A sump pump services can prevent a flooded basement and reduce the risk of mold, mildew and structural damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend its lifespan.
If your sump pump makes rattling noises or isn’t functioning as it should, call a licensed plumber. It may be time for an upgrade or replacement.
Installation
A sump pump is installed in a location that collects water, most often a basement or crawl space. The plumber channels the water into a pit or basin, then once the float rises to a certain level, the pump activates and pumps the water away from the house. The plumber may also install a battery backup and alert notifications for extra protection in the event of a power outage or primary pump failure.
After the pump is in place, a plumber will install piping to run from the basin to your home’s exterior and drain sewer line. The piping is often made of PVC, and high-pressure fittings are used to ensure the system can handle the flow.
A sewage lift pump is a crucial plumbing component that helps prevent unsanitary conditions and hazardous health hazards caused by septic tank failure. A sump pump with a sewage lift can help prevent sanitary sewer overflow and ensures that sewage reaches the septic tank or sewer line rather than flooding the basement of your home.
Maintenance
Sump pumps require regular inspections to keep them in tip-top shape. An experienced professional will check for six things during a regular maintenance visit. First, he or she will make sure that the pit is large enough to accommodate your pump and that it has a functioning float. The inspector will also check that the removable cover is a good fit to prevent water from evaporating into your basement and that it has a properly working alarm.
The inspector will also check the discharge location to ensure that it is at least 20 feet away from your home and not draining into your septic system, public sewer, or neighboring properties. In addition, the check valve will be inspected to ensure that it keeps water from flowing back into the pit once the pump turns off.
The plumber will unplug the pump from the pit, remove the grate and drainage pipe, clean the inlet screen or float opening, and check for clogs. Finally, he or she will plug the pump in and pour five gallons of water to verify that it activates and discharges correctly.
Repair
Sump pumps can be one of the most important pieces of equipment in preventing water intrusion into homes. However, like any other home appliances or systems, it may require inspections and repairs to ensure the equipment functions properly.
A faulty or damaged sump pump could cause basement flooding, structural damage and mold growth that can be very costly to repair. A professional plumber can inspect the system and recommend any necessary repairs.
Debris can work its way past the sump pump inlet screen and jam the impeller. It is a good idea to have this area of the sump pump regularly cleaned in order to prevent any major problems.
Another common problem that can occur with sump pumps is a failing motor. It is essential to have the motor repaired as soon as possible to avoid excessive strain that can significantly shorten its life cycle.
Replacement
When the time comes to replace your sump pump, our plumbers can help you choose a new model that will best fit your needs. They will also inspect the area around your sump pit to ensure it is free from debris and can handle the flow of water.
When a new pump is installed, our plumbers will test it by pouring water into the pit and watching for the float switch to activate and remove the water. If the water level does not rise or the pump does not turn on, there could be an electrical problem. Our plumbers can check the wiring, including GFCIs (which have a tendency to trip), and make any necessary repairs.
We can also install a battery backup or alert notifications to prevent flooding in your basement and keep your home safe. These options may add to the total cost of your installation, but they are worth the added peace of mind they provide.