People who live in low-lying places require a dependable sump pump to assist them in pumping excess water away from their homes. When you install a sump pump system in your home, you’ll need to be able to trust it to function properly. Sump pumps are normally reliable, however problems might arise that cause them to clog.
Since this pump is meant to draw water up from the sump pit’s bottom, material such as leaves, sticks, and tiny boulders might become caught in the pump or hose. Dirt might also accumulate in the pump or hose, preventing water from passing through. To understand how a blockage can happen, it’s helpful to know how a sump pump functions.
A sump pump suctions water from the bottom of the sump pit and pushes it through the inside of the pump, or chamber, and out into the hose, which flows into the drain. If any of these structures get clogged
How to Identify a Clog in a Sump Pump
- If there is snow in the discharge pipe
- Rust particles
- Dirt in float switch
- Debris in the pump, drain, and basin
Basically anything that fits through a pipe has the potential to clog your sump pump. The primary contenders for this reason are debris and small plastic garbage, which are frequently reported by users. Additionally, blockage might be caused by other comparable tiny objects. The main pipe of the pump might potentially freeze in the winter, preventing an uniform flow of water.
How to Unclog Your Sump Pump
There are a few things you can do to unclog a sump pump that are sure to work. But keep in mind that not all sump pumps can be fixed in the same way. It’s possible that you’ll have to experiment to see what works best with your machine.
Here is a list of steps to unclog your sump pump:
- Examine the discharge line thoroughly to see if it is in good working order. Dust, dirt, trash, or other things may have accumulated inside.
- All cables connecting the hose or discharge lines should be disconnected.
- Uncover the sump pump.
- Its very important to look for a searchlight thoroughly because you’ll need it in order to see the pumps opening screen. It’s possible that you’ll need to remove the pump from the basin a little more thoroughly.
- Examine the screen or small hole through which the water enters the pump. Examine the pump with a headlamp or flashlight while it is still in the basin. Lift the pump out of the pit if you can’t see the pump intake well, and set it in the bucket or on a tarp if the flooring material is sensitive to water.
- To protect the basement floor, remove the pump and set it on a piece of cloth or plastic.
- Remove anything that might be clogging the lines.
- Wipe off the pump walls and empty the sump pit of any sludge, mud, or silt.
- Inside the sump pit, replace the pump. Make sure it’s straight and level on the sump’s foundation.
- Reconnect all cables.
Tips
When the sump pump is filthy and covered in debris that might easily clog the entrance, it may be easiest to take it outdoors in a bucket and rinse it with a strong stream of water. Consider resolving the source of the debris if the sump pump inlet clogs often due to debris entering the sump basin on a regular basis.
There’s a good probability that the water level in your basement will start to recede if luck is on your side and you’ve taken proper care of the problem. However, if this doesn’t work out, it’s important to acknowledge that you’ve done everything you can and that the next step might be to seek expert advice to take a look onto the problem, it will probably cost you to get this done but the longer you wait the worse the situation will get.
Read: Best Sump Pump Check Valves
How to Prevent Your Sump Pump From Clogging
The main solution to keep your sump pump from clogging is to line the sump basin with a filter mesh that will keep most of the debris out. Unfortunately, with time, the fabric will become blocked with silt and debris, so keep an eye on it and replace the fabric from time to time
If your pump isn’t in a basin and is instead in a dirt pit, installing a basin is the best option. Wrap the bottom of the pump in filter cloth just until you get the basin for it to go in. Always keep an eye on the fabric and replace it if necessary.
If there are drain lines entering the basin, a third alternative is to put filters in the apertures where the drain lines enter.
When to Call a Professional
While unclogging a sump pump is a task that can be done by most homeowners, there are times when it’s best to call in a professional. Here are a few instances when it’s recommended to seek professional help:
1. Persistent Clogs
If you’ve tried all the DIY methods to unclog your sump pump, and it’s still not working, then it’s time to call a professional. They have the necessary tools and expertise to identify and fix the root cause of the problem.
2. Electrical Issues
If you suspect that there’s an electrical issue with your sump pump, it’s best to call in a professional. They can safely diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring that your sump pump is working correctly.
3. Regular Maintenance
If you don’t have the time or expertise to perform regular maintenance on your sump pump, then it’s best to call in a professional. They can perform routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning the sump pit, checking the float switch, and inspecting the discharge line.
4. New Installations
If you’re installing a new sump pump system, it’s best to call in a professional. They can help you choose the right system for your needs, and ensure that it’s installed correctly. Installing a sump pump incorrectly can lead to serious problems such as basement flooding.
With that being said, while unclogging a sump pump can be done by most homeowners, there are times when it’s best to call in a professional. If you’re experiencing persistent clogs, electrical issues, need regular maintenance, or are installing a new system, it’s recommended to seek professional help.
Conclusion
Unclogging a sump pump is a task that requires patience and attention to detail. It is essential to perform regular maintenance to prevent blockages and ensure that the pump is functioning correctly. The following steps can help you unclog your sump pump:
- Open the lid of the basin.
- Check the sides and bottom of the pit for heavy accumulation of silt or any objects blocking the intake strainer of the pump.
- Try to remove as much silt as you can and clear out the surroundings of the strainer.
- Test the pump for any improvement.
- Unclog the pump’s inlet and impeller.
It is also essential to prevent clogging in the first place. You can do this by performing regular maintenance, such as cleaning the pump’s inlet and impeller and checking the drain lines for blockages. It is also a good idea to install a backup sump pump to ensure that your basement does not flood in case of a power outage or pump failure.
It’s safe to say that unclogging a sump pump is a simple task that requires some basic knowledge and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your sump pump is functioning correctly and prevent basement flooding. Regular maintenance is key to preventing clogs and ensuring that your pump is working correctly.