The eastern coast of New Jersey has steady precipitation and barely rises much above sea level. So, it’s critical that to perform regular sump maintenance if you have a basement.

Your sump pump removes excess water from your basement or other low-lying areas of your home. But it requires a few simple tasks to ensure that it’s there when you need it.

There When You Need It

Having a basement means extra storage and even extra living space. However, it’s not useable space if a heavy rainfall means a squelchy rug or water-soaked belongings because of flooding.

Monthly Sump Pump Maintenance

If you have your washing machine installed in the basement, and it empties into your sump pump, you’ll need to check it on a monthly basis:

  • Unplug your sump pump and remove the inlet screen.

  • Remove any lint or other debris from the screen.

  • Reconnect the pump

Quarterly Sump Pump Maintenance

If you don’t have your washer or other appliance emptying into your sump, you should give your sump pump a little attention every three months:

  • Unplug the pump and clean out the inlet screen of any dirt or debris

  • Make sure the plug is connected to the power and the cord is intact and well-insulate

  • Check the functionality by emptying a bucket of water into the sump to see if the float rises and the pump turns on.

Annual Sump Pump Maintenance

Your sump pump requires an annual checkup, like other systems in your home. If you’re not mechanically inclined, you may want to call in a professional for this all-important task. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) offers a checklist for your sump pump’s annual inspection:

  • Clean and inspect pump after removing it from the sump pit.

  • Ensure the float is not tangled or jammed and floats properly

  • Electrical outlet for your sump should be GFCI to prevent electrocution

  • Sump pump alarm should function

  • Check valve on the discharge pipe should function

  • Sump pit should be covered

  • Clean out the sump pit

  • Add grease or oil to the pump bearings if recommended by the manufacturer

  • Return the pump to the sump, connect the power, and test it with a bucket of water.

Other recommendations from InterNACHI include ensuring proper discharge:

  • Water should discharge at least 20 feet from the home

  • Ensure discharged water does not flow back from the outlet into the foundation

  • Do not allow discharge onto neighboring property

  • Do not discharge water into public sewer lines

  • Do not discharge water into your septic tank

Be Prepared

If you’re concerned about your sump pump’s ability to do the job it needs to do, don’t wait until it’s too late and the water is rising. Make an appointment today with your local plumbing pros at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Pleasantville. They can inspect and clean your sump pump, ensuring it’s ready to keep you high and dry.