5 Maintenance Tips for Sump Pumps Before the Rainy Season

Spring has sprung, and that means one thing for many homeowners: the possibility of heavy rains and flooding. To make sure your home stays dry and protected, it’s essential to prepare your sump pump in Mendota for the upcoming season.

Our expert Mendota plumbers at Triple Service put together a list of simple steps you can take to ensure your sump pump is ready to handle the extra water that comes along with spring rains.

Read on to learn more or simply give us a call today!

1) Test Your Sump Pump

Most sump pumps are easy to test, provided you can get access to them. Pour some water into the sump pit to see if the pump activates and effectively pumps the water out. There is usually a line that indicates how full the pump needs to be before it runs. If it doesn’t turn on or if it’s not pumping properly, you may need to troubleshoot or consider replacing the pump.

2) Clean Your Sump Pump Pit

Remove any debris, dirt, or sediment that may have accumulated in the pit. This will help prevent clogs and ensure that the pump can function efficiently when needed.

If you don’t have easy access to your pump pit, you may need to get professional help to do this. Most plumbers install sump pumps in places that are relatively easy to get to, but sometimes there’s not a good option and so your pump may be behind a wall or in a crevice under the stairs.

3) Examine Your Sump Pump’s Power

Check the power source for your sump pump to ensure it’s working correctly. Make sure the power cord is securely plugged in, and consider installing a battery backup system in case of power outages during heavy storms. If you want a battery or you’re not sure where your pump plugs in, give us a call and we’ll come take care of it for you.

4) Inspect the Discharge Line

Find out where your pump empties and look at the pipe there. Make sure it’s clear of any obstructions and properly positioned to direct water away from your home’s foundation. If the line is blocked or improperly positioned, it could cause water to back up into your basement.

If you can’t see inside the line, you can try sticking a long object, like a yardstick or a broom handle, inside of it. Just make sure you don’t get this stuck! If you can’t test your discharge line, our team can help!

5) Catch Sump Pump Problems Early

Finally, keep an eye out for signs of potential problems with your sump pump. Listen for strange noises or vibrations, which could indicate mechanical issues. Additionally, pay attention to any irregular cycling or frequent cycling of the pump, as this could signal a problem with the float switch or water level sensor. Note that your pump should cycle frequently if there has been a recent rain or snow storm.

Keep Your Sump Pump Problem-Free This Spring

By taking these simple steps to prepare your sump pump for spring rains, you can help ensure that your basement stays dry and protected all season long. If you encounter any issues or need assistance with your sump pump maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Triple Service for professional help and guidance!