Of all the different steps you can take to prevent your basement from significant flooding, a working sump pump is one of your best lines of defense. Whether it's from a heavy rainfall or burst pipes, your sump pump can go a long way in preventing a major disaster.
Your sump is designed to automatically kick on and pump out any excess water from your basement to prevent potentially costly damage. You may not need your sump pump very often, but it’s important to know how to properly care for it. You always want to be sure that your sump pump is ready and working when you do need it.
Test Your Sump Pump
There may be long stretches of time that your sump pump doesn't kick on, so it’s beneficial to test it out regularly to make sure that it’s still in working order. You can do this by slowly pouring water into the well of the pump, allowing the float ball to rise. When it reaches the set height, your sump pump should automatically turn on. Make sure the sump pump kicks off once the excess water is pumped out and repeat the process just to be safe.
Clean The Pump Itself
Before cleaning the pump, make sure to unplug your sump pump from its power supply to prevent electric shock. Put plastic around the bottom of the pump for easy cleanup, then give the pump a nice wipe down to remove any residue.
Check The Discharge Line
The water from your basement is pumped away from your property via the sump pump's discharge line. However, if that line is obstructed by dirt or vegetation, the water may not drain fully. This can become a problem in the colder months if water in the discharge line freezes and ruptures it.
Lubricate The Pump’s Bearings
Consult your sump pump owner’s manual or contact a plumbing service before doing this, as some sump pumps benefit from this while others may not. The sump pump manual may recommend a certain grease or oil to lubricate the bearings of your pump. This can ensure it runs smoothly.
A sump pump can be a real lifesaver that prevents a plumbing emergency, so keeping it in good working shape is essential. If you need help with sump pump installation, maintenance, or any other type of plumbing services in Springfield Missouri, reach out to us at United Plumbing. Our professional plumbers can be there day or night to assist you.