If you have a sump pump, scheduling annual maintenance is the best way to ensure the system is ready to kick into action whenever needed. And if you haven’t scheduled sump pump service in the last year, now is an excellent time to do so.
You can keep reading to learn more about the benefits of sump pump maintenance and how long you can expect your sump pump to last. Then give our team a call to schedule your sump pump services in Collierville, TN.
Sump Pump Maintenance Frequency
Depending on the type of sump pump you have and what you use it for, you may need service more or less frequently. Examples include:
- Monthly service – This is recommended if your sump pump is used to process water from your washing machine. You can unplug the sump pump yourself and then clean out the pump screen and inlet opening. Then plug the pump back in.
- Quarterly service – This is recommended when the sump pump isn’t used for washing machine water. You can clean it out yourself as mentioned above every three to four months.
- Annual service – This is separate from homeowner maintenance. We recommend that you have professional service once annually for any sump pump, which includes cleaning the pit.
Sump Pump Maintenance Steps
During professional maintenance we complete six steps.
1. Cleaning the pit
Your sump pump sits inside of a pit where the water collects for sump pump removal. Our team needs to make sure the pit is big enough for the sump pump and your unique needs. Usually a pit that is 24 inches deep and 18 inches wide is the minimum. This pit needs to be cleaned and measured annually.
2. Check valve
Your sump pump has a check valve that helps to prevent backflow from happening in the discharge pipe after the pump turns off. During our annual inspection we ensure this valve is working the way it should.
3. Backup power source
Sump pumps have on and off seasons. During the “on” season when high rainfall is more likely your sump pump will work harder. During these storms your home may lose power, also cutting off your sump pump. This is why a backup power source is so important. If you already have one, we will complete a test to ensure it is working. If you don’t have one, we can make a recommendation.
4. Alarm
Some sump pumps have a built in alarm that alerts you to when the sump pump is activated and working to remove water buildup. This may not be necessary if it is connected to your washing machine and works more frequently. But if your sump pump is exclusively pumping away floodwater, this alert may be important to you. If you do have an alarm, we will test it.
5. Cover
The cover is designed to prevent water from evaporating up into your basement. If you don’t have a cover, we can fit your sump pump for one. If you do have a cover, we will check the fit to make sure it is secure and working as it should.
6. Discharge location
The place where water gets dispelled is just as important as the sump pump itself. The discharge area needs to be at least 20 feet away from your home. It shouldn’t be draining into other yards or the sewer and potentially causing problems for other people nearby. We can check to make sure your discharge area is adequate and set up the way it should be for optimal use.
Since 1943, it’s been Automatic in Memphis! Contact the experts at Automatic Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing to get started on your sump pump service.
