Last month, we wrote a blog post all about sump pumps – what they are and when to install them. Once you have a sump pump, just like with most appliances and home features, you will need to regularly maintain it.
At Marines Service Co., we can help not only with sump pump installations but also with routine maintenance. Here are some of the things we will check for you.
Pump Position
First and foremost, it’s important that the sump pump stands upright. It could fall or tilt when running, which would jam the float arm. When the float arm cannot work as intended, the sump pump won’t turn on at the right time.
The first thing we will check is the positioning of the sump pump.
Power to Your Sump Pump
Sump pumps need to be plugged into a reliable power source. Without a reliable power source, the sump pump may not turn on or work during emergencies. Our expert technicians will make sure your sump pump is working with sufficient power. If you encounter an issue with powering your sump pump, make sure you consult with an expert before making any drastic changes.
Valve & Draining
It is important to regularly test the valve to ensure it is working. If it is working, water will get through easily. If you don’t check this regularly, you are at risk of water flowing back into the basement.
One of the things we want to check is the draining. We will pour water into the pit, checking to see that the pump starts automatically. After that, we want to ensure that the water drains quickly. If it doesn’t start or the water is draining slowly, we will fix it.
Blockages
There are several places within the sump pump system where blockages can build up. One place is the bottom grate. Over time, small stones can become trapped in the gate, damaging the pump or rendering it less effective.
Another place to check is the vent hole in the discharge pipe. We will make sure that this is clear and not blocked by any foreign object.
Outlet Pipes
We will go outside and check the outlet pipes. We want to make sure that they are securely joined together. We will also check the draining, watching to see that the water comes out at a safe distance from the house’s foundation.
The last thing you want is to have a sump pump that does not function correctly resulting in a flooded basement. Call Marines Service Co. today to get your sump pump checked, especially before all the summer storms start!