Sump pumps are super important plumbing components that work year-round. But during autumn and winter, especially in chilly regions with snow, they play a particularly crucial role due to the extra rainfall and snowmelt mother nature so graciously deems us worthy to be presented with. That’s why, for us Ohio residents, keeping sump pumps well-maintained is a must. But no worries: we’re here to help you ensure your sump pump performs its best in the upcoming colder months. So, without further ado, here’s your fall checklist for a successful sump pump season, brought to you by your experts at Springboro Plumbing & Drain!
Your Fall Sump Pump Checklist:
Step 1: Remove the lid from the sump pump pit. Start by lifting the cover from the pit or basin. Once you see inside the pump, check for any debris, particles, or rocks and remove them carefully. These objects can clog the pump and cause overflow problems, which we definitely want to avoid.
Step 2: Next, consider the drain hose. Make sure it keeps a secure connection and stays clear of any obstacles or ice buildup, especially during the winter. A clogged or frozen drain hose not only keeps the sump pump running continuously but also prevents proper water discharge from the pit. So, it’s a good idea to check the drain hose regularly throughout the year.
Step 3: Now, focus your attention on the inlet screen. The inlet screen is super important on our checklist because it helps water get into the sump pump’s pit, where it can kick into gear and do its job as intended. If it gets clogged, it can mess up water flow and cause plumbing disasters like flooding. So, be sure to add this specific component to your list as something you just want to check on every now and then.
Step 4: Also, don’t forget about the float mechanism! It’s important to ensure that the float mechanism is still functioning properly and remains in good condition. This crucial component determines when the pump activates to remove excess water. So, it’s just as important to confirm that the float mechanism is working. A malfunctioning float can cause the pump to fail when needed or also lead to a nonstop running pump, potentially damaging the sump pump’s engine over time.
Step 5: Do a test run. You can give your sump pump a test by pouring a bucket of water right into the sump pit. Keep a close eye on how it performs and see if it does a good job of getting rid of the extra water. If the pump doesn’t work, make sure to check the power connection and make sure the power cord isn’t damaged or faulty.
Step 6: Ensure the proper placement of the discharge pipe, as it is responsible for diverting excess water away from your residence. It is crucial to verify that the water is being discharged effectively to prevent any seepage back into the pump, which can lead to future issues. But keep in mind, you also want to make sure you don’t place the discharge pipe too close to your neighbors’ homes, structures, or other buildings. It also needs to be kept within your property boundaries. It’s not advisable to unload excess water onto your neighbor’s property. So, just remember to maintain proper drainage within your own property lines.
Step 7: Have an emergency plan formed. Sometimes, unexpected things happen, such as severe storms or power outages. For this reason, having a backup battery or generator on hand is really handy. By being proactive and having a contingency plan in place, you can have peace of mind. You’ll know that if there’s a power disruption or some unexpected situation, you’ve got all the precautionary measures covered.
These tips will help you keep your sump pump system in good shape and provide the necessary protection against water damage and plumbing issues during the cold season.
If you encounter any issues with your sump pump, do not delay; call Springboro Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 912-1338, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
