Your sump pump has a big responsibility: preventing floods and protecting your home from water damage. Keep the device in good shape, and it will complete this task. Neglect it, and you risk extensive, costly repairs. That’s why Gary’s Pump Service in Danbury, CT, recommends inspecting your sump pump on both a quarterly and annual basis.  

Quarterly Inspection

Sump pump maintenance is easy and takes only a few minutes. Remember to complete these three tasks at least four times a year:

• Disconnect the Power Supply: If you try to inspect your sump pump while it’s on, you risk not only injuring yourself but also damaging the device. So, before you do anything, unplug the power cord.  
• Clean the Pump: Dirt, leaves, and sticks may become trapped in your sump pump. If left alone, this debris can cause the device to malfunction. Gently clean both the grate and inlet opening every three months.
• Reconnect the Power Supply: After cleaning your sump pump, you’ll need to reconnect the power cord. If any water drained from the basin while cleaning, Gary’s Pump Service recommends refilling it, so the device doesn’t operate dry.  

Annual Inspection

To keep your sump pump in top shape, you’ll also need to complete the following tasks once a year:

• Inspect the Power Supply: Again, you’ll need to unplug the power cord for safety purposes. Then, inspect it for wear-and-tear. If the cord is frayed, replace it. Also check that the power source is connected to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
• Examine the Discharge Pipes: The discharge pipe takes water out of the system. Inspect this structure and remove any debris. Also make sure the joints connect tightly and the pipe drains to the proper area — either a main sewage line or your backyard. If your system does the latter, check that the pipe points away from your home’s foundation.   
• Fill the Basin: Lastly, reconnect the power supply and fill the basin with water, as you would during a quarterly inspection. The sump pump should start immediately. This final task ensures that the device is functioning properly.

If you encounter any problems during your quarterly or annual inspection, call Gary’s Pump Service at (203) 744-7826. Their technicians have been in the industry for over 40 years and have both the experience and expertise needed to get your sump pump back in working order. For more on their home water system and water well services, visit them online.