Checking if your sump pump works properly is simple and important to keep your basement dry.
You can ensure your pump is ready to handle any extra water with a few easy steps.
Here, explore some tips to help you quickly check if your sump pump is doing its job.
Key Takeaways
- Check the sump pump for visible cracks, rust, or broken parts.
- Manually lift the float switch to test when the pump turns on.
- Unusual noises like grinding or rattling may cause a problem.
- The check valve stops water from coming back into the sump pit.
- Keeping the pump clean helps it run well and avoids clogs.
- It’s smart to have a pro check your sump pump regularly.
- The discharge location stops water from collecting near your home’s foundation.
7 Tips To See If Your Sump Pump Is Working
Here are seven easy tips to check if your sump pump works correctly and keeps your basement dry.
Tip 1. Visual Inspection
Start by making sure your sump pump is plugged into an electrical opening.
Sometimes, the plug can come loose or get unplugged.
Also, check the circuit breaker to make sure it’s turned on.
If the breaker is off, flip it back on. This ensures the pump has the power to operate.
Look For Any Physical Damage
Next, inspect the sump pump for any visible cracks or signs of wear, like rust or broken parts.
Check the discharge pipe, which is the pipe that carries water away from the pump.
Make sure it’s not clogged or damaged, as blockages can prevent the pump from working properly.
Tip 2. Test The Float Switch
There are two ways to test the float switch:
A. Manual Activation
To test the float switch, which controls when the pump turns on, lift it manually.
The float switch is usually a small, round object that floats on the water.
When you lift it, the pump should start running.
This helps you see if the pump responds to the switch.
B. Automatic Operation
Observe the pump to see if it starts working automatically when the float rises with the water level.
The float switch should rise with the water and trigger the pump to start.
If the pump doesn’t activate when the float rises, there might be a problem with the switch or the pump.
Tip 3. Listen For Proper Operation
There are two kinds of sounds:
A. Normal Sounds
When the sump pump works correctly, you should hear a humming or buzzing noise as it operates.
This sound means the pump is running and moving water out of the pit.
It’s a normal part of the pump’s operation.
B. Abnormal Sounds
If you hear unusual noises, such as grinding, rattling, or clanking, it could be a sign of a problem.
These noises might show that something is wrong with the pump.
It may need repair, like a jammed part or internal damage.
Tip 4. Check For Water Discharge
For this purpose, follow these two steps:
A. Observe Discharge Location
Watch where the water is being pumped out of the house.
It should be flowing away from your foundation and not coming back towards it.
The discharge location helps prevent water from pooling near your home’s base.
B. Measure Water Flow
Look at the amount of water being discharged.
If the water flow is weak or uneven, there could be a problem with the pump or a blockage in the discharge pipe.
A strong, steady flow usually means the pump is working well.
Tip 5. Inspect The Check Valve
The “check valve” stops water from flowing back into the sump pit after the pump removes it.
It helps ensure that the water only goes one way—out of the pit and away from your home.
Inspect the check valve for any signs of leaks or blockages.
Leaks let water flow back into the pit, while blockages prevent proper drainage.
Make sure the valve is clean and functioning correctly.
Tip 6. Perform A Regular Maintenance Routine
For this purpose, you may follow these two steps:
A. Clean The Pump And Pit
Regularly clean both the sump pump and the pit where it sits.
Remove any debris, dirt, or sludge that might have built up.
Keeping the pump clean helps ensure the system works efficiently and prevents clogs.
B. Schedule Professional Inspections
Having a professional inspect your sump pump frequently is a good idea.
They can check for any issues you might not notice and ensure the pump is in good condition.
Regular inspections can help catch problems before they become serious.
Tip 7. Know When To Call A Professional
If you notice these problems:
- The pump not working at all
- Constant strange noises
- Water is still pooling in your basement
It’s time to call a professional.
These signs show serious issues that need expert repair.
For expert help, contact OP Plumbing Hub.
They can give expert advice and fix any problems with your sump pump to ensure it works properly.
Conclusion
This article discusses easy tips to see if your sump pump works well.
Checking your sump pump regularly can help you catch problems early.
Simple tests can keep it running smoothly and protect your home from water damage. Contact OP Plumbing Hub for expert services.