Sump pumps defend your home against basement flooding, which is a problem for many area residents. If your house flooded before, or if you live in an area experiencing heavy rains, consider adding a sump pump to keep your Alto, MI home safe and dry.
If you continuously have plumbing problems, the issue may be in your main sewer line. Call us for our sewer video inspection service to find out.
Benefits of Battery-Powered Sump Pump Installation
Many homeowners choose to install a battery backup sump pump in case of a blackout. Doing so ensures that your home is protected against flooding in case the power goes out and there is a heavy rain storm.
If you're considering installing a battery-powered sump pump, give us a call! Our experienced and licensed plumbers can make sure you know your options so you can make the right decision for your home.
Is a Sump Pump Necessary?
A sump pump is a device installed in the basement to pump out excess water, causing a flood if you don’t have a pump. Many residents don’t think they need a sump pump, but here are a few things to consider.
- Keeps Basement & Crawlspace Dry - When the pump pit fills with water, the pump activates and forces the water out of the house.
- Prevents Mold & Mildew - Another benefit of a sump pump is that it keeps your basement dry, which prevents the buildup of mold and mildew, both of which can lead to health problems.
- Alerts Homeowner When Water Level is High - If the pump doesn’t work, the system can alert the homeowner that the basement or crawlspace is in danger of flooding. Many newer sump pumps can call the person’s cell phone if they’re away from the house to alert them of danger.
- Adds Value to the Home - The addition of a sump pump adds value to the house and makes it more attractive to a potential buyer.
Call us to find out more information if you’re still on the fence about a sump pump installation.
Sump Pump Maintenance
A sump pump must work when needed, which is why you must keep it well-maintained, so it’s ready to work when called on. Here are a few simple tips to keep your sump pump in tip-top shape.
Every 3-4 months:
- Clean the pump inlet screen.
- Check the power cord and make sure it’s connected.
- Dump a bucket of water into the pit to test that the pump activates.
Once a year:
- Remove the pump from the sump for cleaning and inspection.
- Clean the sump.
- Lubricate the bearings if the owner’s manual calls for it.
- Check the power cord to make sure it’s connected.
- Dump a bucket of water into the pit to test that the pump activates.
If you’re not sure that your sump pump is working properly, call Sheely Plumbing Inc. and ask about our sump pump maintenance service.
If you’re not satisfied with the water in your Alto or Grand Rapids home, call Sheely Plumbing Inc. and ask about our water filtration service.
Signs You Need Sump Pump Replacement
Since your sump pump is the first line of defense against basement flooding, it must work when needed. To ensure your system is ready to handle the task, watch out for these signs telling you that it’s time to replace your sump pump.
- Excessive Noise - While your sump pump may not operate in total silence, if you notice excessive noise or loud operation you’ve not heard before, it could be time for a replacement.
- Foul Odor - As a sump pump fails, it may not get the water out as quickly as it should, which can lead to mold and mildew building up in the basement.
- Runs When Dry - If the pump runs when there’s no water activating it, it could be installed improperly, or it may need to be replaced.