If you are in the process of installing a sump pump but not sure exactly what a weep hole is, then you’re definitely in the right place. In this article, I’m going to explain everything about why you need a weep hole in your sump pumps, the location of the weep hole, and the installation process.
What is a Weep Hole?
There are many people who might be wondering exactly what a weep hole is and what purpose it plays. Well, to make it brief, a weep hole is a hole drilled specifically into the discharge pipe to prevent air locks. If air find its way inside, your pump won’t be able to pump out water.
Read: Best Sump Pump For Flooded Basement
Why it’s Necessary to Create a Vent Hole in Sump Pumps
The job of a weep hole job is to prevent an airlock. This normally happens when you have a huge amount of water getting into the pit, and the pump starts up, trapping air inside.
What happens is that the extra air usually makes it way into your discharge pipe between the discharge port and the check valve. If the air gets trapped in there and has nowhere to escape to via a weep hole, then it will form an airlock.
Your pump will be operating smoothly and pumping away, but nothing will be coming out the end of the discharge pipe. You won’t be seeing any water being pumped out.
So, any time you experience your pump humming, but see nothing coming out of the discharge pipe, then chances are there’s an airlock. This is why you need a vent, or weep, hole.
Where to Drill a Weep Hole?
The location of your weep hole should be few inches above the main pump, in the discharge pipe.
It’s a good idea to drill at a 45-degree angle so that the weep hole has a better chance of pointing down towards the bottom of the basin. By doing this, you will ensure that the water is not sprayed sideways or upwards or sprayed onto the pit. (Whenever the pump is running, you’ll notice some water starts to spit out — this is completely normal.) It also helps to reduce the sound.
With the weep hole correctly positioned, you can expect your pump to start working smoothly and you will notice the water being released from the discharged pump.
How to Install a Weep Hole
Tools Required
To install a weep hole for your sump pump, you will need the following tools:
- Drill
- 3/16″ drill bit
- Safety glasses
Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to install a weep hole for your sump pump:
- Turn off the power to the sump pump.
- Remove the sump pump from the pit.
- Locate the check valve and the discharge valve.
- Using a drill with a 3/16″ drill bit, drill a hole at a downward angle of 45 degrees between the check valve and the discharge valve. Ensure that the hole is no bigger than 3/16″.
- Reinstall the sump pump in the pit and attach the discharge pipe.
- Turn on the power to the sump pump.
- Test the sump pump and the weep hole by filling the pit with a few buckets of water.
Troubleshooting Common Weep Hole Problems
Clogging Issues
One of the most common problems with weep holes is clogging. When debris, dirt, or other materials accumulate in the hole, it can cause the sump pump to malfunction. To prevent clogging, it is important to clean the weep hole regularly. This can be done by using a small brush or a toothbrush to remove any debris that has accumulated.
Another way to prevent clogging is to install a filter over the weep hole. This will prevent debris from entering the hole and causing problems. Filters can be purchased at most hardware stores and are easy to install.
Incorrect Hole Size
Another common problem with weep holes is incorrect hole size. If the hole is too small, it can become clogged easily. If the hole is too large, it can cause water to leak out of the sump pump. To ensure that the weep hole is the correct size, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
If the weep hole is too small, it can be enlarged by using a drill with a larger bit. If the hole is too large, it can be filled with epoxy or sealed with a rubber plug.
Maintenance Tips for the Sump Pump Weep Hole
To ensure that your sump pump weep hole is functioning properly, it is essential to perform regular maintenance. Here are some tips that can help:
- Check the weep hole regularly to ensure that it is not clogged with debris or dirt. A clogged weep hole can cause your sump pump to malfunction or even fail.
- Make sure that the weep hole is positioned correctly. It should be located above the water line and below the check valve.
- Test the weep hole periodically by pouring water into the sump pit. The water should flow out of the weep hole smoothly.
- If you notice any issues with the weep hole, it may be necessary to adjust the position or size of the hole. Consult with a professional if you are unsure how to do this.
- If you live in an area with hard water, it is important to clean the weep hole regularly to prevent mineral buildup.
- Consider installing a weep hole cover to prevent debris from entering the hole and causing blockages.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your sump pump weep hole is functioning properly and avoid costly repairs or replacements.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do you actually need a weep hole in sump pump?
It’s safe to say that most models on the market tend to need a weep hole just to prevent airlocks from happening.
Q. Where exactly should the weep hole be on a sump pump?
Check your owner’s manual, as the recommended location may differ slightly from model to model. Otherwise follow the guidelines in this article or consult with a plumber.
Q. How big should a weep hole be?
Again, check your owner’s manual first for model-specific advice. Otherwise follow the guidelines in this article or check with your plumber.
Conclusion
The weep hole is a crucial component of the sump pump system and plays a vital role in keeping your basement or crawl space dry. It allows excess water to escape and prevents the pump from overheating, which can lead to costly repairs. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the weep hole is kept clean and free of debris to ensure the efficient operation of your sump pump.
Regular maintenance and inspection of your sump pump system can help you avoid potential water damage and ensure a dry and safe living environment.