Guide: pumps
A Seasonal Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist
Sump pumps rest for weeks, then have to work at the worst possible time. This short checklist keeps it ready for spring thaw and summer storms.
- Check the float. It should move freely without catching on the pit wall or cords.
- Clean the pit. Remove silt, gravel and debris that could clog the intake.
- Unplug the primary pump, fill the pit and confirm the backup takes over.
- Check the battery date and charge indicator.
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Every spring and fall
- Confirm the power supply. Confirm the cord is in and the receptacle has power. If it is on a ground fault outlet, test it.
- Test the pump. Empty a pail into the pit and confirm that the motor kicks in, clears it and switches off.
- Check the float. It should move freely without catching on the pit wall or cords.
- Clean the pit. Remove silt, gravel and debris that could clog the intake.
- Inspect the discharge. Check the pipe outside is clear and water flows away from the foundation.
- Listen to the check valve. Once the motor stops, nothing should drain back down into the pit.
In winter, make sure the outdoor discharge line is not frozen or buried in snow. A blocked line makes the pump useless.
Battery backup
- Unplug the primary pump, fill the pit and confirm the backup takes over.
- Check the battery date and charge indicator.
- Replace batteries as the manufacturer recommends.
Time to phone us
Phone us if it hums without moving water, never shuts off, cycles on and off rapidly, or makes grinding noises. Also call if the pit fills faster than usual or water enters the basement. See sump pump repair and battery backup sump pumps.
Questions we get about this
When should an aging sump pump be swapped out?
Pump life varies widely with duty; a hard-working unit wears out years sooner than an idle one. Replace an old pump before it fails rather than after a flood.