In Lombard and across DuPage County, spring storms and melting snow put sump pumps to work for weeks at a time. When a pump fails, a finished basement can flood in a matter of hours. A few minutes of maintenance a couple of times a year is the easiest way to avoid that.
Your Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist
Every 3 to 4 Months
- Do a bucket test. Slowly pour a bucket of water into the pit. The float should rise, the pump should turn on, empty the pit and shut off on its own.
- Check the power. Make sure the pump is plugged in and the outlet or GFCI has not tripped.
- Listen for trouble. Grinding, rattling or humming without pumping are signs something is wrong.
Once a Year (Before Spring)
- Clean the pit. Remove dirt, gravel and debris that can jam the float or clog the intake.
- Inspect the check valve. It keeps pumped water from flowing back into the pit. A failing check valve makes the pump work twice as hard.
- Check the discharge line. Make sure water exits at least several feet from your foundation and the line is not frozen, crushed or clogged.
- Test the backup. If you have a battery backup pump, test it and check the battery age. Most batteries need replacing every few years.
When to Replace Your Sump Pump
Most sump pumps last about 7 to 10 years. Consider replacing yours if it is approaching that age, runs constantly, cycles on and off rapidly, or has visible rust and corrosion. Replacing it on your schedule is far better than discovering it failed during a storm.
Do You Need a Battery Backup?
Severe storms often knock out power at the exact moment your sump pump is needed most. If you have a finished basement or store anything valuable below grade, a battery backup pump is inexpensive insurance.
Get Your Sump Pump Storm-Ready
Plumbing Lombard provides sump pump repair, replacement and battery backup installation throughout Lombard, Wheaton, Glen Ellyn and nearby towns. Call (630) 403-0888 to schedule service.
