the basin. Use a brush with stiff bristles to clean off dirt and sediment. While you have the pump out, remember its age and check for rust or corrosion. Corrosion makes a sump pump work harder than it should and shortens its working life.
Make Sure the Discharge Hose is Clear
Don’t forget to check your discharge hose and outdoor pipe. Just before a major storm hits, check the discharge hose and outdoor pipe to ensure they’re clear of debris. Also check to see that the outdoor pipe is aimed away from your house.
More About Maintaining Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump not only keeps your basement from flooding but also brings benefits such as discouraging mold. It even promotes fire prevention, as dirty water can cause electrical wires and fixtures to short circuit. Our plumbers are proud to apply their skills and experience to the installation, maintenance, and repair of all aspects of our customers’ plumbing. If your sump pump needs care, don’t hesitate to reach out to G.I. Plumbing of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.
