Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

Your sump pump is the first line of defense against basement flooding, working hard to pump water out of your home and prevent costly damage. But like any hardworking machine, it needs regular maintenance to function properly. Learn everything you need to know about sump pump upkeep, including how often to check the pump, what tasks you can handle yourself, and when to call a plumber.

Why Sump Pump Maintenance Matters

A sump pump might not be the flashiest piece of home equipment, but it’s one of the most important when it comes to protecting your property. Neglecting sump pump maintenance may allow the device to fail right when you need it most, such as during heavy rains or rapid snowmelt. The last thing you want is to find out too late that your sump pump is out of commission.

Regular checks are a small price to pay to keep your pump in good working order. For a low sump pump maintenance cost, you can avoid flooding, mold growth, and structural damage, not to mention expensive sump pump repairs or replacements.

How Often Do Sump Pumps Need Maintenance?

The frequency depends on how often your sump pump runs. Here’s a good rule of thumb:

• Monthly: If your sump pump runs frequently due to a high water table or heavy rain, it’s wise to check it monthly.
• Quarterly: If the pump only activates during the rainy season, inspections every three to four months should suffice.
• Yearly: At a minimum, perform a full sump pump maintenance service once a year, preferably before the rainy season.

Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist

Keeping your sump pump up and running isn’t complicated. You simply need to know what sump pump maintenance entails. Follow this step-by-step guide monthly, quarterly, or yearly, depending on your needs.

1. Test the Pump

The simplest but most important part of sump pump maintenance is ensuring the pump works. It’s easy to check—just pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to trigger the pump. If it doesn’t activate or struggles to remove the water, you may have a problem that needs attention.

What to look for:

• The pump turns on as the water level rises.
• Water is pumped out efficiently through the discharge pipe.
• The pump turns off after removing the water.

2. Keep the Sump Pit Clean

Dirt, debris, and other foreign objects may collect in the sump pit, which could clog the discharge pipe or damage the pump. Keep the area clean to ensure nothing blocks the pump’s intake.

What to do:

• Unplug the pump before cleaning for safety.
• Remove loose objects from the pit.
• Wipe down the pump and check the inlet screen for clogs.

3. Inspect the Float Switch

The float switch controls when your pump turns on and off. If it gets stuck or damaged, your sump pump may not activate when needed or run continuously, causing needless wear and tear.

How to check it:

• Move the float up and down to ensure it moves freely.
• Make sure nothing is blocking or interfering with the switch.
• If the float appears worn or stuck, it may need replacing.

4. Check the Discharge Pipe

Even if your sump pump works perfectly, water won’t drain properly if the discharge line is blocked. Frustratingly, this may result in preventable flooding.

What to inspect:

• Ensure the pipe is directing water away from your home’s foundation.
• Check for clogs or obstructions in the pipe.
• Protect the pipe from freezing in the winter.

5. Inspect the Power Source

Most sump pumps rely on electricity, so a power failure could render yours useless when you need it most. If your pump suddenly stops working, the first thing to check is the power connection.

Follow these steps:

• Make sure the pump is plugged into a functioning GFCI outlet.
• Check for a tripped circuit breaker and reset any you find.
• Consider a backup power source, such as a battery backup sump pump or a generator, for extra peace of mind.

6. Listen for Strange Noises

Your sump pump may not run silently, but you shouldn’t hear unusual noises. If you do, something could be wrong with the motor or impeller.

What to listen for:

• A humming noise is normal, but excessive vibration, grinding, or rattling isn’t.
• Check for clogs or mechanical issues if the pump sounds like it’s struggling.
• If noises persist, it may be time for professional servicing.

7. Call a Plumber When Needed

While DIY upkeep prevents many larger issues, professional maintenance ensures your pump is fully functional and ready to handle whatever the next storm brings your way. Plus, hiring a pro is more affordable than cleaning up water damage, so the sump pump maintenance cost is well worth it.

When to call a pro:

• Your pump fails multiple tests despite cleaning and making minor adjustments. A licensed plumber can diagnose and fix the problem.
• The electrical components are acting finicky. Faulty wiring or a failing motor may cause pump failure and should be professionally inspected.
• You’re dealing with persistent issues, and your pump is over seven to 10 years old. This is a sign it may be time for a replacement.

Stay Dry with Expert Plumbing Service

With over 30 years of experience helping Illinois homeowners protect their properties from flooding, Expert Plumbing Service is the company to trust for all your sump pump maintenance service needs. Our licensed and certified plumbers have handled over 100,000 plumbing jobs, from basic maintenance to complex repairs. If your sump pump needs attention, don’t wait for the next big storm—contact us today for expert sump pump services in DuPage, Will, Kendall, and Kane Counties.