Spring promises sunshine and blue skies, but the season also brings with it a higher likelihood of frequent rain. To prevent wet weather from causing issues in your home during the season of renewal, it’s essential to make sure that your sump pump is in good condition. Here’s what you should do to prepare it for those spring showers.

A Guide to Sump Pump Preparation for Springtime

1. Perform a Visual Inspection

Begin by inspecting the pump for any visible signs of damage. There may be some debris accumulated around it and on the intake screen, which the pump can pull into its system when it runs. Clear away any pebbles, mud, gravel, dirt, or other grime that you find to prevent blockages from occurring. Check the pump’s position, too. Vibrations that occur during operation can cause it to tilt, so make sure to reconfigure it so that it’s upright.

2. Confirm That It’s Operable

Once it’s clean, make sure that the pump works. Fill a bucket with water and slowly pour it into the pit. When the float switch detects that there is an elevated water level, it should immediately lift and activate, then drain the water through the discharge line. If water refills in the pit when the pump turns off, it’s a sign that there’s a problem with the check valve. Check the weep hole, or the small opening on the check valve, to make sure there’s no debris lodged inside. Clear it out with a toothpick, then test the pump again.

3. Check the Backup Battery

When a power outage occurs, it will prevent the pump from working unless you have a backup battery installed. Make sure that this vital part hasn’t reached the end of its useful life, as they can last upwards of five years, depending on how often it runs. Some also require distilled water, which you should add every six months or as often as the manufacturer’s guidelines recommend.  
 

Homeowners throughout Southwest Missouri trust in the qualified professionals at Hewitt-Messenger Well Drilling & Pump Service for all of their sump pump needs. Proudly serving clients in Branson, Ozark, Rogersville, Republic, and Springfield, the company offers pump service and installation, residential water treatment, and UV disinfection systems to ensure that your household supply is clean and pure. Visit their website for more information, or call (417) 725-8816 today to schedule an initial appointment.