Summer Storms and Sump Pumps

After weeks of hot temperatures and dry conditions, many homeowners welcome the arrival of summer thunderstorms. While rain is great for lawns, gardens, and recovering from drought conditions, heavy downpours can quickly put your home's drainage system to the test.

Your sump pump serves as the first line of defense against water entering your basement or crawl space. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not discover a problem until the pump is needed during a storm. Now is the perfect time to make sure your sump pump is ready for the rainy season.

Simple Sump Pump Checks

• Check that the pump is plugged into a dedicated outlet.

• Make sure the discharge pipe is clear and directing water away from your home's foundation.

• Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and verify the pump turns on and removes the water. Listen for unusual noises that may indicate wear or a failing motor.

• If your system has a battery backup, test it to ensure it is operating properly. Often, the battery is inoperable and needs to be replaced before the backup pump fails, especially if it has not been maintained.

• Inspect stairway drains and basement floor drains for leaves, dirt, debris, and other obstructions. These drains often discharge into the sump pit and can contribute to water buildup if they become clogged.

How Long Should a Sump Pump Last?

Most sump pumps have an expected service life of approximately 5 to 7 years, depending on usage and operating conditions. A pump that has been in service for several years may still appear to be working properly, but internal components can wear over time.

Drought conditions can sometimes create a false sense of security because sump pumps may go months without running. Once the ground becomes saturated from repeated storms, however, a sump pump may need to operate frequently to keep water away from your home. If your pump is approaching the 5 to 7 year mark, it may be a good time to consider replacement before a major storm puts it to the test.

Consider a Battery Backup System

Summer storms often bring another challenge besides heavy rain: power outages. A sump pump cannot protect your home if it loses power when you need it most.

A battery backup system provides an additional layer of protection by allowing your sump pump system to continue operating during an electrical outage. While the cost of installing a battery backup system is significantly higher than a standard sump pump installation, many homeowners find the added peace of mind well worth the investment.

Wacker Plumbing Can Help

At Wacker Plumbing, we install and service dependable Zoeller sump pumps and battery backup systems. Whether you need a routine inspection, repair, or replacement, our team is here to help keep your home protected during the summer storm season.

Call Wacker Plumbing at 703-450-5565 or visit WackerPlumbing.com to schedule service.

Request A Service