1.  Drain the System

The first step in winterizing your sump pump is to drain the system, ensuring that there isn’t water left in the hose, fittings, or basin to freeze and expand. This could damage parts of the system and cause it to malfunction or even break down, leading to an untimely sump pump replacement.

2.  Inspect the Check Valve

The check valve on your sump pump’s discharge line prevents pumped water from going back into the pit. See if there are leaks or moisture on the seals and connections of the valve and debris buildup in the valve. If this is the case, reach out to us for sump pump maintenance.

3.  Check for Leaks

Check all hoses and fittings for leaks. If you find any, replace the leaking parts before turning on your sump pump. Leaks can cause damage and cost you time and money. You may also consider sump pump installation if it is in poor condition.

4.  Add Fresh Anti-Freeze Solution

If the system is full of water, drain it and replace it with a fresh anti-freeze solution. If you want to pump out the old solution, go ahead as long as you add a fresh solution to prevent damage.

5.  Don’t Unplug the Sump Pump

It’s easy to assume that you don’t need your sump pump during the cold months. However, you shouldn’t unplug it. That is because snow may melt and a rainstorm may hit anytime, putting your basement at risk of flooding.

Need help maintaining your sump pump backup system? Turn to experts at Inception Plumbing, and we’ll be ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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What Sump Pump Horsepower Should I Choose?

There is no one size fits all option. The right horsepower will depend on the water flow rate in your home. The higher it will have to lift the water, the higher the horsepower the pumps will require. If you have used a sump pump before and it worked perfectly, you can buy the same unit. However, if it is your first time getting sump pump services in Kansas City, MO, you can count on us to recommend the perfect one for your needs.

What Happens When The Discharge Pipes Are Clogged Or Frozen?

Water will not flow properly if the discharge pipes of your sump pump are either frozen or clogged. Because of the excess load, the pump will eventually overheat. Fortunately, newer pump models have built-in thermal protection in case they overheat. It will shut down, let the motor cool, and restart in about 15 to 30 minutes. In the meantime, you should ensure the pipes are free of ice while waiting for professional help.

Do Sump Pumps Need To Be Cleaned?

The pumps don’t have fillers. Instead, they have small openings and screens that allow water to pass. Sump pump maintenance entails checking whether the openings are clogged and cleaning them.

How Long Do Sump Pumps Last?

The lifespan of the pump depends on how often it runs. A sump pump replacement will be necessary after a long time and if you need your unit running most of the time. Most pumps last from three to five years, depending on usage.

Do I Need A Backup Sump Pump?

Most people prefer having a sump pump backup system to be on the safe side. You will have peace of mind during flooding events, especially if you live in an area where heavy rainfalls are common.

Inception Plumbing is more than happy to answer any questions about sump pumps so you can take steps to keep your home protected. To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, get in touch with us today.

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Age

Sump pumps have an average lifespan of about ten years. How long your pump lasts is affected by the frequency of use, the quality, the electrical source, and the length the pump has to carry water to discharge. If you notice your pump is nearing the end of its service life, contact us for a replacement. You can also install a sump pump backup system in case the primary pump fails.

Clogged Pump and Switches

Your sump pump may be getting dirt and other contaminants, especially if it does not have a lid. These contaminants can lead to clogs and slow down your pump or cause it to stop running. Dirty mechanical parts, debris in the sump pit, and jammed or tangled switches can cause the pump to clog. You can buy an airtight lid to protect your pump, or you can get in touch with your trusted plumber for sump pump maintenance services.

Strange Noises

Your sump pump may produce low noise while operating, which is normal. However, if you notice loud noises from your pump, it might have damaged or worn-out components. Strange noises could be from a damaged fan, propeller, or motor. If this is the case, you may need a sump pump replacement.

Poor Installation

If your sump pump was not installed correctly, it could develop problems during its service life. Poor sump pump installation may have been due to improper sizing or malfunctioning pump. To avoid premature replacement, work with experienced professionals to ensure a flawless installation.

As the leading plumber in Kansas City, MO, Inception Plumbing provides the highest standards of services to keep your home safe and protected through the years. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Anode rods in conventional water heaters have a tough but very important job – to protect the tank’s metal lining. Because they are meant to break down, you’ll need to call a plumber in Kansas City, MO, from Inception Plumbing to periodically check the rod and tank. But how can you tell if your anode rod is still in great condition?

Using the Right Rod for Your Needs

When it’s time for a new water heater installation, you can always ask to have the rod changed if it’s not one that’s right for your needs. Magnesium-coated rods are the most common option. However, they can corrode quickly if you have hard water in your home. In this instance, a more flexible, longer-lasting aluminum anode rod would be better.

Signs Your Anode Rod Isn’t in Great Condition

Discolored or rusty water is the top sign it’s time for either water heater replacement or, at the very least, anode rod replacement. Other signs suggesting your anode rod needs some attention include smelly water, banging sounds suggesting the rod has come loose, as well as other odd sounds suggesting higher-than-normal sediment/mineral levels.

Routine Upkeep and Maintenance

With regular water heater maintenance, your anode rod can be checked, along with other key parts of your hot water system. Since a typical anode rod lasts about 3-5 years, it’s a good idea to have it checked every 1-2 years so its condition can be documented. If you prefer a longer-lasting option, consider an electrical anode rod. It uses electrical impulses to minimize corrosive elements in your tank’s water.

Get in Touch With Inception Plumbing

Being on top of water heater repair in Kansas City, MO, and maintenance is a great way to make sure that your water heater will last longer. If you’re noticing signs of an anode rod problem, reach out to Inception Plumbing. We’re also at your service for routine maintenance.

Contact us today for fast, top-notch water heater services. We aim to create lifelong relationships with our customers, colleagues, and community by providing the highest standards of service Call us or fill out the online form to schedule an appointment.

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While it’s natural to assume that a basement will stay dry and free of floods on its own, when heavy rains or floods hit, sump pumps play a vital role in keeping basements clear of water. The experts at Inception Plumbing have extensive experience in a range of sump pump services in Kansas City, MO and can offer insight into how they work.

Sump Pump Operating Basics

A sump pump is typically installed in a home’s lowest level, such as the basement, and has a sump pit underneath that collects water. When the water level rises to a certain level in the pit, the sump pump will engage automatically and begin pumping the water out. With proper sump pump installation, you can avoid flooding in your basement and costly water damage on your property.

Water pumping takes place thanks to a centrifugal pump inside. The pump’s impeller, similar to a fan, draws in water from the pit and pushes it away through the outflow pipe. Outflow pipes have a valve to prevent backups. The placement of the pipe is also important to ensure the removed water doesn’t flow back into the building and trigger the need for a plumber in Kansas City, MO.

Sump Pump Backup

To prevent flooding during sump pump mechanical failure or an electrical outage, you can invest in a battery-powered sump pump backup system. This supplementary and secondary sump pump can operate on battery power and continue to provide hours of protection against water damage. When the primary pump can’t keep pace with the speed of rising water, the backup pump can also kick in and effectively double the amount of pumping power.

A Leading Local Plumbing Service

Sump pumps come in various sizes and designs and in a range of horsepower levels. When deciding whether to get a pedestal or submersible pump for your sump pump replacement, the experienced professionals at Inception Plumbing can provide you with proper guidance. We will also ensure that your sump pump is expertly installed, to avoid any problems.

Inception Plumbing has been serving Kansas City MO and the surrounding areas for over two decades. Our mission is to keep homes free of the negative impact of plumbing issues while ensuring systems last for the future. For top-level sump pump maintenance by fully licensed and insured specialists, contact us today.

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A sump pump can give you one less thing to worry about when it rains or when the snow melts. But you’ll want to call a plumber in Kansas City, MO, from Inception Plumbing if you’re seeing signs suggesting your sump pump may not have been installed properly – like the ones discussed below.

Backups Are Too Frequent

One possible sign that a sump pump installation wasn’t done correctly is that the pump basin backs up or frequently. This could be due to faulty parts, or your pump may not have been correctly sized when it was installed.

Your Pump Is In the Wrong Location

In order to work as intended, a sump pump needs to be installed in the lowest point of your basement. If this is not the case, sump pump replacement that includes setup in the right location may be necessary to resolve the issue.

Key Parts Aren’t Working Correctly

If you are generally diligent with sump pump maintenance and still have issues with key parts of your sump pump not working, you may have issues with improper installation. For instance, if the flow valve isn’t able to move freely up and down, it may not have been properly tested during installation. This can also apply if you are having issues with the drain system, pump motor, or other key parts that need to work correctly.

Lack of a Sufficient Seal Around Your Sump Pump

The hole surrounding your sump pump should have been sealed as the last step of the sump pump installation. Everything should be concealed, except for the sump pump lid. This is a problem that’s often easily resolved by applying a cement mixture around your pump.

Let Our Pros Restore Your Peace of Mind

If you have sump pump concerns, get in touch with Inception Plumbing. One possible solution we offer is the installation of a sump pump backup system if your main pump occasionally needs some help with water removal.

Contact Inception today for reliable sump pump services in Kansas City, MO, and nearby areas. We offer installation, repair, and other solutions for your sump pump as well as other plumbing fixtures.

Be sure to schedule an appointment with our team by calling us or by filling out the online form on this website. We look forward to working with you.

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A sump pump is a key part of your home’s plumbing system. It removes water from around your foundation and the lowest level of your home. It can prevent your basement from flooding. Let a plumber in Kansas City, MO, from Inception Plumbing offers these tips on testing your sump pump.

Push the Float

Access the sump pit. Find the float switch. Push it. If the sump pump doesn’t engage, you may need a sump pump replacement.

Lift the Float

If you have an older sump pump, its float may not have a manual switch. In this case, lift up the float and turn it over. Doing this should engage the pump. If it doesn’t, you may need sump pump services in Kansas City, MO.

Test the Battery

Your home should have a sump pump backup system in case of a power outage. The backup system supplies 12 to 24 hours of power. This is especially important if your home doesn’t have a backup generator. Test the battery monthly. Unplug the sump pump and make sure the backup battery pack has enough power to trigger the pump when you flip or push the float.

Maintain Your Sump Pump

Once a month, check the sump pump’s pit for debris. Make sure there’s no muck in the pit. Algae or other debris could clog the drain pipe or the pump. Check for rust or corrosion on the pump. Schedule annual sump pump maintenance with our licensed plumbers.

If your basement has flooded, you may need a second sump pump installation. It’s also a good idea to install a battery backup for your sump pump if you don’t yet have one. Inception Plumbing is the go-to provider of sump pumps in Kansas City and other areas we serve. Contact us today to schedule any of our plumbing services.

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Heavy rains are a real threat to your home’s basement. A sump pump is your protection from flooding. At Inception Plumbing, we’re the trusted provider of sump pump services in Kansas City, MO. Here are four ways to maintain your sump pump.

Remove Debris from the Basin

Small pebbles, silt, and other debris can get into the sump pump’s basin. That debris raises the water level. The higher water level will trigger more pump cycles, which could wear out the pump and necessitate a sump pump replacement.

Clean the Weep Hole

The weep hole is on the side of the sump well. It can get clogged with muck. If it’s clogged, water can drain into the sump. If it gets obstructed, you’ll need a plumber in Kansas City, MO, from Inception Plumbing to clear it with an auger.

Inspect the Check Valve

The check valve is at the top of the pump motor. It allows you to make sure the pump is ready to cycle. You can adjust the valve’s level, as well. If the motor won’t respond, you may need a new and professional sump pump installation, courtesy of our team here at Inception Plumbing.

Test the Battery

A severe rainstorm, ice storm, or wind event could knock out power to your home. Sump pumps typically operate with electricity, and they won’t work if the power goes out. This leaves your home vulnerable. Having a sump pump backup system is a wise choice. The backup operates on battery power, which lasts for up to 48 hours, usually long enough for power to be completely restored.

Sump pumps are a key part of protecting your home. It’s important to spend a few minutes each month maintaining them. To learn more about sump pump maintenance, contact us at Inception Plumbing today.

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Sump pumps are designed to pump water out of the lowest level of your home. They’re needed in places with a low water table and in areas prone to flooding. At Inception Plumbing, our plumber in Kansas City, MO offers these tips about the dangers of improper sump pump installation.

Mold Growth

Improper installation of your sump pump could facilitate the growth of toxic mold in your home. Mold needs high humidity for rapid growth. If the sump pump isn’t removing water, this provides mold with the right conditions for growing and releasing spores.

Foul Odors

Sump pumps that aren’t placed properly within the sump hole may cause foul odors to build up in your basement or the lowest level of your home. Sump pump services in Kansas City, MO could help you avoid foul odors from stagnant water.

Flooded Basement

If a sump pump installation in Kansas City, MO isn’t done correctly, you could end up with a flooded basement. This could lead to the loss of your furnace, heat pump, air handler, water heater, washing machine, or any other valuable item that’s stored or located in the basement. A sump pump backup system in Kansas City, MO uses a battery to pump water out of your basement during power outages.

Structural Damage

An improperly installed sump pump may not get the water out of your home. If it dumps or sprays the water inside or next to your home’s foundation, it could be worsening any existing structural issues. If the pump isn’t removing water at all, the water could cause your home’s foundation to shift, crack, or buckle. Sump pump maintenance in Kansas City, MO can prevent, or at least delay, this from happening.

Inception Plumbing offers affordable sump pump maintenance, repair, and installation services. To learn more about our services such as sump pump replacement in Kansas City, MO, contact us today.

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Your area’s sump pump provides a critical service. It prevents your basement from flooding. It also lowers the risk of water damage to your home. These reliable devices have a typical lifespan of eight to 10 years. It’s important to know the main causes of sump pump failure. If you notice either of these signs, our team at Inception Plumbing is ready to provide you with quality sump pump services in Kansas City, MO.

Lack of Maintenance

A lack of maintenance is a top cause of failure for all types of plumbing fixtures. Sump pumps may need to be cleaned or lubricated. Their lines may need to be flushed, especially if the soil around your home has a high mineral content or if there’s been a recent flood. Our team offers affordable sump pump maintenance in Kansas City, MO so that your sump pump will be ready when you need it.

Frozen or Clogged Discharge Lines

You may also experience sump pump failure if the pump has frozen or clogged discharge lines. The water in the discharge line could freeze during periods of extreme cold weather. A clog can occur if tree roots grow through the lines. In this case, you’ll need us for sump pump replacement in Kansas City, MO.

Signs of Sump Pump Failure

You’ll soon need a sump pump installation in Kansas City, MO if the pump won’t cycle. If it’s spraying mist or steaming, it needs to be replaced.

Old defunct obsolete grungy rusted sump pump that has been removed for replacement due to malfunction or breakdown, on whiteCheck the sump pump once each month. Have it serviced by our plumber in Kansas City, MO once each year.

Sump pumps protect your home and belongings. Let our team at Inception Plumbing provide you with a high-performing new primary or sump pump backup system in Kansas City, MO. Contact us today!

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