Damage from water is among the most frequent problems the average homeowner encounters. It is a disaster that can destroy belongings, and cleaning can be costly and complicated. In this battle to fight flood damage, the sump pumps could be the saving grace for homeowners.
Suppose you’ve recently moved to a new residence. In that case, you may not know whether a sump pump is in place or its precise location of operation. All homeowners must become acquainted with this system and learn how it has to get maintained throughout the year.
What Is the Sump Pump?
Sump pumps typically are located within small sump pits at the basement floor’s lowest level. They are used to collect and move away groundwater that has gotten into a drainage pipe of the foundation. In the event of plumbing problems, flooding, rainy, or flood season, sump pumps may be utilized to facilitate the removal of large volumes of water from the basement.
Types of Sump Pumps:
Pedestal and Submersibles are the two significant types of sump pumps that get employed in residential. Pumps that are pedestal-type are cost-effective. They require less maintenance; they last longer but make lots of noise. However, submersible sump pumps are quieter. But, they do suffer from a lot of wear, and maintenance isn’t easy since the submersible pumps get situated in a wet sump pit.
The Annual Maintenance Checklist:
Maintaining a sump pump in the best working condition isn’t difficult. It gets suggested that the sump pump be held at least once a year, in the springtime, during spring cleaning. Below is a complete list of maintenance for your sump pump.
- In the first place, the primary pump must be connected to the power source and turned on. If you plug the pump into an outlet, ensure there is a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) in the outlet that gets tripped.
- Put the contents of a bucket into the pit to test the pumps’ performance. The pump should turn on automatically, taking just a few seconds to push the water out. The sump pumps utilize floating floats that quickly become stuck in sediment or dirt. So, if your pump won’t turn on once it’s turned on, you can try removing the floating part.
- It is time to remove the pump’s connection to the discharge line and power source. Clean all parts accessible by removing dirt, sediment, and other small stones. Clean the pit in the sump when it’s become dirty. Also, take the grate of the pump and clean it up separately.
- The pump’s drain tube to look for any clogs. Small stones that block water flow can become trapped in the grate, the discharge line, and the pump.
- To ensure the battery backup system is functioning, perform maintenance specific to your model.
Alongside the annual maintenance and the bucket filled with water, check the sump pump every month. Diagnosing a problem with the pump during a controlled test rather than at night is recommended.
All of your plumbing needs are our priority at Ottawa Plumbing Service. We offer affordable prices and guaranteed service. Please call (613) 317-1682 or email info@ottawaplumbingservice.com if you have any inquiries concerning your sump pump.
