Maintaining Sump Pumps in New Jersey

Maintaining Sump Pumps in New Jersey

A good sump pump is your best friend when the rain starts pouring. Maintaining sump pumps in New Jersey is absolutely essential. We get heavy rains in the spring and summer that will leave you swimming in scummy water if you're not careful. Don't forget hurricane season as well. Your sump pump is the first line of defense.

How Sump Pumps Work

Located usually at a low point in the basement, the sump pump is situated so that water wells into it. When the water reaches a certain level, it activates a float and the pump starts pumping, moving the water out of your house and far away from your foundation.

Maintaining Your Sump Pump

Maintaining sump pumps in New Jersey so that they work properly is easy. Most are low maintenance. It's something you should do on a regular basis and especially before spring starts because this one simple device might save your home.

Performing Your Sump Pump Check-up

Once every three or four months, you should perform a basic, simple sump pump check-up. It should include:

Cleaning the inlet screen. Make sure the inlet screen isn't clogged with residue or debris. It needs to be clear.

Checking the cord. Make sure the cord is plugged in and getting power. Check to make sure it's not damaged.

Making sure the float arm is unobstructed. The float arm is what indicates that the pump should start. It should be able to move freely.

Checking pump position. The pump should be upright. Pumps move and vibrate during operation and this causes them to fall or tilt. As a result, keep it secure.

Your basic inspection should only take a few minutes. But these few minutes can save your home's life if there's a big rain. Maintaining sump pumps in New Jersey is essential for your home's health.