Hurricane season runs through late November, but fall is typically drier, making it a smart time to inspect your sump pump. Since your sump pump isn’t usually busy clearing water out of your basement, it’s an ideal time of year to check it for problems. Fall is also ideal if your basement isn’t insulated, since you’ll likely need to inspect some outdoor components of your sump pump system. Here are some things to consider.

Check for Weird Noises

When you turn on the sump pump, it should make a steady humming sound if it’s not pumping out water. If it is pumping out water, you’ll also hear thumps and gurgles. However, if the sump pump squeaks, knocks, clangs, rattles, growls or makes other loud, weird noises, you should call in a professional to check it.

Take a Look Inside

Take a look inside your sump pump. Make sure that there’s no debris inside of it. If there is, turn it off, and clean it out so it can work properly.

Take a Look Outside

Go outside and take a look at the sump pump’s exit pipes. In the fall, it’s easy for leaves and dirt to get into the pipes. These pipes should also be clear of leaves or debris that can cause clogs. If you find debris in the exit pipes, clean it out. You should also make sure the pipes open away from your house. If they show signs of damage, call in a professional.

Check the Power

The sump pump’s float switch and motor have different power sources. To check whether the device is getting enough power, unplug both of them. Then plug in the motor. The sump pump should come back on right away. If it doesn’t, you need to call a professional to repair it, or install a new one. However, if the sump pump comes back on, you can plug in the float switch, and consider all to be well.

Add Water

During the fall, you’ll also need to check if your sump pump can move water. Fill a bucket with water, and slowly pour it into the sump pump. The float switch should rise with the water level. This causes the motor to turn on, and discharge the water.

Your sump pump can be the difference between a basement that experiences catastrophic flooding and one that stays dry even through a hurricane. If your sump pump in Levittown, Pennsylvania needs servicing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our technicians at McHales.