The basics
Your sump pump collects groundwater from the weeping tile around your foundation and pushes it outside before it can reach the basement floor. It has a few parts that matter: the pit, the pump, a float switch that turns it on, a check valve that stops water flowing back, and a discharge pipe leading outdoors. When any one of them fails, the whole system fails.
Most pumps last around seven to ten years. Regular checks will not make a worn pump new, but they reveal problems while there is still time to fix them.
Step by step
Every three months
- Unplug the pump and look into the pit. Remove leaves, gravel, toys and anything else that could jam the float.
- Plug it back in and pour in water until the float rides up.
- Watch it switch on, lower the water and switch itself off.
- Listen for grinding or rattling, which suggests a worn impeller.
- If water slides back down the pipe into the pit once the motor stops, which points to a failing check valve.
Each spring and fall
- Walk outside and confirm the discharge pipe is clear and lets go two metres or more out from the wall.
- Make sure the outlet is not buried in snow or ice in winter.
- Test the outlet the pump uses, or confirm a GFCI has not tripped.
- If you have a battery backup, check the battery date and run its test function.
Once a year
Lift the pump out and rinse the intake screen. Clear silt from the bottom of the pit. Look at the pit liner for cracks, and check the discharge pipe joints for leaks.
Small upgrades that help
A water alarm placed beside the pit costs little and sounds if the water rises too high. A tight-fitting lid keeps debris out and reduces humidity. If your pump sits on loose gravel, a flat stone or brick base keeps it level and away from silt.
Time to bring in the shop
Some signs mean it is time for professional help.
- The pump hums but does not move water
- It runs constantly, even in dry weather
- The pump is past seven years old and showing any warning signs
- You notice water seeping through the floor near the pit
- The pit overflows during heavy rain despite the pump running
We replace failing units with pumps sized to your pit and lift. See sump pump replacement, or if your home has no pump at all, sump pump installation. Pairing a pump with a battery backup protects you when storms knock out power. For a broader seasonal routine, see the spring plumbing checklist.
Asked at the shop counter
When should the pump be tested?
Every three months, plus before spring melt and after any long dry spell.
My pump runs constantly in April. Is that a problem?
Yes, during snowmelt and heavy rain. Running constantly in dry summer weather is not normal.
Can I add bleach or vinegar to the pit?
A small amount of vinegar water can help with odour, but avoid harsh chemicals that may damage seals.
Questions about this job? Call (365) 413-9125 and talk to a plumber.