The arrival of spring often signals lots of melting snow and heavy rainfall. If you have a damp basement or live in an area prone to flooding, you know that dealing with water damage can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare.

A sump pump can be an effective device for moving accumulated water away from your house and preventing costly repairs. Here are a few tips to keep your sump pump in good working order.

    • Ensure the unit is plugged in to a working ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet and the cord is in good shape.
    • Check the discharge pipe and vent hole for dirt, gravel and other debris. Clear any obstructions, as these cause the pump to work harder to drain the sump basin and increase the chance of overflowing.
    • Inspect the intake screen for clogs and remove any debris.
    • Remove any visible debris from the pit, and ensure the float component is unobstructed.
    • Test the pump by pouring a bucket of water into the basin. As the water level rises, the float should trigger the pump to activate and drain the water quickly.
  • If your pump has a backup battery, replace the battery every two to three years, or as directed by the manufacturer.
Editorial Contributors
Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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