🏚 Home Tips Issue #8: How to Test Your Sump Pump: The Simple Hack Every Homeowner Should Know

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🚀 Quick and Easy Sump Pump Test: Protect Your Home from Water Damage

Before the next big storm rolls in, make sure your sump pump is ready to keep your basement dry.

Testing your sump pump is a quick and easy task that can save you from costly water damage and a whole lot of stress.

In this issue, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to ensure your sump pump is in tip-top shape, so you can rest easy knowing your home is protected.

• Prevent Costly Flood Damage: Regular testing helps you catch issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing your sump pump is working properly lets you sleep better at night, especially during a storm.

• Simple Process: Testing your sump pump is quick and easy, requiring just a few basic steps.

• Extend Lifespan: Routine checks can help prolong the life of your sump pump by ensuring it stays in good working condition.

• Messy Work: Depending on your setup, it might involve dealing with some water and getting a bit dirty.

• Time-Consuming: If issues are found, troubleshooting and repairs can take time.

• Possible Malfunctions: You might discover that your pump needs repairs or replacement, which could be costly.

• Seasonal Maintenance: You’ll need to repeat this process regularly, especially before heavy rains or spring thaws.

🏡 How to instructions

⏱ Time to Complete: 2-3 Minutes

You’ll need:

• A screwdriver

• A bucket or large container

• A gallon or two of water

• Flashlight (optional, for better visibility)

Steps:

1. Locate the Sump Pump: Find your sump pump, usually in the basement or crawl space, and identify the sump pit where it’s housed.

2. Remove the Cover: Take the cover off by removing the screws

3. Inspect the Pump: Visually check the pump and the pit for any debris, corrosion, or obvious signs of damage. A flashlight will come in handy here.

4. Test the Float Switch: If there is water in the sump simply lift the float switch (it looks like a ball). If there isn’t any water then slowly pour water into the sump pit until the float switch rises. The pump should kick on automatically and start draining the water. It will automatically shut off when the water level drops.

5. Monitor the Discharge: Ensure the water is being pumped out properly through the discharge pipe. Listen for any unusual noises, which could indicate a problem.

6. Replace the Cover: Put the cover back in place and reinstall all the screws.

7. Check the Backup: If your system has a battery backup, test it by disconnecting the main power and repeating the test.

✔ Tips & Tricks

• Test your sump pump every 3-4 months, or before heavy rains or melting snow is expected. You don’t have to test when it’s well below freezing.

• Remove the outside discharge hose for winter. If you don’t the hose could freeze up and your pump will burn itself out trying to pump water through a frozen (plugged) hose.

• Consider investing in a water alarm that alerts you if the water level in the sump pit gets too high.

• Clean the sump pit to prevent debris from clogging the pump.

• Note: There is normally a little water left in the sump after the pump stops, there may even be a little come back into the sump through the pump and hose. This is normal.

🛠 When to call a Pro

• If your sump pump fails the test or makes strange noises during operation and you don’t know how to replace the pump, it’s time to call a professional.

• If the pump is running continuously and is hot. The water in the sump should not be hot.

• Persistent issues like frequent cycling or a pump that doesn’t turn on/off as expected should be inspected by a pro.

• If your sump is full of water and the pump is not coming on.

• If your discharge pipe is frozen or clogged and you’re not sure how to clear it, get a professional to handle it.

Transform your home with confidence, one tip at a time!

Ron
The Handy Homeowner

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