A
sump pump can work wonders for homeowners who have problems with
water in their basement. To get the most out of your sump pump and
avoid any problems, however, you need to operate and maintain the
unit properly. Here is a look at some of the best tips for homeowners
who have these helpful devices in their basements.
Cleaning
the Pump
Most
sumps pumps have a filter called an inlet screen that prevents dirt
and debris from getting into the device. If debris gets into the
pump, the components could be damaged, and the pump will not operate
effectively. The Sump and Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association
advises homeowners to clean the inlet screen every three or four
months.
If
your sump pump is hooked up to dispose of the discharge from a
washing machine, then you need to check the inlet opening for dirt or
debris even more frequently. Before taking a sump pump out of the
sump, which is the hole or pit in which it sits, make certain that
you unplug the unit from any and all electrical outlets.
When
you take the pump out of the sump for cleaning, remove any debris
that has fallen into the pit. Also, take a rag and wipe off any dirt
or grime from the pump's exterior.
Check
the Discharge Pipe and Drainage System
The
discharge pipe drains water from the pump to the outside of your
home, and you should make sure it stays clean and clear. To avoid any
issues with water collecting around your home's foundation, make
certain that the discharge pipe empties at least 20
feet
away
from the house. Also, do not let any water drain onto a neighbor's
property.
Some
homeowners are tempted to let the discharge pipe empty into the sewer
drain, but most municipalities have ordinances that prohibit water
from sump pumps getting into municipal sewer lines. Municipal sewer
lines can back up if they are overwhelmed by water that is pumped out
of the basement after heavy rain.
Also,
if you have a septic tank, experts recommend that you do not drain
the water from the pump into your septic system.
A
great way to avoid any drainage issues is to install a dry well on
your property. A dry well is a system that uses a container buried
underground to collect the sump pump discharge and slowly release it
into the soil. The container has small perforations, which ensures
that an excessive amount of water does not enter the soil too
rapidly.
Test
the Sump Pump
To
make certain that your pump is operating as it should, test
it
every
few months. Unplug all electrical cords from the pump and pour water
into the pit. Plug the cords back into the outlet. When the water
reaches about 8 to 12 inches below the top of the pit, the unit
should begin pumping water out of the basement.
Look
at the Battery
Most
sump pumps use electricity as a power source, but storms and other
issues can lead to outages, causing the pump to cease operation. To
prevent a power outage from affecting your pump, have a battery
backup installed to ensure that the pump continues to operate at all
times. If you have a battery installed, make sure to check it to
ensure it’s ready to kick on at a moment’s notice.
A
sump pump in your home is one of the best ways to deal with the issue
of water in the basement. Even if you follow all the tips and
recommendations listed above, however, your pump may still need the
attention of a professional, such as the experienced service
technicians at Complete Plumbing.
We
can install a sump pump for you or make any necessary repairs to one
that you already have in your home.
Contact
us
to
learn more.
