How To Keep Your Sump Pump Happy

7/22/2018 (Permalink)

Keep regular maintenance on your sump pump incase of storm damage

While you know it's important to periodically test your fire extinguisher, replace your smoke detector batteries and winterize your HVAC system, a vital part of home safety maintenance may slip past your radar. Have you thought about your sump pump lately? Taking care of a pump might seem intimidating, but a few easy steps can help keep your pump in good operating condition.

1. Examine your pump. If you haven't performed pump maintenance for a while, start by walking around the pump area. An offensive odor can signal the presence of bacteria in the basin trap. To eliminate the smell, try using a mixture of two parts bleach to 10 parts water. Pour this solution into the basin and repeat until the odor is gone.

2. Clear the basin. Check whether your pump is clean and does not contain foreign objects. Scoop out items such as gravel, toys, pet hair or other debris from the basin. It also helps to remove any water, dirt or random objects on the floor surrounding the pump area.

3. Run a performance test. Switch the sump pump on to see if it pulls water out of the pit area. The pit can be dry during normal operation. In this case, fill the drain with water before the test. To check performance, it may be worthwhile to calendar a monthly reminder. If heavy rains or flood conditions are predicted, you may want to test your pump as soon as possible.

4. Schedule an inspection. An annual examination by a professional inspection service can help ensure your pump is sound and working smoothly. An expert can detect issues before they become major problems.

A well-maintained sump pump is a valuable front-line defense against water damage to your home in Slidell, LA. By performing a few simple steps, you can strengthen your home's umbrella of protection. It's a good thing to do for a rainy day!

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