Add Sump Pump Maintenance to Annual To-Do List

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

A sump pump is only as good as its maintenance

Add Sump Pump Maintenance to Annual To-Do List

For many homes in Doral, FL, when stormwaters rise, they rely on the sump pump for protection against flooding. Typically installed in the lowest portion of a house, if it is working correctly and activates to drain water above set levels, homeowners won’t even notice it hard at work. As with any other part of a house, the pump is only as good as its maintenance.

Annual Inspection

Luckily, pump maintenance is easy, as long as it is done. Below are annual maintenance steps to ensure a sump pump will work when it needs to:

• Verify the power source is plugged in and connected to a GFCI outlet.
  
• Inspect the cord for tears, wear, or other damage.
  
• Ensure the pump maintains an upright, level position.
  
• Test the pump by filling the basin with water.
  
• Remove the pump from the basin to clean potential debris from the grate.
  
• Examine pipes and joints, ensuring they are tightly connected and properly drain.
  
• Check that the discharge pipe is debris-free.
  
  

Extra Protection
For homeowners who have experienced flooding and required the services of water remediation experts, they know how important a properly functioning sump pump is. For those who haven’t had a flooded basement, if the pump is old, it might be time for a basement inspection.
Along with maintenance and verifying that the pump works and is not impaired, there are simple steps to keep water from infiltrating your home. While there are more complex and costly ways to waterproof lower levels, tasks, such as regular cleaning and maintain gutters and downspouts, can go a long way to keep water at bay. Additional yard grade and landscaping can also help keep your home more secure.
For many people, a sump pump is something that can easily be forgotten. If maintenance isn’t already on your to-do list, adding it can provide peace of mind and keep your investment running longer.