Sump Pump

What is a Sump Pump?

sump pump maintenance

A sump pump is a small, but powerful, device that is installed in the basement or crawl space of your home. It prevents water from building up in your basement or crawl space by pumping excess water out and away from your home. During heavy rains or periods of extensive moisture build-up, the pump will activate to force water and moisture away from your home. 

If your home is located in a particularly humid area, an area with a high water table, or an area prone to flooding or heavy rain, you should ask a plumber to asses your home. You may need a sump pump to protect your home from water damage. 

Preventative Sump Pump Maintenance

Generally, sump pumps are not high maintenance. They do require regular service, and you should have yours inspected immediately before or after a large storm to check for damage. 

We recommend annual service by a professional to keep your sump pump fine-tuned. Annual service can also help you prepare for high-costs such as major repairs or replacing the pump.  

In between annual service by a professional, you should perform quarterly maintenance yourself. Since your pump may sit unused for weeks or even months, you need to ensure that it is ready for an upcoming storm. Every 3-4 months, ensure that you follow this checklist to maintain your sump pump: 

  • Clean the pump inlet screen
  • Ensure the power cord is connected to the power
  • Test to see if the pump turns on by dumping a bucket of water in to raise the float
  • Check the power cord for breaks
  • Ensure the equipment is standing upright and free of restrictions

sump pump repairHow to Spot Sump Pump Damage

Unfortunately, you may not know that your sump pump isn’t working correctly or has sustained damage until it fails to work during a large storm. (If you perform regular maintenance checks, you might notice damage early.) 

Signs that your sump pump has failed or sustained damage:

  • Standing water under your home or in your basement
  • Increased moisture in your basement
  • Mold growing on objects stored in your basement
  • Rising water in your pump basin during a storms
  • Severe vibrations or clunking noises while the sump pump is on 

Contact Coastal Services for Help

Think you might have a problem with your sump pump? Call Coastal Services! Our trained and professional plumbers will inspect your pump and recommend a course of action to fix or replace the problematic pump.

After hours? No problem! Coastal Services offers 24-Hour Emergency Services! Call or contact us online today to learn more. 

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