Simple Ways To Extend The Life Of Your Sump Pump

If you have a crawlspace foundation or a leaky basement, then you know the importance of a sump pump and what can happen if it stops working. Proper maintenance of your sump pump will ensure that it will work when you need it and will avoid a host of potential problems including mold growth and foundation damage. Here are a few simple things you can do on a routine basis to extend the life of your sump pump. 

Check the Route

The route discharge line for your sump pump should redirect the water into your yard, preferably to a spot in your yard where the water can flow away from the foundation of your home. However, some older sump pumps can have discharge lines that flow into the sewer line in your home, which may be against the current plumbing codes. You can check the by-laws in your area, and if your sump pump does drain into the sewer, you should have it redirected or you may have to pay a fine.

Do a Visual Inspection

First, you should be familiar with the type of system you have and its parts. Some sump pumps have battery backup, some are hardwired into the electric grid in your home, and some are on a pedestal. Knowing your parts will make something is wrong with your sump pump easy for you to spot. You should do an inspection once every few months to make sure there aren’t any loose or missing pieces, rusty spots, or other issues that could impact the longevity of your pump.

Make Sure it’s being Used

A sump pump that is constantly running will most certainly need to be replaced or repaired more often than moderately used pumps. However, an underused pump will also need to be replaced more often. So, if you find that your pump is underutilized over an extended period of time, you may not need a sump pump at all.

Be Proactive

Don’t wait until a problem is out of control before you seek help fixing your sump pump. If you think you see anything fishy in your visual inspection, make sure you call a professional to get an opinion and come and take a look for themselves.

Waterproofing From All Aspects Waterproofing

If you are ready to get a professional to waterproof your home’s basement, contact All Aspects Waterproofing, a Better Business Bureau A+ rated company with over 30 years of experience in the Washington, DC./Maryland/Virginia area. We have a great deal of experience in waterproofing, mold testing, and mold remediation, and we want to make you feel at home again. Contact us online or by calling 1-866-999-3110 or 301-766-4420.  To see what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Houzz.