Sump pumps are a must-have all year round, but they really come in handy during the fall and winter months, especially for those of us in Ohio who deal with cold weather and snowfall. Taking care of your sump pump should be a top priority. So, here are a few tips and tricks from your experts at Centerville Plumbing & Drain that you can do this fall to ensure your sump pump performs flawlessly in the colder months ahead.
YOUR FALL CHECKLIST FOR SUMP PUMP SUCCESS:
- Take off the Cover: Remove the cover to open the sump pump pit or basin. Take a quick look inside. If you see any debris, mud, or rocks, carefully get rid of them. Objects like these can block the sump pump and cause overflow problems.
- Check the Drain Hose: It’s also a good idea to take a close look at the drain hose. So, make sure to check that it’s securely connected and free from any blockages or ice buildup (especially during the winter). If the drain hose is blocked or frozen, your sump pump may keep running non-stop as it can’t effectively remove the accumulated water from its pit.
- Inspect the Inlet Screen: Make sure to clean the inlet screen to allow water to enter the sump pump’s pit. If the screen is blocked, water won’t be able to reach the pit and could lead to a flooded basement.
- Look at the Float Mechanism: Make sure the float mechanism in your sump pump is working properly. It’s responsible for activating the pump to remove excess water. Check that the float can move freely without any blockages. If the float malfunctions, it can either fail to work when needed or run continuously, which could eventually damage the pump’s engine. So, it’s important to keep an eye on it!
- Inspect the Discharge Pipe: Make sure the water from your sump pump flows away from your house. When you hear the pump running, check where the water goes outside. It should be directed far enough to keep your home safe. If it’s too close, the pump might keep running and wear out faster. It’s important to avoid placing the discharge pipe near your home or other structures, but also keep it on your property. Don’t flood your neighbor’s yard! Proper drainage within your property keeps everyone happy.
- Do a Test Run: To get your pump working, just add a bucket of water to the sump pit. Then keep an eye on how it’s performing to make sure it’s removing water efficiently. After that, take a look at the discharge pipe outside to make sure the water is being properly disposed of. If the pump doesn’t start, just double-check that it’s still connected to the power source and that the power cord is in good condition.
- Prepare for the Unexpected: Having a backup battery or generator is super helpful, especially during heavy rainstorms that might cause a power outage. Having a backup plan gives you that extra peace of mind, knowing everything will be taken care of if the power goes out or something unexpected happens.
To make sure your sump pump works well during the coldest months, it’s important to properly winterize it. This will help protect your home from potential water damage. Stay prepared and keep your place safe!
Having trouble with your sump pump? Don’t delay; call Centerville Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 240-0169, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
