How to Take Care of Your Pump

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can shield you from a storm by giving you an enclosed space away from large windows.

A basement can shield you from a storm by giving you an enclosed space away from large windows. The basement in your home in Johnson City, TN, needs protection from the storm itself, though. A working sump pump helps remove water from your basement when it floods, which can lower the cost of water damage repair services. To keep your pump working so it can extract water from your home, you must commit to regular pump maintenance. Here are some tips for taking care of your pump.

1. Clean the intake screen regularly. About once every quarter, your intake screen needs to be cleaned. Remove any gunk or debris so that it doesn't get clogged.

2. Clear debris out of pipe and pit. If the pump has had to extract water from the basement, it may have gravel or other debris in the pit near the floater or in the discharge pipe. By clearing these areas, you ensure that floodwater has an open passage to the area where you want it distributed.

3. Test your sump pump monthly. Testing is merely a matter of creating the situation the pump is designed to combat. Fill a bucket with water and pour it into the basin to see if the float mechanism activates the pump like it should.

4. Confirm that the unit has power. The cord to the power supply should be checked periodically for defects and replaced if anything looks suspicious. Make sure the pump is plugged in.

5. Maintain backup power supply. It is a good idea to have a backup power supply for your pump. If it is backed up by a battery, make sure you replace the battery at least every two years, even if you haven't had to use it.

Your basement may be prone to flooding, but a sump pump can help move some of the water our and give you peace of mind. Take care of your pump, and it will take care of your home. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROwashingtoncountytn.com/.