The Importance of Regular Sump Pump Maintenance

Think of your sump pump as your basement’s silent hero. It quietly waits for the moment it’s needed, when heavy rain or melting snow threatens to flood your home. But like any hardworking piece of equipment, it can wear out over time if it’s not looked after. And the last thing anyone wants is to find out their sump pump isn’t working during a storm.

In this blog, we’ll talk about why taking care of your sump pump is so important, how often you should check it, and some signs that might mean it needs a little attention.

Why Taking Care of Your Sump Pump Matters:

• Avoiding sudden breakdowns when you need it most: Picture this, you’re in the middle of a thunderstorm, and water starts seeping into your basement. If your sump pump hasn’t been maintained, it might fail just when you need it to step up.
• Helping your pump last longer: Just like a car needs oil changes, your sump pump needs cleaning and checks to stay in good shape. Regular upkeep can help it last for many more years instead of dying early.
• Saving yourself a ton of money in the long run: A flood can cause thousands of dollars in damage, not just to your home, but to your personal belongings. Staying ahead with maintenance is way cheaper than dealing with water damage.

How to Tell If Your Sump Pump Needs Some Love:

• Weird sounds or shaking: If your pump starts making noises it didn’t before like grinding or buzzing, that could mean something’s wrong inside.
• It won’t stop running… or it doesn’t turn on at all: This could be a problem with the float switch or the pump itself. Either way, it’s worth looking into.
• You notice standing water in your basement: If the pump isn’t doing its job, that’s a big red flag. It might be clogged, broken, or not connected properly.
• Rust or mold around the pump: Moisture buildup and lack of drainage could mean your pump isn’t moving water away like it should.

How Often Should You Check It?
It’s a good idea to look at your sump pump every few months, maybe at the change of each season. Pour some water in the pit to make sure it kicks on, and check that the pipes are clear. Once a year, consider calling in a pro to do a full inspection and cleaning.

At Systèmes Sous-sol Québec, we’re here to make sure your basement stays dry, no matter what the weather throws at you. From installations to maintenance, we’ve got you covered. Call us at 1-514-334-7824 to schedule your maintenance appointment.