Spring Maintenance for Your Sump Pump

How Does Sump Pump Work?

The groundwater is gathered by a sump pump and stored in the sump tank, often referred to as a crock, pit, or basin. The hole is organically cut below the level of your basement floor, creating a pit that resembles a basin. It has valves that can detect water levels and water pressure that are too high.

When the water level rises too high, a discharge pipe mechanically pumps the extra water away from the property. It links the sump pump to the designated drainage area and is known as an effluent line. Prepare your sump pump for the spring by being aware of its advantages and applications.

Safety Measures

Prior to anything else, you should always make sure that you are secure while servicing your sump pump. Sump pumps use electricity to run and are located in or near water, which can be a risk.To be safe, carefully follow these instructions:

• Turn off the circuit breaker that powers the sump pump or disconnect it.
• When working with the contaminated water in your sump pump, always put on safety goggles and gloves.
• A spatula, a bucket, and a plastic sheet to cover the area you will be cleaning should all be gathered.
• It’s also advised to wear footwear with rubber soles that are waterproof.

Benefits Of Sump Pumps

Prevent Flooding: When it rains a lot, water collects at the foundation’s base. The sump pump is useful when there is an accumulation of water or when your basement experiences flooding-like conditions.

Inhibit Mold Growth: Mold can grow as a result of standing water, which is very bad for your home and health. Your basement’s dry environment can prevent the mold from forming.

Prevent Fires: If water gets into your basement, appliances could short out and catch fire from electrical shorts. Your basement’s surplus water is removed by a sump pump, which also avoids short circuits.

Less expensive: Sump pumps are reasonably priced, rarely need maintenance, and endure for 15 to 30 years.

Tips to Ensure Your Sump Pump is Ready For Spring

Clean the screen:

Make sure the entrance screen is debris-free by checking it. If it is clogged, you might want to gently remove it from the pump and give it a final rinse in water until it is clear. Your pump will work harder than necessary if the screen is clogged, which will further wear down the engine.

Inspect the check valve:

The check valve is situated on the sump pump’s effluent discharge line. After the pump shuts off, it prevents the water from returning to the pit. When the sump pump shuts off due to a broken check valve, water in the outlet pipe spills back into the collection pit, requiring the sump pump to restart.

Verify that the inner flap swings smoothly to ensure that the check valve is operating well. Use vinegar and water to flush it out if it seems stuck in order to get rid of the mineral buildup.

Test the float switch: 

A float switch aids a sump pump in determining whether the basement’s water limitation has been exceeded. When it floods, the sump pump won’t operate if the float switch breaks. You can test it by adding a few gallons of water to the water collection pan of the sump pump. If it functions properly, it will automatically drain the water before turning off. You should think about changing the switch if it breaks.

Exercise the outlet:

A sump pump must be plugged into a GFCI outlet in accordance with the law. Press the test and reset buttons to make sure you’re safe.

Got a backup battery?

A float switch aids a sump pump in determining whether the basement’s water limit has been exceeded. When it floods, the sump pump won’t operate if the float switch breaks. You can check it by adding a few gallons of water to the water collection pan of the sump pump. If it functions properly, it will instantly drain the water before turning off. You should think about changing the switch if it breaks.

Sump pumps are a crucial piece of equipment that you need if your home floods or is subject to heavy water infiltration. They not only help to prevent flooding in your basements but also to keep the area dry and to halt the spread of mildew and mold.

Your sump pump will reliably protect your home during spring by being frequently maintained. Prepare your sump pump this spring to prevent any disasters at home. For any plumbing services, including the installation or maintenance of your sump pumps, get in touch with Everest Drain And Plumbing right now.