Spring brings plenty of rain showers and thunderstorms, as well as pools of melting ice and snow. That means your sump pump needs to be ready to keep your home clean and dry. Any homeowner can take a few simple steps to prepare their sump pump before the first thaw—here are a few in more detail.

How to Get Your Sump Pump Ready for Spring

1. Inspect

Ensure the pump is upright and free of damage, and remove any debris that may have accumulated around the pump over the winter. If it has an intake screen, remove and clean it. Check that the power cord is in working condition, with no frays or cracks, and replace or recharge the battery backup to ensure the supplemental power source is juiced up for the season ahead.

2. Test

Pour in enough water to make the float valve lift, and confirm that the pump engages when it's supposed to. Once it's turned on, continue pouring in water and verify that the pump is draining at an appropriate rate. This step also flushes the system, washing away any sediment or debris that may have built up when the pump was dormant.

3. Schedule Repairs or Replacements

Sump pumps don't last forever, and it's not uncommon for parts to break down or become less effective as the years go by. Schedule repairs and order replacement parts as soon as you notice any obvious issues, like a pump that won't start or a slow rate of drainage. If you find that the pump needs more and more repairs with each passing year, a new one is likely in order.

When you need sump pump repairs or installations, contact Lonneman Plumbing of Kenton County, KY. Since 1960, they have been serving customers throughout northern Kentucky. In addition to sump pump work, they offer drain cleaning, toilet repair, water heater installation and maintenance, and other plumbing services. Call (859) 341-7755 or visit them online to request a quote.