Is Your Sump Pump Ready For When You Actually Need It?

Published On: April 15, 2018|Categories: Blog, Tips|Tags: , |

FEMA reports a drastic decline of calls to emergency agencies to pump out flooded basements in the last 25 years. This is mostly thanks to sump pumps. Basements are a rarity in Florida, but they do exist. Some Florida homes with basements can be found North of Tampa in Dade City or to the East in Lakeland. Still, occasionally, you’ll find a home for sale right in Tampa with a basement.

Electric sump pumps installed in openings in basement floors remove rising ground water and send it elsewhere. Owning a sump pump offers strong insurance against major property damage. Yet, it must be working at all times. So, make sure you conduct annual maintenance when the basin is empty.

  • Unplug the sump pump. Then, check the outlet once a year. You can just plug in a lamp or a radio to check.
  • Make sure the pump inlet is free of debris.
  • Ensure the float isn’t jammed or pushed to the side of the basin. The float actuates the switch to turn it on when needed!
  • Test the sump pump by pouring water right into the basin. Use enough water to raise the float and turn on the switch.
  • Clean the screen.
  • Make sure the internal flap swings freely.
  • Lubricate bearings as needed.
  • Consider getting a battery back up.

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