Water damage is one of the worst experiences you can have as a homeowner. If your home has a basement, installing a sump pump is necessary. It is designed to protect your home from below-ground wetness and flooding.
A plumber usually installs a sump pump at the lowest point in the basement. If groundwater seeps into the basement, the device pumps it out of the building through a discharge line. However, out of sight is out of mind. If you have a sump pump in your home, you must check your sump pump to ensure that it is functioning as it should.
Sump Pump Repair Egypt PA: Why You Should Check Your Sump Pump
In this article, we discuss five reasons you might want to check your sump pump:
1. Regular Sump Pump Maintenance
As a homeowner, you must examine your sump pump every 2 to 3 months. It is essential to make sure the device is working correctly before the rainy season comes. Test the pump by pouring water into the sump pit. The water should be carried away through the discharge line and out of the house with no issues.
If the device is not working correctly, check if the float is restricted. Vibrations can cause the pump to tilt to the side, limiting the movement of the float. Keep the pump upright to allow the float to move freely. Sump pump maintenance is vital to ensure the reliability of performance.
2. Know When You Need A Sump Pump Replacement
A quality sump pump can last up to 15 years with normal wear and tear. However, the lifespan of the pump can be affected by several factors, including frequency of use and regular maintenance. If you live in a relatively wet area, expect the unit to wear out earlier even with proper maintenance.
An old pump tends to fail during the rainy days. Make sure a professional plumber inspects and maintains the sump pump at least once a year. The plumber can determine if the unit needs a replacement.
3. Clogged Discharge Lines On Your Sump Pump
Keep the discharge lines free of obstructions at all times. When you pour water into the sump pit, the pump should activate and discharge the water freely. If there is backflow, check the discharge pipe and remove any dirt or debris.
As a precaution, place a grate drain cover over the drainpipe to prevent debris from obstructing water flow. The cover can get clogged over time, so make sure to check for obstructions regularly.
4. Faulty Float And Switch
A defective switch can cause mechanical issues with the sump pump in your home. If the float gets stuck between the pump and the sump pit wall, it will not turn the switch on. This can be fixed easily by adjusting the sump pump upright to allow the float to move freely.
If you are experiencing heavy rains, debris can jam the float. Clear the area near the sump pump of any debris that may cause issues with the float. Removing debris from the basement will also prevent the drain system from clogging.
5. Power Failure & Your Sump Pump
Bad weather can cause power failures, rendering the sump pump useless. The best prevention strategy is to install a battery-powered backup system to keep the sump pump running even when the power is out. Install a surge protection device as well to prevent damage from a power spike. Lastly, have a backup generator ready, in case all else fails.
Call Robinson Plumbing For All Of Your Plumbing Needs
The sump pump protects your home from flooding and water damage. With that in mind, ensure that the system is working correctly at all times. Regularly check the discharge lines and keep them free of obstructions.
As a responsible homeowner, have a professional plumber inspect the sump pump at least once a year. A routine check can determine if there are issues with the pump or if it needs a replacement.
When searching for reliable plumbing services, be sure to call Robinson Plumbing. We offer sump pump repairs, water heater installations, water leak repairs, toilet replacements, and much more. Our licensed and experienced plumbers have the knowledge to diagnose any issues that you may be experiencing accurately. Furthermore, they can offer you a wide range of solutions when possible so that you can select the option that works best for you.
Get your home back in working order by using our affordable and highly professional services. Call Robinson Plumbing now to schedule a free, in-home estimate.
Some of the areas we service include Allentown, Catasauqua, Coplay, Egypt and these zip codes 18101, 18032, 18037, 18052 as well as all surrounding areas in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!