When the leaves start to change color, rainy fall weather isn’t far behind. While your sump pump probably worked well through the summer storms, is it ready for what the cooler, unsettled autumn weather has in store?
Keeping up with sump pump maintenance can mean the difference between a dry basement and an emergency repair and cleanup. Homeowners can do quick inspections and simple tests to catch potential issues early. If the job seems too big to tackle on your own, call the professionals at Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating for comprehensive sump pump maintenance, repairs, and replacements.
Below is an easy sump pump maintenance checklist for homeowners:
Check the Power Sources
The middle of a storm isn’t the time to discover your sump pump isn’t getting power.
When inspecting the power source, make sure the unit is plugged into a GFCI outlet. GFCI outlets are required for sump pumps because electricity and wet basements are a dangerous combination. Also, check that the circuit breaker labeled for the basement or sump pump is on a dedicated circuit, not shared with other devices or appliances.
Use the “Bucket Test” to Make Sure the Pump Works
A great way to check a sump pump is to create your own rainstorm with a five-gallon bucket. Pour water into the sump pit until the float rises and the pump activates. The pump should start within a few seconds, move water out through the discharge line, and then shut off when the water level drops. A properly functioning sump pump should clear five gallons of water in about one minute. If it takes much longer, the discharge pipe may be clogged, or the pump motor may be wearing out.
Test the Float Switch for Free Movement
The float switch is the trigger that activates your sump pump. Manually lift the float to make sure the pump engages, then lower it to see if the pump shuts off without sticking or hesitating. If the float is stuck, it causes rapid cycling or continuous running, which quickly wears out the unit and can lead to failure.
Evaluate Your Sump Pump Backup System
When the power goes out during a heavy storm, your sump pump backup system needs to be ready. Whether you have a battery backup, a home generator system, or a water-pressure-powered backup, you should check it before the fall rainy season starts. Confirm that backups are fully charged and connections are intact. Remember, it’s your last line of defense against a flooded basement.
Recognize Sump Pump Red Flags
Sump pumps will give you signs they’re about to let you down at the worst possible time. That’s why a pre-fall check that looks for these red flags is important:
- Loud grinding noises or rattling when the pump is running.
- Bad smells from the sump pit, which can indicate stagnant water or mold.
- Rust on the pump body, discharge joints, or check valve means the pump material is breaking down and needs a thorough inspection, maintenance, or replacement.
- Water remains in the pit after a pump cycle finishes.
- The pump frequently short cycles, runs continuously, or activates during dry weather.
- The pump doesn’t start until the water level in the pit is dangerously high.
Jack Hall Can Keep Your Basement Dry in Glens Falls, Queensbury, Lake George, and Saratoga
If your basement has flooded before, your sump pump works hard in rainy weather, or the unit is getting old, Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating should be your first call for sump pump maintenance, repair, or replacement. Our team can tackle everything from electrical troubleshooting to maintaining complex basement systems with multiple pumps. Remember, you can schedule a sump pump inspection at the same time as an HVAC or plumbing service call to save time and keep these important parts of your home in optimal, reliable shape.