Tips for Preparing Your Sump Pump for Summer Storms

Summer is here and along with it comes the inevitable summer storms. As much as we all enjoy the warm summer air and the sound of rain on our rooftops, we often forget about the aftermath of these storms. Summer storms can cause a lot of damage to our homes, including flood damage caused by overflowing sump pumps. That’s why it’s essential to make sure your sump pump is prepared to handle stormy weather.

In this blog post, we’ll be sharing some tips about how to get your sump pump ready to withstand summer storms and ways to prevent your sump pump from overflowing.

How to Prepare Your Sump Pump for Summer Storms

Summer storms can wreak havoc on our homes, but with these tips, you can ensure that your sump pump is ready before the summer season arrives:

• Inspect Your Sump Pump – First things first, inspect your sump pump. You need to make sure that it’s in good condition. Remove any debris around your sump pump and check for any cracks or damage, which can lead to water leaks and malfunctioning. Look for worn out or damaged parts, such as the float, check valve, or the motor. Ensure the pump is securely and properly plugged.
• Test Your Sump Pump – Testing your sump pump is essential. With the upcoming summer storms, you need to make sure that your pump is working correctly. Fill the sump pump pit with water and wait for it to kick in and pump the water out. Make sure it’s switching off when the pit is empty. If it’s not the case, something is wrong with the pump, and you need to address it immediately.
• Clean Your Sump Pump – A dirty sump pit and pump are the leading causes of pump malfunctioning. Debris, dirt, and other particles can cause a blockage in your pump and prevent it from working as it should. Clean the sump pump and pit by removing any dirt or debris in the pit, clearing the pump air vents, and lubricating the pump bearings as specified by manufacturer.
• Make Sure Your Backup System Is Ready – Summer storms can cause power outages, which can render your sump pump useless. It’s essential to have a backup system that can take over in case the primary pump shuts down. Check your battery backup, if you have one, to ensure it’s working, and the battery is fully charged. Alternatively, you may invest in a water-powered backup sump pump that would work even during a power outage.
• Consider Upgrading Your Sump Pump – If your sump pump is more than 10 years old or you’ve experienced frequent flooding despite regular maintenance, upgrade your sump pump. A new sump pump would not only perform better but would also be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. Consider buying a sump pump with a battery backup and a sump pump alarm to ensure protection when you are away from home.

Remember, regular maintenance is paramount to keep your sump pump in top condition. Contact professional plumbing contractors if you need help, have questions, or want to upgrade your sump pump system. Don’t let summer storms catch you unprepared.

For nearly 30 years, our plumbers have been helping home and business owners with sump pump installation, maintenance, and repair. If you need help with your home’s sump pump in Boston and its surrounding communities, call Winters Home Services at 617-221-5899 or reach out to us online today.