Tips for Sump Pump Maintenance

Image courtesy of Chris Tengi/Flickr.

Your sump pump has the important job of removing water from underneath your house to keep it dry and safe. Because it is such an important plumbing appliance, it is important that it is well maintained and taken care of. For repairs and major maintenance, you should contact a professional plumber. We provide sump pump repair on Long Island and can help you maintain your pump.

But, there are some things you can do yourself to keep your sump pump in the best condition possible.

Check the Power Source 

Every few months, check to make sure your sump pump is plugged in and that there isn’t any damage to the power cord. Sump pumps require electricity to run, so if yours isn’t connected to an outlet or has a damaged cord, it won’t work properly. If your sump pump has a battery for a backup power source, make sure it is charged.

Make Sure the Pump is Standing Straight Up

When sump pumps pump water out of the pit, they vibrate, which could cause them to lean. Make sure your pump is standing straight up so that all the parts work properly.

Test the Pump

When you check your pump’s power source, also test it to make sure it works correctly. You can do this by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit and watching to make sure the pump turns on and removes the water. If it doesn’t, contact a professional plumber right away.

Clear Debris from the Sump Pit

Make sure the pit is free of debris, since anything that falls inside can inhibit it from working properly. If something is in the pit, it can prevent the float mechanism from working, so the pump won’t turn on when it needs to. Prevent things from falling into the pit by making sure the lid closes tightly.

Maintain the Outside Drain

Find your pump’s drain outside your home and make sure it is also clear of debris. Make sure it directs the water away from the house so that water that is pumped out doesn’t seep back under your home.

Maintaining your sump pump can help ensure that it will continue to work properly, especially during a storm and to prevent basement flooding. Follow these tips to keep your pump working well and maintained, but if you find your pump isn’t working or has been damaged, contact us. We specialize in sump pump repair on Long Island.