If you are tired of having a smelly sump pump, then don’t worry, you’re in the right place! A sump pump with an unpleasant smell is very common but fixing it is quite a simple process.
Many people don’t take the time to properly maintain their sump pump, which leads to it being stinky and smelly. So the easiest fix is to just clean your sump pump on a regular basis.
The number one reason why your sump pump might have that weird unpleasant smell is because the sump pit has completely dried out. If left untreated, the smell will eventually take over the entire basement and can even spread inside your house. Here are some useful tips for successfully deodorizing your sump pump.
1. Cover the Sump Pit By Using an Air Tight Lid
The first thing you might want to do is use a basin cover to properly cover the the sump pit. This will minimize airflow inside the pit, and prevent the smell from escaping. If possible, you should use an airtight lid. If you don’t have that option, then try your best to seal the pit as tightly as possible.
2. Keep the Right Amount of Water in the Pit
You may find you have standing water inside your sump pit. This is much better than letting your sump pit dry out completely. If you keep the right amount of water on the bottom and cover the drain hole, the smell that is inside the pipe will have no choice but to stay contained.
Make sure that the water is clean. Any sediment or contaminants can contribute to creating an unpleasant smell. You also definitely don’t want any smell of sewage in your basement.
3. Use Bleach to Disinfect the Basin
If you want to keep things as sanitary as possible, then you can use bleach. This will help to remove any odors by killing germs and bacteria. Keep in mind that the water that gets inside your basement collects all kinds of dirt, debris and chemicals as it makes its way inside the pit, so, cleaning your sump basin using bleach and warm water is a smart decision.
Best practice is to clean your sump basin and pump with diluted bleach at least once per year.
4. Clean the Pit Using Vinegar
This might sound a bit unusual, but cleaning your sump pit with vinegar can be incredibly effective. The first step is to take a bucket full of warm water and add a bottle of vinegar to it.
Now you can scrub the sump pit by soaking a sponge in the mixture and then getting to work. You can even wipe the exterior of your sump pump using this warm water and vinegar mixture. It’s a wonderfully safe, simple and effective way to remove that stinky basement smell!
5. Always Keep the Drain Lines Clean
Most of the time, the weird unpleasant smell that causes the sump pump to stink actually comes from the drain lines. These are the ideal places for mildew, mold and other smell-causing organisms to grow. And due to the fact that they’re hard to get to, most people tend to avoid cleaning them.
However, if you try your best to clean it at least two times per year, you will never have to worry about any bad smells coming out from your sump pump. The easiest way is to run hot water through them using your garden hose. You can also use soapy water with a little bleach added for best results.
Check: Best Sump Pump For Muddy Water
Maintaining a Sump Pump
A sump pump is an essential piece of equipment in any home with a basement or crawl space. It helps to keep the area dry by pumping out excess water that may accumulate due to heavy rainfall, melting snow, or other sources. However, like any other mechanical device, a sump pump requires regular maintenance to keep it working properly. Here are some tips on how to maintain your sump pump.
Regular Cleaning
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your sump pump is to clean it regularly. Over time, debris such as dirt, sand, and gravel can accumulate in the sump pit, causing the pump to work harder than it needs to. To clean the sump pit, follow these steps:
- Unplug the pump or turn off the circuit breaker that powers it.
- Remove the pump from the pit.
- Use a wet/dry vacuum or a scoop to remove any debris from the pit.
- Check the pump for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Clean the pump with a damp cloth or sponge.
Proper Ventilation
Another important aspect of sump pump maintenance is ensuring that the area around the pump is properly ventilated. A poorly ventilated sump pit can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can not only cause unpleasant odors but also health problems. To ensure proper ventilation, follow these steps:
- Ensure that the sump pit has a tight-fitting lid to prevent moisture from escaping.
- Install a vent pipe that runs from the sump pit to the outside of the house.
- Ensure that the vent pipe is properly sealed and free of any obstructions.
Professional Inspection
While regular cleaning and proper ventilation can go a long way towards maintaining your sump pump, it’s also important to have it inspected by a professional on a regular basis. A professional inspection can help to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. Some things that a professional may look for during an inspection include:
- Signs of wear and tear on the pump itself.
- Damage to the float switch or other components.
- Proper alignment of the pump and discharge pipe.
- Proper operation of the check valve.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your sump pump stays in good working order for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained sump pump is an essential part of any home’s waterproofing system, so don’t neglect it.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do sump pumps smell?
The truth to be told is that all sump pumps tend to have an odor but if you take the time out to clean them regularly then you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
Q. Is it possible for a sump pump to smell like gas?
Yes, your sump pump may smell like gas after experiencing a heavy rainfall and if somehow the water level gets a bit too low and the smell in the sewer starts to make its way into your basement.
Q. Do sump pumps smell when its rain?
If your basin actually smells each time it rains, it means that your pump is producing too much power and because of this it is over draining your basin.
Conclusion
Deodorizing a sump pump is an essential maintenance task that should be performed regularly. It helps to prevent unpleasant odors from permeating the air in your home and also ensures that your sump pump functions optimally.
There are several methods you can use to deodorize your sump pump, including using a basin cover, disinfecting with bleach, or even using deodorizing tablets. Choosing the right method depends on the cause of the odor and the severity of the problem.
It is important to note that regular maintenance of your sump pump is crucial in preventing odors from developing. This includes checking for cracks or damage in the pump, removing any debris or sediment from the basin, and ensuring that the pump is operating correctly.
Overall, deodorizing your sump pump is a simple task that can be accomplished with a few basic tools and supplies. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can eliminate unpleasant odors and ensure that your sump pump is functioning correctly.