In your basement, your sump pump stands guard around-the-clock, protecting your home from flooding and preventing water damage. Essentially, it works like a massive drain, sucking up water from burst pipes or storms at an impressive rate. But to continue working as it should, you’ll need to keep up with a regular maintenance schedule. Use the following three tips to preserve your sump pump.

3 Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

1. Inspect the Electrical Parts

At least once a year, head down to your basement to perform a brief visual inspection. First, make sure the pump power source is plugged into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), as this will shut off the circuit if it becomes overloaded. Then, look closely at the cable that connects to the pump, keeping an eye out for tears or areas where the cable’s outer surface has worn away.

2. Flush It Out

Next, look at the pump and make sure it’s aligned with the floor, so water can’t pour out. It may shift out of place when in operation, so you should perform this maintenance tip after every storm. To ensure the sump pump is working properly, fill up a bucket of water and pour it into the basin. As soon as the water enters the contraption, it should start to operate automatically. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to call for repairs. 

3. Clean It

Every three months, or each season, you’ll need to clean the screen that filters debris out of your sump pump. Much like an HVAC filter, you’ll need to replace or clean it to prevent a blockage. However, it’s crucial to power off the sump pump, or unplug the power supply, before getting started. If there is no more water in the basin when you’re done, pour some in to prevent the parts from drying out and sustaining damage when it starts working again. 

While these DIY tips are helpful, you’ll need to turn to a professional for sump pump repairs. In the Danbury, CT, area, most homeowners turn to Gary's Pump Service for help. They have been providing services to residential and commercial customers for over 40 years, from water well inspections to pump installations. To learn more about their services, visit the website or call (203) 744-7826.