Sump pumps are a year-round necessity, but they take on a heightened importance during the fall and winter, particularly in regions prone to cold weather and snowfall, like Ohio. Proper sump pump maintenance is imperative. Today, your experts at Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain provide valuable tips to ensure your sump pump thrives in the upcoming colder months:
Your Fall Checklist for Sump Pump Success:
- Pit Cover Removal: Begin by opening the sump pump pit or basin and gently removing its cover. Once exposed, take a moment to inspect the interior. Should you encounter debris, mud, or rocks, promptly remove them. Foreign objects of this kind can obstruct the sump pump, potentially leading to overflows.
- Drain Hose Examination: Carefully assess the condition of the drain hose. Confirm its secure connection and ensure it’s free from obstructions or winter ice buildup. A blocked or frozen drain hose can force your sump pump to operate continuously, impeding efficient water discharge.
- Inlet Screen Inspection: Maintain the flow of water into your sump pump’s pit by cleaning the inlet screen. A clear inlet screen is vital to prevent water from being blocked, reducing the risk of basement flooding.
- Float Mechanism Check: Verify the optimal operation of the float mechanism within your sump pump, as it governs when the pump activates to remove excess water. Ensure that the float component moves freely without obstructions. A malfunctioning float can lead to operational failures or constant running, potentially damaging the pump’s engine over time.
- Discharge Pipe Review: Monitor the direction of water discharged by your sump pump to ensure it flows safely away from your residence. Then, confirm that it directs water to a safe distance from your home. If the discharge point is too close, there’s a risk of water re-entering the pump, causing it to run continuously and inefficiently. Additionally, it’s vital to maintain a safe distance from your home, outbuildings, and other structures, ensuring the discharge remains within your property boundaries. Discharging excess water onto your neighbor’s property is inadvisable, and proper drainage within your property limits is essential to avoid inconvenience to your neighbors.
- Test Run: Activate your sump pump by adding a bucket of water to the sump pit. Carefully observe its performance to ensure efficient water removal. Subsequently, the discharge pipe outdoors must be inspected to verify proper water disposal. If the pump fails to operate, check its power source connection and the condition of its power cord.
- Emergency Preparedness: Contemplate the installation of a backup battery or generator, especially in anticipation of severe rainstorms coinciding with power outages. A contingency plan provides peace of mind, ensuring your sump pump continues to function effectively even during unforeseen events.
In order to guarantee the seamless operation of your sump pump during the coldest months of the year, proper fall winterization is vital for your sump pump system’s success!
Should you encounter any sump pump issues or require professional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact call Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 764-3381 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here! We are dedicated to providing expert solutions to protect your home and plumbing systems!