Keep Your Sump Pump Performing

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Photo of a sump pump failure from a home in the Green Bay area

Only a week after experiencing an APRIL blizzard, Northeast Wisconsin is enjoying a warm up. And as about two feet of snow starts to melt rapidly, we at SERVPRO of West Brown County have been busy.

One issue that’s come up from several clients over the last few days is sump pump failure. When a sump pump fails, that can lead to water in your basement and other parts of your home. That rogue water can go on to cause property damage.

So, we thought now might be a good time to put out some friendly reminders about sump pumps!

First, what exactly is a sump pump?

Well, a sump pump, is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a pump that’s often connected to your home’s electrical system. The pump is used to remove any water that collects in your home’s sump basin. The sump basin is typically in your basement to collect any water that makes its way inside thanks to issues like rain or ground water.

If the pump fails for whatever reason, any water that collects in the sump basin can eventually overflow into the basement and beyond. Because of that, some of the pumps come with battery-powered back-ups. HOWEVER, they don’t all have back-ups!!

And now is the moment we encourage you to check your sump pump to ensure it’s working properly! Here’s what you need to look for or do:

• If it’s running and seems to be running smoothly, that’s good!
• If the sump pump is not running, look a little closer to make sure it’s in good condition:
• Make sure the pump is upright.
• Check for any signs of damage, wear, or tear.
• Clean any dirt or debris out of the sump pit.
• You can test the pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit. If the pump activates and the water drains quickly you’re in good shape.
• If the pump does not activate or appears damaged in anyway, fix it or call for maintenance right away.

Now that you’re back from checking your sump pump, if you’ve found it quit on you leaving water where it doesn’t belong, give us a call. We are here for you at 920-434-8224!

If everything is in order, that’s great news! Enjoy the warm weather!

Either way, experts recommend giving your sump pump a checkup once a year, but it certainly can’t hurt to do so more often if rain storms, snow melts, or any surprise spring blizzards are in the forecast