The weather here in Andover certainly took a turn. It is quite interesting to experience sun and warm temperatures one day, and rain and light snow within the next couple of days.
But this is Minnesota, so most of us come prepared. However, while scarves, boots, and coats may be ready, the question remains as to whether you have prepared the vital part of your home's plumbing to help you deal with all that water.
Yes, we are talking about your sump pump. Read on to learn how to prepare yours for the deluge.
If you haven't already taken the time to make sure that your sump pump is ready for the wetter, colder months to come, it might be a good idea to do so soon. Checking this vital piece of your plumbing for weaknesses or issues can save you a lot of pain later on!
Here are some helpful tips to help you prepare your pump:
Make Sure Your Pump Will Have Power
The first way to do this is to double-check that the sump pump is plugged into a working outlet. You may also want to double-check that the outlet being used is the correct type to keep your home safe.
If the pump has a working power source, you may also want to set it up with a back-up battery power source in case of an outage.
Check Your Pump's Operation
Fill a large pot or bucket with water and then pour it into the sump, or pit. As the water level rises, your pump should kick on and set to work draining the water. If all is well, the system will also turn off once the water is gone.
This might feel a little strange but it will help you spot any issues with this system. If it doesn't turn on and off automatically, or if the float doesn't rise with the water level, you will need to look into repairs.
Check The Discharge Pipe For Blockages
Find the exterior discharge pipes connected to your sump pump and check them for blocks or clogs. If these pipes don't have mud, mulch, grass or other debris in them, you will want to clear them ASAP. A blocked pipe could cause a major issue with your pump when it tries to remove the water but has nowhere to send it.
Call A Professional For Assistance
The best way to make sure your sump pump is prepared for inclement weather is to ask a professional plumber to look it over.
If you have a sump pump and you are concerned that it may not be working quite right, or if you want help making sure that it does, take the time to reach out for professional help. A trained plumber will be able to check the preparations listed above and will be able to look for additional issues as well.
If you are in need of sump pump maintenance or repair, it is time to reach out for services for your plumbing in Andover.
Contact Air Mechanical, Inc. to learn more about our plumbing services today.