Prevent Flood Damage in Old Town With a Sump Pump

More than 60% of American homes suffer from below-ground wetness, notes the American Society of Inspectors. A sump pump system, found in the basement or crawlspace of homes and businesses, can prevent excess water from becoming a big problem. It controls how much water gathers beneath your property and then pumps it out to a municipal storm drain or a dry well after it’s collected.

Spring is the perfect time to ensure that your sump pump is running properly and efficiently because it doesn’t take much water to cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to your property. A moist basement can also lead to mold damage and mildew growth, which bring many related health and breathing hazards.

Here are some helpful strategies to keep your sump pump running properly and efficiently:

• Read the owner’s manual to the sump pump and follow all of its directions.
• Clean the pump screen or inlet opening every three to four months. If your pump collects the discharge from an automatic washing machine, clean it more often. Before removing the pump, disconnect the unit from its power source and reconnect it after you’re done cleaning it. Next, pour enough water into the sump to cycle through the pump to ensure it’s working properly.
• Remove and clean the pump annually. The sump pit should be cleaned at this time, too. Unless your pump instruction manual indicates otherwise, no lubrication or other maintenance should be needed.
• Consider installing a water alarm that detects water leaks before they cause costly water damage and/or mold growth. With an alarm, leaks from water heaters, sink drains, broken hoses, or other sources are detected immediately. Remember, fast detection of excess water is the key to minimizing water and flood damage.