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Having a sump pump break down in a bad rainstorm can mean damage to your home. To make matters worse, sump pumps always seem to go out in the middle of the night when the inconvenience is greatest. Testing a sump pump periodically will help avoid problems and keep your home protected.

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is used to pump out water that has been collected in a sump basin or pit. They are installed in basements or crawlspaces and water is funneled into the sump pit through drains and then pumped away from the home to keep it dry.

Keep these maintenance tips in mind to keep your sump pump working when you need it most.

  • Test your sump pump. Testing a sump pump can be done in two ways. First, simply lift the pump float high enough to engage the pump. If it turns on, it’s working. A better test, however, is to fill the sump pit with water until the pump engages and then ensure that the water is pumped out effectively.
  • Your sump pump should be tested frequently during the rainy months as summer storms can strike hard. It should also be tested periodically throughout the winter, and before the spring warm-up – especially if there has been a lot of snow. Large amounts of snowmelt can cause flooding as quickly as rain can.
  • When testing a sump pump, take a moment to check the rest of the system for problems. Lift the lid of the sump pump and remove any dirt or debris. Clean any debris from the sump pit that may accumulate. Locate the outlet pipe outside of the home and check it for debris, cracks, or any obstructions. Make sure the pipe is pointed away from the home.

For more information on sump pumps, including backup generators for when the power goes down, please contact us at Pipe Works Services. We’ve been keeping northern New Jersey homes comfortable and dry for more than a decade.

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