While we might be just a few weeks into spring, it’s never too early to focus on the summer months when it comes to your home’s drainage system. Summer brings longer hours of daylight, higher temperatures and a whole lot of moisture, in the form of rain and thunderstorms.
All of that rain needs somewhere to run and will often find its way into your property’s foundation, so relying on your sump pump to keep those areas free of water can be crucial. But what exactly does a sump pump do? Well, when water enters your basement or crawl space, the pump pulls it away from the foundation and into your home’s drainage system. However, if you neglect your pump and just expect it to work, it could lead to significant problems, so it’s important to ensure it’s working its best, especially as the wettest time of the year approaches.
Knowing Your Type Of Sump Pump Is The First Step
There are two main types of sump pumps, a submersible pump and a pedestal pump. Knowing which type is in your home will help you better maintain your unit and get the most life out of it.
When it comes to sump pumps, there are two primary types. The first is a submersible pump, which sits inside of a reservoir or pit and is submerged during operation – and features a protective waterproof barrier for the motor. It’s typically the more cost-effective option because while it might cost you more at the point of purchase, they typically have a longer lifespan.
The second type is the pedestal pump, consisting of a motor sitting high atop a pedestal, with a hose that goes down into the sump reservoir. Offering less power than its counterpart, due to a reduced motor, the pedestal pump works best when flooding is limited – and is perfect for smaller pits. But because it doesn’t fully sit inside of the pit, the motor is often much louder.
Like anything else in your home, your sump pump will warn you if there’s any trouble but the last thing you want is for it to fail during a torrential downpour. So, checking it and making sure it can handle all of the rain of the summer months can save you from a lot of potential future stress!
Is Your Sump Pump Ready For Summer’s Storms?
To avoid the potential for water damage and mold to your home’s foundation, remain proactive when it comes to your sump pump by checking it often, testing it regularly and keeping it clean.
A sump pump is meant to keep moisture out of your home. Without it, your property could face severe water damage or even mold. Staying proactive, rather than reactive, is the best way to make sure your sump pump is working properly, so here’s how to get your sump pump ready:
- Test It Regularly: Wouldn’t you rather find out it’s not working before relying on it for a massive storm? Check the basin at least once a month, pour water into it so that the float trigger rises and then make sure it activates the pump. If not, there's a problem.
- Check For Power: If your sump pump doesn’t work, the first thing to do is check the electrical access. Be certain the unit is plugged in – and if it is and still not turning on, make sure the electricity is going to that outlet. If that doesn’t work, contact an expert.
Keep It Clean: Take a few minutes to clean out the basin. It’s fine if the water is dark but it shouldn’t be dirty. Turn the pump off, grab some gloves and reach into the water and remove any debris in there, from rocks to sediment to dirt – because it can cause clogs.- Signs Of Aging: Look for aging signs, like rust or corrosion. They’ll happen no matter what the circumstances and this wear and tear will help to determine when to replace it.
- Battery Backup: Sump pumps need electricity, which can go out during a bad thunderstorm, when you need it the most! Check to see if yours has a battery backup, or purchase one that does – even create a plan to connect it to a generator if need be.
- Check It Often: Just keep an eye on it. Stay proactive throughout the summer months, and throughout the rest of the year for the matter. Don’t just expect it to work as usual.
Is your sump pump acting up or does it need to be replaced? Call or schedule an appointment online today and we’ll come out and inspect your pump, before the summer storms roll through.
