Sump Pump Maintenance

As the weather turns and spring arrives, with it arrives the threat of flooding from the spring showers that inevitably fall over the region. If you are a current home owner a sump pump is a key piece of equipment in protecting their home from floods. This becomes even more important if you are selling or planning on listing your home. A flood can derail your plans and cost you thousands. If you are a buyer in the Windsor real estate market, you and your Windsor REALTOR® are probably interested in knowing if the home has one, especially in flood prone areas like South Windsor and Lakeshore. With spring starting now is a great time for maintenance on your sump pump to make sure when the rain comes, your basement remains dry. Below is a checklist of things to do to ensure your sump pump is well maintained and ready for the rain.

Ensure your pump is properly positioned upright. The vibration of the motor can cause your sump pump to shift and if your pump is not upright the float arm can become jammed.
Check your GFCI outlet to make sure it’s plugged in and the cord is in good condition. Be aware that if some moisture present, your GFCI breaker may trip and shut down your sump pump.
Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit. It should start automatically and drain the water away. While it is pumping, head outside and make sure water is flowing out of the discharge pipe. If you have any issues at this step be sure to have it professionally serviced to troubleshoot and solve the problems.
Disconnect the check valve and remove any debris built up inside.
Check the battery on the backup pump. Be sure to test this battery periodically (especailly during rainy season) using a multimeter. You can also connect a maintenance-free battery to your backup.

Don't get caught with a malfunctioning sump pump this spring and avoid basement floods by making sure your sump pump is in operating condition now.

Image: City of Windsor; https://www.citywindsor.ca/residents/environment/climate-change-adaptation/climate-resilient-home/Pages/Sump-Pump-with-Overflow.aspx

Here at Jump Realty our agents will give you honest advice on what course of action is best for you in their professional opinion and will always put taking care of your best interests first! With offices in Windsor, Tecumseh, Kingsville, LaSalle, Harrow, Chatham, and Leamington, no matter where you are, a Jump agent is ready to help. Please contact us for any housing needs and let us give you a better real estate experience!