by Trevor Woods |
Last Updated: August 19, 2020 Often forgotten, rarely visited, and almost always crowded, unfinished basements offer ample storage space and the alluring potential of more square footage should you ever pursue renovating one. Of course, until you do, there are special requirements you should always keep in mind.
One of those requirements is the need for a basement sump pump to keep moisture out of this notoriously wet area. Sound like something you can put off until next fall? Think again.
Here’s a not-so-fun fact: Just an inch of water can cause over $1000 to the average home!
Luckily, a simple test can save you from a flooded basement.
What Is A Sump Pump ?
A basement sump pump can serve as a good investment for a homeowner, but many homeowners don’t even have to buy one! For homes in particularly low or wet areas, sump pumps often come as a standard fixture in the basement.
With that said, if you’re not familiar with a
Wondering where that water comes from to begin with? Extra water can build up along the foundation of your home, especially during heavy rains, and it can end up in your basement or crawl space area. That’s when a trusty sump pump comes into play.
The simple explanation: A
The Wayne CDU980E submersible sump pump can move up to 5490 gallons per hour!
The top suction design filters debris and minimizes clogging. It is a rugged, stainless steel and cast-iron submersible sump pump. This pump is designed for 11-Inch diameter and larger sump pits. Intended for indoor use only.
What If I Don’t Have A Working Sump Pump ?
If your
Therefore, properly maintaining your
Protect your home when the power is out!
The Wayne ESP25 upgraded battery back up system protects your basement when the power is out. The epoxy-coated steel and cast iron construction pump is built to last while moving up to 2900 gallons per hour at 0 feet of head.
When Will I Need A New Sump Pump ?
Sump pumps typically last 10 years or more, but the lifespan really depends on how often it runs and how clean the water is that runs through it. If your
How To Test Your Sump Pump
If your home has a basement
It’s important to test your
Ideally, sump pumps should be tested before the spring and fall seasons, so that you can avoid flooding and make sure it’s ready when you need it.
Most homeowners discover that their sump pump has a problem when the basement is already flooded. At that point, it's too late to prevent damage.
PumpSpy alerts homeowners that their sump pump has a problem as soon as an issue is detected!. The PumpSpy Sump Pump Smart Outlet connects to PumpSpy's Remote Monitoring Service that monitors your sump pump automatically, 24/7.
What You’ll Need
Depending on the make and model of your
- Screwdriver
- Socket set
- 5 Gallon Bucket
1. Check The Sump Pump Discharge Line
Locate the exit pipe (or “outlet pipe”) on the exterior of your home. This is the pipe through which your
Inspect the outlet pipe for damage and verify that the pipe has no clogs, like debris or ice. Make sure that the outlet pipe is clear so it can direct water away from the foundation of your home.
2. Inspect The Sump Pump
Locate the
Verify that the electrical cord for your
Using a
3. Add Water
Pour approximately 5 gallons of water into the basin of your
Do not pour in more water than the basin will hold. Expect the
Easy to install check valve with 1-1/2" mechanical joints. This check valve can conveniently be installed vertically or horizontally.
4. Test The Float
Look for a float on the
The float’s proper operation ensures that the
5. Clean Up
If your
Reinstall the lid when you’re done clearing it, Done!
The Original Radon/Sump Dome is ideal for covering the sump pit in your basement while reducing odor and helping to protect against radon gas.
Conclusion
Sump pumps are only good in an emergency if they work, so take the time to test your
Happy Plumbing!
Recommended Reading
How To Winterize Your Sprinkler System And Prevent It From Freezing
We answer all your questions and show you 7 simple steps on how to blow out your sprinkler system and get it ready for winter!
How To Flush A Water Heater
Flushing your water heater and discovering the schedule that keeps your hot water tank happy and healthy is easy. We will show you how!
How To Stop Your Water Heater From Making Scary Noises
Find out how to silence your water heater once and for all with our guide. Learn how to quite your water heater noises all by yourself!
How To Replace A Water Heater Drain Valve
Replacing a water heater drain valve is an easy way to upgrade your hot water tank and protect your property from water damage. We will show you how!
How To Measure Pipe Size The Easy Way
Find out how to measure plumbing pipe size easily and accurately with our free tool. This handy ruler will save you money and frustration!
How To Choose The Best Kitchen Faucet
The kitchen is the heart of your home but a faulty faucet can cripple your household. We will show you which kitchen faucet is perfect for you!