Don’t Neglect Your Sump Pump This Winter

For those who depend on their sump pump to keep their basements dry, it is important not to neglect your sump pump over the winter months. You want to make sure it is ready when the snow melts and the rains come in the spring.

7 Helpful Tips to Maintain Your Sump Pump

1. Remove your sump pump’s discharge hose for the winter. Once cold weather arrives remove your sump pump’s discharge hose and leave it off until warmer weather returns. This prevents damage to the hose if water were to freeze in it. Don’t forget to reattach the discharge hose when warmer temps return. It also doesn’t hurt to have an extra hose available.
2. Never unplug your sump pump. There is no real reason to unplug your sump pump. By keeping it powered, it is available to run even during the winter months when an early thaw or heavy rain could lead to flooding in your basement.
3. Look for debris in your sump pump’s pit. Making sure there’s no dirt, sludge, ice or other debris in your sump pump’s pit will prevent clogs in your pump’s intake or discharge pipes. Call a professional to clean your sump pump pit to prevent significant problems later.
4. Keep an eye on the pump’s float. Is the float resting on top of the water and is it able to move freely? If it’s blocked or no longer floating, it’s not going to work correctly.
5. 

   Test your sump pump over the winter to make sure it is working properly.

   Test your pump regularly. Run a little water through your sump pump during the winter to make sure it is working properly. And if you removed the hose earlier, make sure to reattach it before you test.

6. Your discharge pipe needs to direct water away from your home. If it’s too close, that water can seep back into your sump, causing your sump pump to run continuously. We recommend that water be discharged at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation.
7. Keep your heat on. Your basement can get cold — and your sump pump’s pit and pipes can get even colder. Make sure to keep your heat on and heat your basement normally. This can prevent any of your home’s pipes from freezing.

If All Else Fails

Sump pumps are not difficult to install or maintain, but if you need help, Brenneco Plumbing is available to check your sump pump and perform any necessary maintenance. Call us at 765-448-6190.