Sump Pumps: Prepare Your Home Now for the Rain Ahead!

May 14, 2024

Heavy rains can come unexpectedly and it is crucial to ensure your sump pump is in working order. When intense rain or rising water threatens, your sump pump should kick into action, efficiently moving water from your basement to the outside, preventing costly damage and repairs.

Equipped with sensors, a sump pump detects increasing water levels. Once water reaches a critical point, the pump activates, directing excess water through a discharge pipe away from your home’s foundation.

It is especially advisable this time of year to test and maintain your sump pump. Begin by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and watching for the float to activate the pump and ensure there’s no debris hindering its operation. Checking your sump pump regularly can save you from expensive headaches down the line.

Sump pumps come in various types, powered by electricity, battery, or water. Primary pumps are typically hardwired, while backup pumps and alarm systems specific to sump pumps are available for emergencies and power outages. If you detect any problems, please consult a qualified professional who can advise and repair your sump pump before it is too late.

Signs it might be time to replace your sump pump:

Producing abnormally loud noises, like clanging or screaming – usually indicative of the motor’s failure.
Continuously cycling or running – also an indication that failure is imminent if the cause of constant pumping is not determined immediately (such as inappropriate sizing for your home/water volume, float switch malfunction, etc.,)
Advanced age – regardless of how effective your sump pump has been, it should be replaced to prevent high repair costs in your home. Another reason to regularly test its efficacy and maintain sufficient purchasing records for tracking before bullet points 1 or 2 occur.

As always, review your homeowners insurance policy with our Robertson Ryan team to ensure you have the proper coverage in place. Water backup insurance is a type of insurance that covers damage caused by water backing up into a home from a sewer, drain or due to a sump pump failure. With many insurance carriers, this is a separate endorsement to add to your policy. If you have a battery back-up you may qualify for a discount.