Testing Your Sump Pump

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.