During this time of the year, ensuring that your sump pump is up and running in imperative. Of course, unfortunately a sump pump can run into problems at any time of the year. It can also be difficult to tell when your sump pump is having issues, since it’s designed to run only when the pit it is installed in has filled up with water.
Oftentimes, sump pump problems aren’t detected until it is too late and water has already flooded the basement. All is not lost though. There are a few ways you can check for problems in your sump pump that could allow you to prevent an occurrence like this from happening. Keep reading to learn more.
Visual Inspection
One of the very first things you should do is visually inspect your sump pump, checking for holes and cracks in the exterior as well as for any signs of damage. This includes damage to the electrical cord, which can make your basement unsafe. You’ll also want to check the area where the water drains. If the drainpipe is clogged with debris, remove it.
Check the Plug
You can test to see if your sump pump is up and running by unplugging the pump and plugging it back in. In many cases, you’ll hear the sump pump start up right after you plug it in. Otherwise, you might want to check the circuit breaker box and reset the circuit breaker leading to that area.
Test with Water
Grab a bucket of water or two and pour water into the sump pit to see if the system runs properly. Only fill the pit to the float line to ensure that the system activates at all. Then, continue pouring to make sure that water drains at a reasonable rate.
If not, it’s time to call a plumber for a replacement or a system upgrade. Professional inspectors can also assist you in determining if your sump pump is in good shape for spring and summer.
For sump pump services in Tumwater, WA, contact Brooks Plumbing Co. today.
