Sump Pump Failure Can Cause Substantial Damage

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

A Columbus Kansas basement underwater after the sump pumpfailed during heavy rains.

Many area homes and businesses have basements or crawl spaces. During times of rainfall sump pumps are used to keep these areas from flooding. The problem is, ownership of a sump pumpdoes not guarantee you won’t experience a flood. Like everything else associated with your home the sump pump can fail.  Being in the basement or crawlspace the sump pump is many times forgotten about. Out of sight, out of mind. Overlooking normal testing of the sump pump can be a critical and expensive mistake.

• Testing the pump. Test the pump by adding a little water to the pump well. Just add enough water to lift the float mechanism to engage the pump. If it begins to pump the water out you are good to go.
• Check for blockage. After testing the pump follow the water out and away from your home. Make sure there is no blockage that would prevent water from building up and back flowing.
• Have a backup plan. Most all sump pumps work off an electrical connection through a normal wall outlet. But if the electricity to your property is knocked out do you have aback up plan? There are options available. You might want to consult your local plumber for the solution that is best for you.