What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a device that removes accumulations of water or other liquids from a sump pit/basin/basket, the lowest point in a drainage system. If the sump pit is wet only intermittently (e.g., the basement sump of a house), a self-priming pump is used, generally one equipped with a mechanism to start it automatically as needed.

Why do homes and businesses need sump pumps?

A sump pump is your first line of defense against basement flooding and water damage by pumping away the groundwater before it accumulates. A flooding basement can wreck your home’s foundation and cause extensive water damage to your walls, floors and furniture. Water damage is expensive to fix and poses the risk of a mold infestation. Having a functional sump pump is very important in Minnesota due to spring snowmelt and heavy downpours throughout the year.

When and how to test your sump pump?

Testing your sump pump is crucial to making sure you have a functioning unit when you most need it. We suggest testing your sump pump before winter’s end, before the ground begins to thaw completely. And, anytime your sump pump hasn’t been used for an extended period of time, like in a summer drought, when the season is changing to the fall and we see more rain. Fill a five gallon bucket with water and slowly pour it into the sump pit around the sump pump. Make sure the pump kicks on and the water level begins to decrease, then dissipate. 

When to replace your sump pump?

If the pump doesn’t turn on, it could be for several reasons. Malfunctioning float switch, mechanical failure, power failure, battery back-up failure, overworked pump that is at the end of its lifespan, clogged or frozen discharge drain pipe. If you have an older sump pump, consider replacing it even if it’s currently working. Depending on how often it runs determines the life cycle. Depending on the amount of groundwater intrusion your home experiences, you may also need a larger and/or more expensive unit installed. Some homes and businesses also have more than one sump pump.

Bottom line – when it comes to sump pumps, use the old adage: “Better safe than sorry”. If your sump pump unexpectedly fails, and you notice your basement beginning to flood or floods and you didn’t catch it in time, it’s absolutely devastating and there is not much you can do except wet vac the water out and/or contact an emergency water removal company. Dealing with the consequences of water damage are time-consuming, expensive and a potential health-risk. Having a fully functional sump pump will give you the peace of mind you need during a torrential storm, whether you are out of town, out of the house at work, or sleeping in the middle of the night.

Reach out to Ken’s Sewer Service today to set up an appointment to replace your existing sump pump or to install a new sump pump basket system.