If the groundhog is right, Spring is just around the corner! But with Spring comes a lot of mixed weather in Nebraska, so anything from snow to tornadoes goes. Mostly, we see a lot of wet conditions, and because of that, we get lots of reports of flooded basements.
Basements are the most susceptible area in your home to flooding, so it’s important to take the right measures to prevent it from happening. Even a small leak can lead to major damage over time. These damages can include:
- Foundation cracks
- Mold
- Odor
- Stains
- Rotting floor joists
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent your basement from flooding. One of the best things for your home is having a sump pump. Now, a sump pump by itself will not prevent a basement from leaking, we recommend a basement waterproofing system for that.
However, if your basement does have a leak, a sump pump can reduce your risk of flooding. To stay ahead of potential flooding this year, we’ve rounded up some quick tips to get your sump pump ready for Spring!
If you don’t have a sump pump already, now’s the time to get one!
Sump Pump Maintenance
- Check the motor by lifting the cover and pulling the float up. It should start running, but if it doesn’t, check that it’s plugged in and getting power. Call a professional like BDB Foundation Repair if it still doesn’t run.
- Find the discharge line and make sure it extends far enough away from your home to safely drain water away from your foundation. It needs to be 3-6 feet away from your foundation to drain properly.
- Look for debris in the basin. Sometimes things fall into the basin of the sump pump, potentially damaging the float mechanism. If you find anything, clear it out and double-check your float mechanism by filling the basin with water and seeing if it drains properly.
- Clean the impeller, which is a filter for debris in the water. When the filter clogs, it can make a strange noise or cause the sump pump to stop running. Checking the filter and cleaning regularly can ensure your sump pump keeps running.
- Have a backup power source for your sump pump in case of a power outage. Large storms can mean lots of rain and the possibility of a loss of power. Stay protected for the worst!
BDB Foundation Repair Can Help Instal and Maintain Your Sump Pump
BDB uses tough, reliable sump pumps in all of our basement and crawlspace systems. Our sump pumps use cast iron or stainless steel construction (depending on pump series used) and are continuous duty rated for worry-free operation. Our sump pumps are also highly energy-efficient, using up to 172% less energy than conventional pumps, and come with a no-hassle, three-year warranty on all systems — making them a key part of our basement waterproofing systems.
When we do a sump pump installation, we include a high-water sump pump alarm that will notify you if the pump stops working. We also add a check valve, which prevents water from the sump line from draining back into the sump basin after the water has already been discharged from the home.
Contact BDB Foundation Repair for your sump pump installation!
For a reliable sump pump installation that keeps your basement safe and dry, get in touch with our expert team today. We’re here to help you protect your home from water damage with quality, efficient solutions. Reach out to BDB Foundation Repair now and ensure your sump pump is installed correctly!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is a sump pump important for my basement?
A sump pump is essential for preventing basement flooding by removing water that accumulates during heavy rain or snowmelt. It helps protect your home from potential water damage, including foundation cracks, mold, and rotting floor joists.
2. How often should I maintain my sump pump?
To ensure optimal performance, it’s important to check your sump pump regularly. Inspect it before the rainy season starts, clean the impeller, check for debris in the basin, and verify the motor works by testing the float switch. Regular maintenance can prevent future issues.
3. What should I do if my sump pump isn’t working?
If your sump pump isn’t running, first ensure it’s plugged in and powered. If it still doesn’t work, check the float switch and discharge line for obstructions. If the issue persists, it’s recommended to contact a professional like BDB Foundation Repair to inspect and repair the system.
4. How far should the discharge line be from my home?
To prevent water from flowing back towards your foundation, the discharge line should be extended 3-6 feet away from your home. This ensures proper drainage and reduces the risk of water pooling around your basement.
5. Can a sump pump handle power outages during storms?
Sump pumps can stop working during a power outage. To prevent this, it’s advisable to have a backup power source, such as a battery-powered pump or generator, to ensure your sump pump continues to work during large storms.
