Check Your Sump Pump This Spring

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

The cleanup and restoration begins with a phone call. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Call 712-262-4379

The sump pump is a staple in the basements of many homes around the country. They help prevent water damage due to flooding, going to work automatically as they gather excess water in the pit (the sump) and then pump it out into the wastewater system or a well. 

Like your hot water heater and furnace, you should check your sump pump every 3-4 months to make sure it is in proper working order. Improperly operating sump pumps are typically the culprits for basement flooding. Luckily, testing your sump pump is easy and only takes a few minutes. 

Free your exterior drain pipe of any debris

Make sure that it's still directing water away from your foundation. Remove any debris that may have gathered in or around your pump to prevent it from clogging. 

Check the pumps power

Locate the two cords running to an outlet from your sump pump. One cord is the pump cord and the other float cord. The pump cord will be plugged into the back of the float cord. Unplug the two cords, and plug in the pump cord only. This should turn on the pump and you should hear the motor running. If it's working, re-connect the cords and plug them back in. 

Pour water in the pump pit

If your sump pump only has one cord, you can test it by slowly pouring 5 gallons of water into the pump pit. The float should rise and the pump should then turn on. Once the water gets pumped, make sure that the pump turns itself off. 

After testing your sump pump if it doesn't seem to be working properly, contact a local plumber immediately. Typically sump pumps last up to 10 years, but if it runs often, you may want to consider replacing it every 5-7 years. Sump pumps are only good in an emergency if they are in working order, so be sure to take the time and test your sump pump regularly. 

If you find yourself stuck in a bad position wondering how to clean up after water damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We are always "Here to Help."