Key Takeaways:
- Inspect pumps before storm season arrives, not during an emergency: Look for warning signs like noise, constant running, visible rust, or clogs that indicate the pump needs maintenance or replacement.
- Annual maintenance prevents system failures: Clean the pump annually by disconnecting and rinsing it, clear the sump basin of debris, test activation by pouring water, and adjust the float if needed.
- Replace pumps older than 7 years to ensure reliability: A properly functioning sump pump prevents flooding, mold, mildew, and costly electrical damage during heavy rain events.
Your sump pump removes excess water from the sump basin. The best time to make sure your sump pump is ready is before you need it. With flooding and summer storms still a long ways off, here are a few ways you can get your sump pump ready before summer flooding and storms.
Check for Possible Damage
Just like any other appliance, sump pumps can wear out over time and malfunction. Thankfully, there are some common signs of damage that are easy to notice.
Noisy or Vibrating Pump
A noisy or vibrating sump pump indicates damage and needs repair or replacement. Excessively loud sounds coming from the pump can indicate worn parts or be a sign of something wrong with the motor. A jammed impeller causes vibration or grinding noise when debris is sucked into the pump. This will cause future pump problems if not addressed, so be sure to remove any debris trapped inside.
Pump Runs Nonstop
If your sump pump is running all the time, it could mean there is a mechanical issue with the float switch. This type of mechanical problem can be fixed if it’s the result of a pump shift. Pump shifts happen when the motor vibrates and moves the float switch out of place. Tangled or jammed float switches confuse the system and make it run nonstop. If you’ve noticed a constantly running sump pump, it may also be due to its size. Sometimes sump pumps are too small for the amount of floodwater they need to displace, so it’s best to fix this before a heavy rain season.
Visible Rust or Clog
If you see a brown rust-like substance in the pump, it could be iron bacteria. While it won’t harm your health, it can damage your plumbing and sump pump. Visible clogs will also cause issues down the line, so you will need to clean them out if you can. To reduce the amount of summer sump pump maintenance you need to complete in the future, use a filter to help keep sediment and other materials out.
Perform Maintenance
You can perform basic sump pump maintenance without the help of a plumber, but you may still want to consult an expert if you encounter any problems.
Remove and Clean the Pump
The pump should be cleaned annually for optimal performance. Turn the sump pump off and then disconnect and remove the pump. Carry it outside in plastic or a large container to prevent spills. Use a hose to rinse it off and clean out any stuck debris. Then, leave it to dry.
Clean out the Sump
After you remove and clean the pump, you’ll need to clear the basin. Drain any standing water from the sump pit and clean out any debris. When everything is clean, reconnect the pump and plug it in.
Make Sure It Works
Your sump pump should be tested every few months, especially before summer. All you need to do is add a bucket of water and watch to see if it activates correctly. If it doesn’t, you may have to adjust the float. Once you’ve adjusted it, try testing it again.
Replace Old Sumps With Star Water Systems
A functioning sump pump is needed to protect your home from heavy rains and flooding damage. Without one, water can cause flooding, lead to mold and mildew growth, even damage your electrical system and cause electrical fires. If your pump is more than seven years old, you may need to consider a replacement.
If your unit is too old or damaged to handle summer storms, replace it with a quality sump pump from Star Water Systems. We’ve been a trusted water supply product provider since 1866, and we’ve spent decades curating a comprehensive selection of high-quality water systems. We pride ourselves on offering efficient and durable products that you can rely on. Find a dealer near you today!
