Have you come across the name sump pump? It is a device which helps a crawlspace or a basement from flooding. It is installed in a sump pit to drain water that forms thus ensuring a mold-free, dry basement and a stable foundation. Despite being a mere mechanical tool, testing it from time to time is crucial for effectiveness.
Never let small rains turn your basement into an expensive mess. Ensure that the pump and
the backup battery is working properly. Test the pump four times, doing this yearly is a good thing. Testing on a stormy day is recommended by Plumbing to see how the pump is working when hit by real rainfall.
First, confirm that water is entering from the drain tile. Use a garden hose with a bucket to increase water level to assist the pump while being tested.
Ensure the button is on and off. The switch confirms the pump is working correctly and in the right condition. Repeat the procedure for at least four times to ensure the pump is working consistently.
Check whether the valve of the pump is working properly – hold the outside of the valve when the pump is operating and switched off. Ensure that you are feeling a thump inside the valve because water is settling. The test confirms the flapper valve inside the pump is working well.
Ensure the pump vent is clear – this is the final step in the self-testing. A vent is a tiny hole in the pump casing or body. The small hole allows air caught below the pump equipment by the impeller to be released efficiently when the pump needs to work. If the vent is closed or clogged, it will not operate correctly. To take out all the water and make the hole visible, lift up and hold the pumps switch. You can separate the two plugs in the pump manually. If you see a little stream of water coming out of the pump near the bottom, it means the pump is okay.
Another way is unplugging the pump from the wall socket and waiting until it stops running. You will hear the air-gasping noise. It means that the pump vent is working properly.
If the vent is not working, it means that your pump is clogged.The blocking is due to dirty water that passes through the pump. Try scooping dirt from the sump pit then run clean water through the tool to help remove the buildup. Running clear water several times through the sump pump to ensure your drainage pipe is clear of all the dirt as well.
Plumbing Perth recommends that you repeat the above testing procedures and schedule along with annual service visit to check over the pump equipment. If you use your pump frequently, it is wise to inspect it often. The above testing will only take a few minutes of your time that could prevent severe disappointment in the future. For more information on testing the sump pump, visit Plumbing Perth.