Your sump pump is a vital tool in keeping your basement or crawl space dry and preventing flooding. For these spaces to continue to be free of the trouble water can bring, your sump pump needs some care to function properly. This is how a professional can help. They can thoroughly clean and maintain your sump pump basin.
The DIY Prep Work: Getting Ready for the Pro
While a professional handles the deep cleaning, there are a few simple things you can do to prepare the basin for their visit. First, turn off the sump pump at the circuit breaker. This is important for safety reasons. Next, locate the discharge pipe that carries water away from your house. If you can disconnect it easily, go ahead and do so. This will give the professional better access to the basin for cleaning.
What the Professional Does
Now, let’s see how a professional tackles sump pump basin cleaning. When they are doing the job, they will perform six essential tasks.
1. Visual Inspection
The professional will first visually inspect the basin for any cracks, damage, or signs of wear and tear. A damaged basin can compromise the effectiveness of your sump pump.
2. Removing Standing Water
The professional will use a wet/dry vacuum or a submersible pump to remove any standing water in the basin. This allows for more thorough cleaning.
3. Removing Debris and Sediment
The professional will then get down and dirty, as they will be scooping out any debris or sediment that has accumulated in the basin. This could include leaves, dirt, sand, or even small rocks. A clean basin allows the pump to function properly and prevents clogs.
4. Cleaning the Basin Walls
Once the debris is removed, the professional will scrub the walls of the basin with a hose and a mild disinfectant solution. This removes any grime or buildup that could harbor bacteria or mold.
5. Checking the Discharge Pipe
The professional will also check the discharge pipe for any clogs or blockages. A blocked discharge pipe can prevent the pump from carefully removing water from your basement.
6. Reassembly and Testing
Once everything is clean, the professional will reassemble the discharge pipe and turn the sump pump back on at the circuit breaker. They will then test the pump to ensure it’s working correctly.
Keeping Your Basin Clean Between Pro Cleanings
While a professional cleaning is essential once a year, there are some simple things you can do to maintain your sump pump basin in between cleanings. Every few months, take a peek into the basin to look for any debris buildup. If you see anything, remove it with a net or scoop. Test your sump pump every couple of months by pouring a bucket of water into the basin. The pump should turn on and remove the water quickly. If it doesn’t, call a professional.
By scheduling regular professional cleaning and performing some simple DIY maintenance tasks, you can make sure your sump pump basin is always ready to function properly. For professional sump pump service in Rochester, NY, call us at Nichols Electric and Plumbing.
