A sump pump is a pivotal system for homeowners residing in zones with elevated water tables or at risk of flooding. It aids in preventing basement flooding by evacuating surplus water accumulating near a house’s foundation. Nonetheless, like all machines, sump pumps can malfunction or fail eventually, potentially leading to expensive and destructive floods. To avoid this, you should routinely inspect your sump pump to confirm proper functionality before flooding occurs.
But how do you even go about a sump pump inspection? This post outlines actions you may take to assess if your sump pump is performing as intended. Read keenly before you desperately need a sump pump repair service.
Step 1: Check the Power Source
The initial phase is to inspect the power source. Most sump pumps have a committed electric outlet nearby, while others may be hardwired into your home’s electric framework. If your sump pump is plugged into an outlet, affirm that it is receiving power by testing the outlet with another machine.
If your sump pump is hardwired, look for a switch on the pump itself or near the circuit breaker panel to see if it’s turned on. If not turned on, do it yourself and see if the machine works. This inspection stage is basic yet imperative. Without power, the pump wouldn’t have the option to work. Supposing all checks out so far, proceed to the next inspection step.
Step 2: Examine the Sump Pit
The next step is taking a closer look at the sump pit where the sump pump is installed. The pit needs to be clear of debris and sediment piles, as such materials can disrupt the suitable functioning of the pump. You can use a flashlight to examine the bottom of the pit for any blockages, like dirt, stones, or miniature playthings that may have made their way inside. Remove the clutter using gloved hands or a small scoop.
Step 3: Test the Float Switch
A float switch is a mechanism that turns on the sump pump when water reaches a high point. To check if it’s functioning, slowly add water to the pit until the float rises to trigger the pump. At this point, you should notice the pump starting and pumping water.
When levels fall, the pump should stop itself. The float switch has issues if the pump fails to start when you add water or doesn’t go off after emptying. You may need to replace or repair it with the help of pros.
Step 4: Listen for Unusual Noises
Another way to determine if the sump pump works appropriately is to listen for odd noises, such as grinding, scraping, or glugging. If there are such sounds, it could mean the spinning wheel, bearings, or flapped valve inside the pump have issues. Under such situations, the smart move would be to contact a professional sump pump repair company before it’s too late.
Step 5: Verify Proper Water Discharge
After allowing the sump pump to complete its cycle, head outside and examine the discharge pipe to ensure water is released properly. Inspect for indications of leaks, fractures, or obstructions along the pipe’s length, paying special attention to joining points and connections. Ensure the terminus of the pipe guides water away from your home’s foundation to avoid accumulating close by and seeping back into your basement.
Step 6: Clean or Replace the Filter
Sump pumps have filters that catch debris, protecting parts and drainage. These filters get dirty over time, reducing their effectiveness in trapping particles. The result is a diminished performance of your sump pump. Clean the filter as directed in the manufacturer’s instructions to restore normality. This cleaning will ensure optimal functioning and boost the durability of your sump pump.
Conclusion
A working sump pump is vital for safeguarding your home against flood damage. Sump pumps can last ten years and much more with proper care. Follow simple steps to keep the pump functioning properly to withstand whatever mother nature throws. If you face issues beyond your skills, Tiger Services professionals are prepared to jump in quickly and effectively solve problems with top-of-the-class sump pump repair service. Call us today.
