Do Sump Pumps Need to Be Serviced?

A sump pump can prevent groundwater from seeping into your basement and remove water if your basement floods. Homeowners often wonder, do sump pumps need to be serviced? A sump pump requires routine maintenance, as well as periodic inspections and service from a professional.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

A sump pump rests in a lined hole called a sump pit. When water in the hole reaches a predetermined level, the sump pump turns on and removes it. When the water level falls back to a safe level, the pump shuts off. 

How Can You Take Care of Your Sump Pump?

You can perform some DIY maintenance to keep your sump pump working properly. If it drains water from the washing machine, you should remove the pump from the pit and clean the screen or inlet opening once a month to get rid of any blockages and protect the pump from damage. If your sump pump is not responsible for removing washing machine water, you should still clean the pump at least every few months.

Every quarter, you should make sure that the sump pump is plugged into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet, that the cord isn’t damaged, and that the breaker hasn’t tripped and shut off the pump. Check that the pump is upright, pour water into the pit, and make sure that the pump turns on immediately and the water drains quickly.

Inspect the outlet pipes to make sure that they are securely connected and that the discharge pipe isn’t blocked. Water should drain a minimum of 20 feet from your house.

Your sump pump also needs annual maintenance. Pull the pump out of the pit and clean both the pump and the pit. Check the power cord, disconnect the power, clean the grate and the screen or inlet opening, and inspect the drainage pipes. Then return the pump to the pit and fill the pit with water. If your sump pump has a battery backup, check the owner’s manual for information on how to maintain it. 

When Do Sump Pumps Need to Be Serviced by a Professional?

Your sump pump also requires professional maintenance once a year. A technician will inspect the pit, check valve, alarm, backup power source, cover, and discharge location. Tri-County Water Services can conduct a thorough inspection and perform any required maintenance or repairs. Call (610) 857-1740 to schedule an appointment.