Check the sump pump
A sump pump sits unused for weeks and then has to work the moment the water rises. A quick test tells you it will start when you need it.
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Last reviewed against 2 official sources.
Who this is for
Homes with a sump pit in the basement or crawl space.
How often should I test my sump pump?
Zoeller, a pump maker, says a pump that sits idle for long stretches should be run at least once a month, and that the pump, pit and battery backup should be cleaned and checked periodically. Your own pump’s manual decides.
From: Zoeller Pump Company
What you need
Tools
- Bucket
- Flashlight
- Gloves
Supplies
- Water for the test
Steps
- Look at the power cordCheck that the pump is plugged in and the cord shows no damage or wear. Zoeller says not to run a pump with a damaged cord.
- Unplug it and clear the pitWith the power off, remove mud, silt, sand and other debris from the basin.
- Check the floatThe float switch should move up and down freely with nothing in its way.
- Plug it back in and add waterPour water slowly into the pit until the float lifts. The pump should start on its own.
- Watch the water leaveThe water level should drop and the pump should stop by itself.
- Check outsideFind where the discharge pipe ends and make sure water came out and ran away from the house.
- Check the battery backupIf you have a backup system, check it as its manual describes. Ready.gov suggests considering a sump pump with a battery.
Safety notes
- Unplug the pump before you put your hands in the pit.
- Keep cords, plugs and your hands dry when you reconnect the power.
- Never run the pump if the cord is damaged.
When to call a professional
- The pump does not start. Zoeller suggests checking for a tripped breaker, a blocked float or a clogged intake screen first.
- The pump runs without stopping, or water comes back into the pit after it shuts off.
- Any wiring work, or replacing the pump or its check valve, if you are not confident doing it.
Sources
- Guide to choosing and maintaining a sump pump (opens in a new tab)Zoeller Pump Company · Manufacturer
- Floods (opens in a new tab)Ready.gov (U.S. Department of Homeland Security) · Government
This guide is general information written in our own words from the sources above. Your owner’s manual and the instructions for your own equipment come first.
Tell it once. It remembers.
Run an idle pump at least once a month; your pump’s manual decides.