Your sump pump is vital to your plumbing system, especially in areas prone to flooding or excess moisture. It works tirelessly, especially during the rainy spring months in Cincinnati, to keep basements dry and prevent water damage.  

However, like any mechanical device, sump pumps can encounter issues from time to time. Before reaching for the phone to call a plumber, it’s worth taking a moment to troubleshoot the problem yourself. 

Here’s a handy guide to help you troubleshoot your broken sump pump before calling for repair.

Check the power supply
The first step in troubleshooting your sump pump is to ensure it receives power. Check if the pump is plugged in correctly and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Sometimes, a simple power interruption can cause the pump to stop working.

Inspect the float switch
The float switch activates the sump pump when the water level rises. Make sure the float switch moves freely and isn’t obstructed by debris. If the float switch is stuck in the “off” position, it won’t trigger the pump to turn on.

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Clear debris
Over time, debris such as dirt, gravel, or small stones can accumulate in the sump pit and obstruct the pump’s intake. Check the pit for any debris and remove it carefully. Ensure the pump’s intake screen is clean and free from blockages.

Test the check valve
The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit once the pump has been activated. Test the check valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly. You can do this by pouring water into the pit and observing if it flows back or if the valve holds it in place.

Inspect the discharge pipe
Check the discharge pipe connected to the sump pump for clogs or obstructions. Sometimes, debris can accumulate in the pipe, preventing proper water flow. Use a plumber’s snake or a garden hose to clear any blockages.

Check the float switch
Manually lift the float switch to simulate a high water level and observe if the pump turns on. Listen for unusual noises or vibrations, which could indicate a problem with the pump motor or impeller. The pump may require professional repair if it doesn’t activate or exhibits abnormal behavior.

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Consult your user manual
If you’re unsure about any aspect of your sump pump’s operation or troubleshooting steps, refer to the manufacturer’s user manual. It contains valuable information on maintenance procedures, troubleshooting tips, and safety precautions.

If you have persistent problems with your sump pump or are unsure about performing any repairs yourself, don’t hesitate to call the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter. Timely maintenance and repairs are essential for ensuring your sump pump continues to protect your home from water damage. We’re here to help.

Your home’s sump pump plays an important role in keeping your basement dry. And here in Cincinnati, where hills abound, it’s especially important that your sump pump stays working the way it should. Otherwise, rainwater is apt to pool in the basement. That, in turn, can compromise many areas of your home. 

When your sump pump works properly, it removes water from the basement by moving it through the sump pit before pushing it out from the property through pipes. Should the sump pump become too dirty or clogged, however, it’s apt not to work effectively and leave water to pool on the floor.  

This is why it’s important to clean your sump pump annually. But you don’t need to hire a professional to do it. Just follow these easy steps to do it yourself. Pro tip: Choose a sunny, dry day for this task. You’ll need to keep the sump pump working on rainy days! 

What you’ll need: 

Steps to cleaning a sump pump

Step #1: Choose an area outdoors near the hose, where you can clean the sump pump. This is a messy job so it’s best to do it outside. 

Step #2: Unplug the sump pump. This is a very important step. Attempting to clean the pump while it is still connected to the power source can be dangerous. 

Step #3. Use a tarp or large sheet of plastic to wrap the bottom of the sump pump. 

Step #4: Spray all sides of the sump pump. Loosen any residue with the hose. Then, use the sponge or a rag to wipe off any remaining residue. Afterwards, dry the pump with a towel. 

Step #5: Drain the check valve, catching any water in the bucket. 

Step #6: Dry the sump pump with a towel. You can also use a shop vac to remove any remaining water from the sump pit. 

Step #7: Remove the tarp or plastic sheet. Then, reconnect the sump pump and turn the power back on. 

It should take less than an hour to clean your sump pump, but once you’re finished, you can sit back and relax, knowing that you just helped your basement stay dry after those heavy Cincinnati downpours. 

Need more plumbing advice? You’ll find more helpful tips on our blog or call or contact the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter.  We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. We’re here to help you with your sump pump needs, and more.

Cincinnati’s hilly terrain is ground-zero for hard working sump pumps. Your home’s sump pump has a very important job to do. It protects your basement from flooding when water creeps in from heavy rainfall or after a snowstorm. If it isn’t working properly, by drawing water in as it pools on the basement floor, the water can settle. This can lead to wood rot, mold and even foundation problems.

Luckily, it doesn’t take much time or effort to keep your sump pump working at its best. As long as you schedule regular maintenance from an experienced plumber and know what to do – and what not to do – for your sump pump, it will help keep your basement dry for years to come.

Take a look at our list below of sump pump do’s and don’ts. We recommend having this list handy and taking a peek at it every so often to make sure you’re doing what you need to keep your sump pump purring.

Sump Pump “Do’s”

Do hire a professional plumber to install your sump pump (Allied Reddi-Rooter). While some homeowners choose to install a sump pump they buy at the local home improvement store on their own, we do not recommend going this route. Installing a sump pump incorrectly can lead to a pump failure which can keep your home’s water at its lowest level. This, in turn, can cause major damage.

Do listen to the motor. We recommend taking time to listen to the sump pump motor on a regular basis. If it’s working properly, you should hear the motor hum and the occasional sloshing of water. If you start hearing new noises, it’s time to call the plumber.

Do install a battery backup system. Sump pumps run on electricity. But what if your power goes out during a storm and your sump pump stops working, just when you need it the most? This scenario is precisely why we recommend installing a battery backup system.

Do regularly clean the pipes. Make a point of routinely checking the drainage pipes to make sure there’s no debris that could cause a blockage. It’s important to also clean the area around the sump pump to make sure debris from the floor doesn’t get pushed into the pump during a storm.

Do schedule routine maintenance. Sump pumps are extremely reliable and durable. Still, it’s important that you have a plumbing professional check it every year to make sure it’s working properly. If it isn’t, they can make the necessary repairs to get it back up and running quickly.

Sump Pump Don’ts

Don’t flush products that aren’t biodegradable down drains. This includes paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or face wipes – no matter how “flushable” it says they are on the packaging.

Don’t pour chemicals in the sump pump. Paints, most cleaning products, floor wax and acids should never be put in the sump pump. If you try to flush these chemicals down the sump pump, they can end up in the city water supply and cause contamination.

Don’t ever try to lift the sump pump out of the ground. Or try to repair your sump pump on your own.

Don’t DIY sump pump installation. As we mentioned above, this should only be done by a licensed, experienced plumber.

Need to repair or replace your sump pump? Allied Reddi-Rooter has been Cincinnati’s sump pump experts for decades. We exclusively sell and install  Zoeller sump pumps. They are the absolute best quality product avaialable. Learn more about Allied Redd-Rooter’s sump pump services. Our Cincinnati sump pump reiar team is here to help you in your time of need.

A wet basement floor is concerning, whether you’ve been living in your home for a longtime or just moved in. If you’ve started to notice puddles of water on your basement floor or in your crawlspace, it’s important to act fast. If you don’t, it could lead to mold issues or costly foundation problems. 

One of the first things you’ll need to know is whether or not your basement has a sump pump, which is essential for removing water from the basement floor and funneling it through your drainage system. And while many basements in Cincinnati have a sump pump, some do not. 

The American Society of Home Inspectors reports that nearly 60% of homes in the U.S. have some moisture in their basement or crawl space. That’s why it’s important to understand what a sump pump does, what to look for when it’s time to purchase one, and how to maintain your sump pump so it keeps your basement from flooding. 

Here at Allied Reddi-Rooter, we often get asked about sump pumps, so we decided to answer some of the most common questions about this important plumbing device below.   

What is a sump pump? Where is it located?

The sump pump is located in the basement floor or crawl space, and its job is to make sure that the space doesn’t flood as water creeps in – usually after a heavy snowfall, a big rainstorm, or after a pipe bursts. Water will always pool in the lowest part of the house, so that’s where the sump pump needs to be. 

How does a sump pump work?

As water begins creep into the basement and onto the floor, it will activate the sump pump to start working by drawing the water into it. Then, the pump will push the water into the dry well or the drainage system under the home. Once the water in the basement is cleared, the sump pump will turn off. If it did its job, you’ll no longer have pooled water on the basement floor. 

Do I need a sump pump?

Yes. Many homes already have a sump pump, which serves as an integral part of the basement’s drainage system. If yours does not, we encourage you to invest in one. Without one, water can (and often will) accumulate in the lowest part of your home, whether it’s a crawlspace, a basement or the foundation. Without a sump pump, that water can settle. This leads to wood rot, mold, and even foundation problems. 

What do I look for when buying a sump pump?

First, you’ll need to choose between a submersible pump and a pedestal pump. While pedestal pumps can be less expensive, they tend to have a higher failure rate than submersible pumps. With pedestal models, the float switch can get so inundated with water that it can become too heavy to lift. 

You’ll also need to choose between a cast iron and a plastic sump pump. Obviously, a cast iron pump will last longer than one made from plastic, although plastic is more affordable. And mechanical switches tend to last longer than sump pumps with pressurized switches. Have a large basement that serves as a living space, too? If so, you may want to consider a back-up, second sump pump as well. 

Allied Reddi-Rooter carries sump pumps by Zoeller, known for their efficiency, durability and quality.   

How do I clean and maintain my sump pump? 

First, clean the screen gently with soap and water. Then, check to make sure that the power cord is connected and that the sump pump is receiving power. From there, test the float. If you pour water on it and works, you’re good to go. If it doesn’t turn on, give us a call. 

Once a year, do a deep cleaning by pulling the sump pump out of the ground and cleaning it entirely. You’ll also want to clean the pit. Make sure to remove all dirt and debris that has accumulated over the year. 

How often should I clean my sump pump? 

Great question! We recommend cleaning your sump pump at least every four months. This will help prevent any buildup of debris to keep your sump pump working at its best for years – if not decades – to come. Worried you’ll forget? Fair enough. At the very least, you’ll need to clean your sump pump at the beginning of spring before snow melts, and after a significant rainfall or storm. This will give you the chance to inspect the pump to make sure it is working properly. 

Need to have your sump pump inspected or repaired? Ready to install a sump pump in your basement? Whatever your sump pump needs are, we’re here to help. We’ve been fitting Cincinnati homes with high-quality sump pumps by Zoeller for decades. We can also repair and replace your existing sump pump systems. Learn more on our Sump Pump website page.  If you’ve got a wet basement, don’t delay. Call or contact  the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter to learn more. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. We’re here to help Cincinnati homeowners with all their plumbing needs. You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask us a question.

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