When it comes to preventing flooding in your home, it doesn’t get much safer than having a sump pump. Typically, these water removal devices are located in the basement or other below-ground levels in a home or business because they are the most susceptible to flooding. They collect water in a sump basin, and push it safely away so water can’t pool in the lower parts of a structure. 

After your sump pump is installed, it’s important that they receive some professional TLC every once in a while. During winter and spring when rainfall is more likely, they work overtime to prevent flooding. Water damage is not only expensive to repair, it can be a potential health risk for you and your loved ones. Knowing that your sump pump is in top shape will give you peace of mind as a homeowner. Here are ways that you can help to maintain the one working in your home. 

How Much Do You Know About Your Sump Pump?

It’s important for you to know a little about the sump pump working to keep your home flood free. The two most common types are submersible and pedestal pumps. A submersible pump is located in a sump well and is capable of working under water. It has a float that signals to the pump that water needs to be pushed away from the home. Pedestal pumps have floats too, but they are situated above the well.

Though specifics may vary between models, they are all designed to do the same thing. Perhaps the most important part of a sump pump is the battery backup. Sump pumps work using electricity. In order to be sure that they will continue to work in the event of an outage, a battery backup is necessary. 

Maintenance is Key 

Thankfully, flooding doesn’t happen every day. Because they aren’t needed on a daily basis, it’s possible that they end up lying dormant for a while. Regardless, you want to be sure that they’re ready to work when you need them. Here are a few things that you to check up on your sump pump from time to time: 

• Make sure it’s plugged in and that the cord isn’t damaged or frayed 
• Check the discharge pipe and ventilation for build up 
• Remove any debris you come across
• Test your pump by adding water to the basin 
• Make sure the battery backup is working

These are a few things that you can do on your own, but it’s important to know when you should call a professional. 

When to Call McHale’s

If your sump pump isn’t in working condition, you more than likely won’t know until you have a serious problem. In this light, getting your system evaluated as soon as possible is critical. Look for  these common sump pump problems:

• Clogging in the pipes
• Motor failure
• Inadequate power for your home’s needs

McHale’s is here to help if your sump pump is experiencing problems. Only through routine maintenance can you be granted the peace of mind in knowing that your basement is protected by a functioning sump pump, so call in the experts today.

By McHales