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What Is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a small pump that is usually installed at the lowest part of a building’s basement or crawlspace. There are two types of sump pumps, pedestal, and submersible. Often, these pumps are installed in specially constructed pits. Water enters these pumps via their perimeter drainage systems, and filters into the pump basin, the sump pump will then remove water that accumulates in its basin and send it to a place where the water is unproblematic.
Sump pumps are usually installed in buildings that have foundations lower than the water table, so if your home or business has a high water table, sump pump services are highly recommended. Although, any property owner with a basement or crawl space should install a sump pump.
What Maintenance Checks Can You Make?
Seeking professional sump pump services is extremely important if you want to stop unwanted water from entering your property. However, there are a few maintenance checks you can carry out to ensure your sump pump is working correctly and to know when to call a professional.
Maintaining and checking your sump pump is a relatively easy, small job, so it is often overlooked. However, maintaining your sump pump is extremely important. It is advised that you carry out these checks at least once per year.
Check for Functionality
To check your pump’s functionality, you can pour a bucket of water into the pump’s pit, it is recommended to do this every month or so. If your device is working as it should be, the pump will immediately turn itself on and begin to pump the water away. It should only take a few seconds for your sump pump to eradicate the water entirely. If your pump fails to turn on automatically, or it is particularly slow, make sure it is powered on. If the pump is on, but it still is not working, it might be a time to consider professional sump pump services.
Inspect the Discharge Line
Another home maintenance check you can carry out is to inspect the discharge line for dirt, grit, or obstructions. When your pump removes water, the dirt and small substances in the liquid also flow through the pump. These substances can either build-up, slowing the pump’s flow, or cause complete obstruction. If your sump pump is not working, but the discharge pipe seems to be clear, or if there is an obstruction, there is probably a larger issue that needs professional attention.
Do not attempt to remove an obstruction from your pump’s discharge line without training and experience.
Clean the Weep Hole
If your sump pump has a weep hole, which is located between the pump and the check valve, you can use a toothpick or similar implement to clean it to ensure smooth operation. Although, be careful not to damage anything inside the weep hole during the process.
Carry Out an Odor Check
Finally, a simple check you can make to determine the health of your sump pump is an odor check. Unclean, stagnant water often causes an unpleasant smell. A working sump pump eliminates the risk of stagnant water, so if you can smell something bad in the vicinity of your pump, it is best to seek out professional sump pump services.
It is important to remember that, although these maintenance checks are a great way to make sure your sump pump is in working order, they should not replace professional maintenance services.
Where to Find Reliable Sump Pump Services
Calling on a professional to repair or perform maintenance on the sump pump in your Cleveland, TN home or business is highly recommended. However, you should always remember that not all businesses offer the same quality of sump pump services. Here at Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air, we make sure that you receive the best quality sump pump services, which are also great value for money.
The Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air team are licensed professionals who are happy to provide all the information you need and answer all of your sump pump-related questions. As a company, we have over 30 years of experience in providing plumbing, heating, and air services to home and business owners in Cleveland, TN. We also offer 24-hour emergency services, seven days a week. Our firm is a family-owned and operated business, and our technicians genuinely care about their customers. So, whether it’s a simple question, or a full sump pump installation, our team is happy to help.
Get in Touch
With the correct sump pump services from Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air, you won’t have to worry about damp, mold, or an underperforming pump. We can offer you great services and peace of mind. So, call us today on 423-668-0507 to discuss what sump pump services you need.
