Sump pump tips for Lehigh Valley homeowners

Many Lehigh Valley homes have sump pumps. Maintaining your sump pump is a critical part of protecting your home from water damage and flooding. Proper upkeep of the system can reduce repair costs, help avoid costly replacements, and ensure that your sump pump works effectively when you need it most.

A sump pump prevents home flooding by moving excess water from your basement to an area outside your home. The sump is usually a hole beneath your basement floor; in this pit or basin is your sump pump. The pump has valves that sense elevated water levels or pressure. When these levels are high, the sump pump automatically kicks in and pumps excess water out of your basement and away from your property via a discharge line which carries the water away from your home.

Here are some tips for ensuring that your sump pump remains in good working order:

1. Check the pump regularly: It’s a good idea to visually inspect your sump pump at least once a month to make sure it is functioning properly. Check for any visible signs of damage or wear, such as cracks or rust.
2. Clean the pump and pit: To ensure proper functioning, the sump pump pit should be free of debris and dirt. Use a garden hose to flush out the pit and a small brush to clean the pump itself.
3. Test the pump: To test the pump, fill the sump pit with water until the float switch activates the pump. If the pump does not turn on, or runs but does not pump water out of the pit, it may be malfunctioning and need repair or replacement.
4. Inspect the check valve: The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit after it has been pumped out. Make sure the check valve is functioning properly by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and checking to see if it flows back out. If it does, the check valve is not functioning correctly and should be replaced.
5. Check the discharge line: The discharge line carries water from the sump pump to the outdoors. Make sure the line is not clogged or frozen, and that it is properly attached to the pump and the exterior of your home.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your sump pump is functioning correctly, which will prevent any unwanted flooding in your home. If you have any concerns about your sump pump system, reach out to L&M Plumbing by calling (610) 756-3069 and one of our experts will come to inspect your system.