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Check out these simple tips for sump pump maintenance to ensure your clients' basements stay dry.
Published 24 Nov 2022
Regular sump pump maintenance is essential to ensure the pump works properly and keeps any basement dry. The maintenance typically includes checking the pump for proper function, cleaning the pump and discharge line, and checking the float switch for proper operation. Additionally, you should check the sump pit's water level to ensure it doesn't get too high.
The maintenance of sump pumps depends on how often they’re used. Pumps used only in heavy rains or snow melts don’t need to be checked as often as those that run continuously. However, even infrequently used pumps can develop problems, so it’s still a good idea to perform regular maintenance to ensure they are in good condition and is effective during dewatering and even prevent flooding.
The Sump and Sewage Pump Manufacturer’s Association (SSPMA), an organization that represents the different manufacturers of sumps, recommends the following maintenance guidelines:
Below are some tips on what to perform during each maintenance period.
There are six things a professional should inspect:
Ensure the pit is large enough to hold all the water the pump will need to move. It should also be deep enough so that the float switch has room to operate correctly. The recommended depth is at least 24 inches deep and 18 inches wide.
The check valve is installed on the discharge pipe and prevents water from flowing back into the pit once it’s been pumped out. It’s essential to ensure the check valve is installed correctly and is working properly.
Inspect the backup power source to ensure it’s in good working condition. It’s vital in case of a power outage or the primary pump fails. The most common backup power source is a battery, though generators are also effective.
Adding an alarm to the sump pump can help you get alerted if the water level in the pit becomes unsafe. It’s a good safety feature to have in case of a power outage or if the pump fails.
The cover on the sump pump is vital to keep debris and dirt out of the pit. Ensure it fits snugly and is free of any holes or cracks.
It’s essential to ensure the discharge location is away from the home’s foundation to prevent any water from seeping back into the basement. The recommended measurement is at least 20 feet away.
Eliminate manual tasks and streamline your operations.
To test the sump pump, you’ll need to fill the pit with water. The best way to do this is to use a garden hose. Once the pit is full, the pump should begin running. Seeing water flowing out of the discharge pipe signifies that the pump is working. Ensure the float switch functions correctly if the pump doesn’t turn on.
The sump pump should be level so that it can operate properly. Use a level to check the pump, and adjust it if necessary.
Clean the screen to prevent it from getting clogged. Use a brush to clean the screen, and make sure to remove any debris that’s accumulated.
If the sump pump isn’t working correctly, you may need to deep clean it. It involves disassembling the pump and cleaning all the dirt and grimes built over time.
Inspecting the discharge line is essential to ensure it’s not clogged or damaged. If the discharge line is clogged, water will back up into the pit and could cause the pump to malfunction.
Ensure proper discharge of water at the discharge location. If water is pooling around the discharge pipe, it could be a sign of a clog.
Ensure the cord and outlet are in good working order if the sump pump is plugged into an outlet. Check the wiring if the sump pump is hardwired to ensure no loose connections.
If the sump pump doesn’t turn on, you should first check the water level in the pit. If the water level is low, it may not trigger the float switch to turn on the pump. Also, make sure the float switch is working properly. Lastly, check the power source to ensure the pump is plugged in properly or the wiring is secure. Lastly, ensure the inlet valve is free of clogs and debris.
If the sump pump doesn’t shut off, it could be due to a problem with the float switch. There’s a possibility the float switch is stuck in the “on” position or damaged. You can try gently tapping the float switch to see if it will move. If the float switch is damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
If the sump pump starts and stops too frequently, it could indicate that the pit is too small. The pit should be large enough to hold a day’s worth of rainwater. Check also the discharge pipe to make sure it’s not clogged. If the discharge pipe is clogged, water will back up into the pit and cause the pump to turn on more frequently.
A sump pump should make a humming noise when it’s running. The pump may be worn out and need replacement if you hear a loud banging noise.
SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor) is a versatile app that can make your sump pump maintenance efficient, quick, and easy. With SafetyCulture, you can do the following:
SafetyCulture is the perfect tool for streamlining your sump pump maintenance activities.
Rob Paredes
Rob Paredes is a content contributor for SafetyCulture. He is a content writer who also does copy for websites, sales pages, and landing pages. Rob worked as a financial advisor, a freelance copywriter, and a Network Engineer for more than a decade before joining SafetyCulture. He got interested in writing because of the influence of his friends; aside from writing, he has an interest in personal finance, dogs, and collecting Allen Iverson cards.
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