Tips to Make Sure Your Sump Pump is Ready for Spring at Your East Mahoning County Home

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let spring showers flood your basement. Here are some helpful tips to be sure your sump pump is working properly!

We all know April showers bring May flowers. But April showers can also increase the amount of water coming into your basement from the winter runoff. Allow SERVPRO of East Mahoning County to give you some tips of how to maintain the sump pump this Spring to prevent unwanted plumbing.

Take the cover off.

Ensure to check the tank for any debris that can block it. Look for things like leaves, gravel, mud, or rocks.

Be sure to flush the system.

To be sure the pump is working properly, you can test it out by “flushing” it out with either a bucket of water or a hose. Be sure to listen to make sure it is not making any odd sounds. The sump pump should be running with ease. If you hear something array, contact your local plumber immediately.

Examine the float.

This is one of the largest reasons for overflow. When testing the sump pump, make sure the float travels easily on the float rod.

Check the discharge pipe.

Just like the tank… make sure the outside discharge pipe is not blocked by anything either. The pipe can become blocked with debris as well. You also want to check the direction of the water. Ensure it is traveling away from your foundation of your home.

Inspect the check valve.

Plumbers suggest at least a 3/16 relief hole between the pump and the check valve for good measure. Ensuring this is at the recommended 3/16 will maintain the life of the pump and prevent failure.

If your Youngstown home does experience water damage this spring… call the water damage experts at SERVPRO of East Mahoning County. Water damage is the cornerstone of our business, and we do it better than anyone else. Visit our website or our Facebook page for more tips of the trade.