Sump pumps are vital year-round, but they assume an even more critical role during the fall and winter months, particularly in areas facing cold weather and snowfall, such as Ohio. To ensure the reliability of your sump pump, diligent care is essential. Here, your experts at Kettering Plumbing & Drain offer valuable insights and guidance for a successful fall maintenance routine to prepare your sump pump for the upcoming colder months.
Your Fall Checklist for Sump Pump Success:
- Take off the Lid of the Sump Pump Pit: Commence your fall sump pump maintenance by opening the sump pump pit or basin. Gently remove its cover and take a moment to inspect the interior. Should you discover any debris, mud, or rocks, promptly remove them. These foreign objects have the potential to obstruct the sump pump, leading to potential overflow issues.
- Check Drain Hose: Carefully examine the condition of the drain hose. Verify its secure connection and ensure it remains free from obstructions or the buildup of ice, particularly as winter approaches. A blocked or frozen drain hose can result in your sump pump operating continuously, hindering efficient water discharge.
- Examine the Inlet Screen: Maintain an unobstructed water entry into your sump pump’s pit by cleaning the inlet screen. A clear inlet screen is crucial to prevent water blockage, reducing the risk of basement flooding.
- Inspect the Float Mechanism: Verify the float mechanism is functioning within your sump pump, as it dictates when the pump activates to remove excess water. Confirm that the float component moves without obstruction. A malfunctioning float can result in operational failures or cause constant running of the pump, which can potentially cause damage to the pump’s engine over time.
- Evaluate the Discharge Pipe: Monitor the direction of water discharged by your sump pump to ensure it flows safely away from your residence. When your sump pump operates, take a moment to inspect the outdoor discharge pipe’s location. Confirm that it directs water to a safe distance from your home. If the discharge point is too close, there’s a risk of water re-entering the pump, causing it to run continuously and inefficiently. Prolonged operation can increase the likelihood of premature wear and tear on your sump pump. Additionally, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance from your home, outbuildings, and other structures, ensuring that the discharge remains within your property boundaries. Discharging excess water onto your neighbor’s property is discouraged, and maintaining proper drainage within your property limits is essential to prevent inconvenience to neighbors.
- Conduct a Test Run: Activate your sump pump by adding a bucket of water to the sump pit. Carefully observe its performance to ensure efficient water removal. If the pump fails to operate, check its power source connection and the condition of its power cord. In the case, it still fails to work, you should call a professional.
- Prepare for Unforeseen Events: Consider the installation of a backup battery or generator, particularly in anticipation of severe rainstorms or power outages. A contingency plan provides peace of mind, ensuring your sump pump continues to function effectively even during unexpected events.
To ensure your sump pump operates flawlessly during the coldest months of the year, proper fall winterization is crucial for your sump pump system to succeed in protecting your home from potential water damage during cold spells.
If you encounter sump pump issues or require professional assistance, do not hesitate to contact Kettering Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 764-3788 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here! We are dedicated to providing expert solutions to safeguard your home and plumbing systems.