Sump Pump Maintenance Guide
At Genz-Ryan Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we know that Twin Cities residents rely on their sump pumps to protect their property from water damage.
While professional maintenance is key to extending the life span of your sump pump, much of the routine maintenance can be done by homeowners.
With our guide to sump pump maintenance, you can have peace of mind that a major storm won’t leave you and your home at risk of flooding.
Know Your Sump Pump’s Service History
It’s critical to know as much as you can about your system, including its age and any prior repairs.
Any sump pump between 7 and 10 years old is more likely to experience issues as it nears the end of its life span.
Know How Your Sump Pump Works
Another important piece of information is the type of sump pump you have.
A submersible sump pump has a motor that works underwater and is in the sump pit, while a pedestal sump pump has a motor raised above the water.
You’ll want to know which type you have to find the proper replacement parts.
Test Your Sump Pump Periodically
One way to ensure that your sump pump is working properly is to test it periodically.
To do this, check that your sump pump is connected to a power source, and then pour water into the sump pit. This should trigger the sump pump to run and empty the water.
If you notice any abnormal function, don’t hesitate to request sump pump repair from a trusted plumber.
Inspect for Signs of Sump Pump Malfunction
Your home’s basement and crawl spaces are left vulnerable to flooding when your sump pump malfunctions.
To protect your home from foundation damage, always be on the lookout for signs that your sump pump has an issue, including:
- Odd noises, such as rattling or grinding
- Excessive vibration
- Short-cycling
- Frequently tripped circuit breaker
- Clogged intake
If water drains slower than usual from the sump pit, it could be an issue with your discharge line. Check for blockages that may inhibit the sump pump’s ability to move water away from your home.
Clean Your Sump Pump & Sump Pit
A clean sump pump and pit allow the system to efficiently remove standing water from your home’s basement or crawl space and maximize the unit’s life span.
To clean your sump pump:
- Turn off the pump.
- Avoid using appliances that drain water, like washing machines or dishwashers.
- Use a garden hose to rinse away any debris.
- Use a scraper to remove caked-on dirt.
- Clear the sump pit with a wet vac.
- Allow the pump to dry.
- Replace the discharge pipe.
- Turn your sump pump back on.
Consider covering your sump pump to protect it from sediment and debris for even greater cleanliness and protection.
Consider a Backup System
Storms and floods can cause power outages, leaving your sump pump with power.
In these scenarios, a water- or battery-powered backup ensure your sump pump can protect your home.
Choose Genz-Ryan for Sump Pump Services in Minneapolis-St. Paul
When your sump pump needs emergency repairs or a complete replacement, trust the team at Genz-Ryan.
We’ve provided the highest quality services and delivered uncompromising customer satisfaction to the Twin Cities since 1950.
Our friendly, licensed, and insured plumbers provide the expert sump pump services you need to ensure your system runs at peak performance.
If you notice any issues when maintaining your sump pump, call Genz-Ryan at (612) 223-6158 or contact us online for fast repair!
