You should know the basics of Sump Pump Maintenance, including the cleaning of the filter screen, impeller and discharge pipe, and testing the battery backup. You may also find it helpful to change the filter if you have experienced clogging in the past. Keeping your pump functioning correctly is critical to your safety. Following these simple steps will keep your equipment in top condition. Read on to learn more. Once you have completed these steps, your sump pump should be ready to deal with any flooding or other emergencies.
Clean The Filter Screen
Cleaning the filter screen during sump pump maintenance can help keep the system running smoothly and efficiently. Ensure that the discharge pipe to the sump basin is clear and unclogged, and check the pump’s on/off switch and float to see if water is draining properly. If not, clean or replace the screen. Once you have cleaned the screen, test the pump by filling a bucket or basin with water and checking for any obstructions. If you notice clogging, replace the lid.
The filter screen is an essential part of sump pump maintenance, so you should check it regularly. Debris and other materials can get stuck in the screen, causing the pump to clog and shut down. Using a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or debris will help prevent this problem. To perform sump pump maintenance, you should always clean the filter screen at least once a year. Clean the filter regularly and keep it clean to prevent the pump from malfunctioning.
Clean The Impeller
One of the most important steps in sump pump maintenance is to clean the impeller. This small filter bolted to the pump can become clogged with debris. When it does, the pump may stop working or start making noise. Cleaning the impeller will restore the pump’s performance. To clean it, follow the steps below:
Check the check valve. Some pumps are not installed correctly, causing water to flow back into the pit when the pump is turned off. Check the arrow on the check valve, which should point away from the sump pump. Clean the weep hole, located between the sump pump installation services and the check valve, with a toothbrush or similar tool. Make sure not to break or remove the weep hole when cleaning the impeller.
Clean The Discharge Pipe
Cleaning the discharge pipe of your sump pump is one of the most important aspects of sump pump maintenance. You can use a wet-dry vacuum to remove excess water and grime, or you can clean the entire device with a plastic cup. After cleaning, reconnect the pump to the discharge pipe and turn the power on. To clean the discharge pipe, remove any debris or small objects that may have become caked inside the pipe. You should check this line at least once a year to ensure that it’s functioning properly.
First, disconnect the sump pump from its discharge pipe. If the discharge pipe is clogged with debris, you can use disinfectant or bleach to clean the pipe. WD-40 is also a good choice for loosening stuck parts. Once this is done, you can reconnect the pump to the basin. Cleaning the discharge pipe will keep your pump working smoothly and prevent any future complications. Clean the pipe as soon as you see any signs of mold and debris.
Check The Battery Backup
Performing routine maintenance on your sump pump is an important part of preventing any disasters. A backup sump pump is only as good as its battery. You should check the battery’s voltage every six months or so to ensure that it is still functioning properly. For this purpose, you need to use a voltmeter or volt-ohm meter. You can get one for a very low cost from a hardware store.
If you have an old sump pump, you may need to use a battery backup to protect it during storms. If the battery is too old, it may malfunction, resulting in flooding. Battery backups are also beneficial if you have an older model. Batteries with a marine rating can withstand the exposure to water better. However, if you plan on replacing the battery often, you should invest in a new one.
Replace The Sump Pump Every 10 Years
If your sump pump is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it. If your house is built below the water line, a broken underground water pipe may be causing your pump to constantly cycle on and off. This flooding could be damaging to your home and destabilize the foundation. If this is the case, it may be necessary to contact a plumber to find out the root of the problem.
To determine whether it’s time to replace your pump, check the level of the water near the sump pit. You can use plastic shims to help level your pump. The float should be level with the bottom of the pit and not touch the sides of the basin. To ensure that the pump functions properly, it needs to be free from obstructions. A pedestal sump pump will feature a pump that sits in the water, and the motor will hang above it. The discharge pipe should be swapped, as well as a check valve.
Check The Discharge Pipe
When performing sump pump maintenance, make sure to check the discharge pipe. A broken discharge pipe will result in water flowing inside your home, causing expensive repairs. The discharge pipe should be easy to remove and replace, and should have an inlet and outlet that drains water from the sump pump. It should also be equipped with a valve, fastening bands, compression nuts, and a check valve assembly.
Occasionally, your sump pump may need to be cleaned to prevent clogs. Debris clogs the discharge pipe, preventing the pump from functioning properly. The pump should start automatically when water fills the basin. However, if the pump fails to activate automatically, the pump may need to be serviced or replaced. To clean the discharge pipe, you can remove the pump and check it for debris. Sometimes, debris may collect inside the discharge pipe, causing the sump to fill without your knowledge.
