The job of your sump pump is to take the water that would otherwise flood your basement and discharge it to the outside. This spares your basement and other areas of your home a great deal of damage and saves you the money it would cost to repair it. To do its job, your sump pump must remain free of blockages. This may be easy for you to do, but you should also call on a plumber now and then to make sure your sump pump is working optimally.
Keep the Pit Covered
One way to prevent clogs and blockages is to keep your sump pump’s pit covered. A cover prevents debris from entering the pit and causing clogs. The only time to remove the cover is when a plumber services your sump pump.
Install a Mesh Strainer
Your sump pump has an inlet screen that pulls in water but keeps out debris, such as leaves, soil and trash. Installing a mesh strainer over it works like your drain strainer to keep debris from fouling the appliance. It not only prevents clogs but also prevents debris from getting into the sump pump’s motor and damaging it.
Place the Pump Above the Sediment
If your sump pump is submersible, it’s probably sitting on the bottom of the pit. This means it’s in contact with soil that it can take in. This can cause clogs. One simple solution is to place the pump on a cinder block or a couple of bricks to keep it off the bare floor of the pit.
Keep the Discharge Line Clear
Your sump pump’s discharge line may be subject to blockages caused by snow, ice or mud that forms after a rainstorm. Check regularly to make sure that the flow of the water is unimpeded.
Have the Sump Pump Cleaned Regularly
This job is simple but can be messy, so you might want to hire a professional plumber to do it. They’ll unplug the pump first, uncouple it from its discharge pipe, and pull it out of the pit. They’ll then hose it down and use a scrub brush to clean it. The plumber uses a wet vac to clean out the sump pit before they return the pump. Then, they’ll test it to make sure it works well.
Test the Pump Regularly
The pump shouldn’t be tested only when it’s cleaned. You should test it even when it hasn’t rained in a while. Pour a bucket of water into the pit. Then look to see if the pump switches on, if the float rises, and if the water is discharged.
Your sump pump is important for the safety of your home. It’s up to you to make sure it stays clear of clogs and works well. If you have concerns or require sump pump services, contact Champion Comfort Experts in Hendersonville, NC.
