Your sump pump is an important plumbing fixture that keeps your home safe from flooding. The sump pump keeps water from collecting by redirecting storm, snow melt, and other water away from under the home. It is usually located in the basement and is separate from the main plumbing system. Maintaining your sump pump is crucial to protect your home from water damage, especially during the spring as snow starts to melt.
3 Tips to Maintain Your Sump Pump
Follow these tips to keep your sump pump working properly:
- Recognize Signs of Damage – Being able to identify signs of wear, tear or other damage on your sump pump will help you get it fixed and keep it working properly before the problem can progress. Learning to recognize the signs of something wrong with your sump pump will protect your home from water damage and increase the longevity of your system. Listen closely to identify any changes in the sounds your sump pump is making. If the sump is reaching capacity before the pump kicks in, it is likely not working its best and you should call a trusted plumber in Edmonton to help. Drastic engine noises or after years of continued use, getting your sump pump inspected by a professional is a good idea. Sump pump alarms can also give a more obvious warning if you don’t spend much time in your basement or are unsure about differentiating between engine noises.
- Run a Test – Test your sump pump’s functionality so that you don’t run into any big surprises or problems during the next downpour. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and, if all is working properly, the pump should remove the water and shut off within minutes. Clean the sump pit by removing any dirt or debris that has found its way in. A clean sump will allow the basin to be filled with water and the pump to work more efficiently. Not sure about testing it yourself? Always Plumbing has plumbers who can help.
- Make a Maintenance Appointment – While the test is a good indicator of a problem, your sump pump is a lot like your health – maintenance is the key to ensuring a longer life! It is easy to forget about the system since it is detached from the rest of your plumbing, but getting it checked will keep it in better condition. Insurance companies recommend annual servicing by a skilled plumber in order to keep the system working at optimal performance and to protect your other valuables and home foundation from water damage. Don’t wait for a problem to arise to get your sump pump checked out by a friendly and professional plumber at Always Plumbing.
The team at Always Plumbing & Heating is here to install, service and maintain your sump pump and other plumbing systems throughout your home. If you have a plumbing or heating issue that needs resolving, our trained plumbers and technicians can get the job done quickly and correctly. Contact us in Edmonton today to get your sump pump working its best.
Call us at 780-489-8118 for assistance or to schedule an annual sump pump maintenance appointment. You can also reach us online.
