The Best Ways To Check If Your Sump Pump is Working

Sump pumps are vital for protecting your property from water damage and act as an invaluable part of radon mitigation in your homes. Having an efficient sump pump provides peace of mind to homeowners and renters alike. Affordable Radon Services is here with some of the best ways to check if your sump pump is working and how it can best suit your home in the long run.

Inspect the Power Source and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

Always make sure that you plug your sump pump into a proper power source and check that the cable is in good condition. Check the GFCI outlet by pressing the test and reset buttons to confirm the power outlet is functioning correctly.

If your sump pump isn’t working, you might have a faulty GFCI outlet or power cord. Regularly testing the GFCI can prevent power-related failures, ensuring you have a working sump pump whenever you need it.

Test the Pump With Water

One of the best ways to check if your sump pump is working is to test it with water. You can accomplish this by pouring a bucket of water into the samp basin. This action will trigger the float switch, which activates the pump. A proper pump will activate and remove the water quickly and efficiently.

If the pump struggles to start or fails to pump the water out of the basin, there might be an issue with the float switch or the pump itself. Proper maintenance and prompt attention to any irregularities ensure your sump pump remains reliable.

Schedule Regular Maintenance and Professional Inspections

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your sump pump in top condition. Clean the sump basin periodically to remove debris that could clog the pump or impede the float switch’s operation. You may also want to check the discharge line for obstructions, as a blocked line may prevent the pump from expelling water.

It’s also a good idea to schedule a professional inspection at least once a year to help identify potential problems before they become major issues. Professionals can perform more detailed checks and maintenance tasks, such as inspecting the pump’s internal components and ensuring the discharge line is free of obstructions.

Homeowners looking to ensure their sump pump is not only efficient but also capable of protecting their household from harmful radon gas should consider installing a radon sump pump. Affordable Radon Services offers specialized radon sump pump installations and maintenance that are tailored to keep your home safe from both water damage and radon exposure.