Everyone knows that the winter season brings with it colder weather, but it also means the possibility of heavy rains in certain areas. Being prepared for these conditions is important, and if you’re not conducting sump pump maintenance, then you may find yourself in a most unfortunate situation.

The Importance of a Sump Pump

Many homeowners make the mistake of underestimating their need for a sump pump until it’s too late. When heavy rains hit, water can build up in your basement with no place to go. A sump pump works as an insurance policy of sorts, making sure that you’re prepared in the event of excess water down below. In addition to heavy rains, a burst pipe is another great reason why sump pump maintenance is important. No matter the cause, you don’t want the result to be an unwanted swimming area in your home.

Maintenance That You Should Do Right Now

Despite its importance, your sump pump won’t see a lot of use most of the time. It may end up sitting for months without any activity. This is another reason why you should perform these maintenance tasks right now:

  • Check the cord — Make sure that the cord hasn’t been damaged and is connected to the appliance. Since the sump pump isn’t used very operationally, you may have unplugged it and forgotten.
  • Inspect the pump — Remove the pump and look at its condition, then give it a good cleaning. And if that’s not how you’d like to spend your afternoon, call a pro!
  • Grease the bearings — Some pumps require that you grease the pump bearings to keep the device in good working order. If you’re not sure, check the Owner’s Manual or search online using the manufacturer and model number (or call a professional!).
  • Replace the pump — If it’s broken, fix it. The same goes for an ancient sump pump — replace it.
  • Check its operation — To test the sump pump, pour a bucket of water into the sump to raise the float (adjust the float, if needed). If the pump turns on, you’re good to go.

For more expert advice on sump pump maintenance or any other home comfort questions, contact the professionals at Pipe Works Services We’ve been serving the HVAC needs of Morris, Essex, Somerset, and Union counties since 2000.

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