How to Clean a Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump in your home, then it’s important to know how to clean it properly. A dirty or clogged sump pump will not be able to do its job properly, and this could lead to water damage and flooding.

In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of how to clean a sump pump. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent it from becoming clogged in the first place.

What You’ll Need:

Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few supplies.

Now that you’ve gotten your hands on the supplies you’ll be needing, it’s time to get started.

Step 1 - Turn Off the Power

The first step is to turn off the power to your sump pump. This can usually be done by flipping a switch on your circuit breaker box. It is imperative that you never skip this step, as it is for your own safety.

If you do not turn off the power, you could electrocute yourself. This is a very serious hazard and can leave permanent damage to your body, so please take the necessary precautions.

Step 2 - Remove the Cover

Once the power is off, you can remove the cover of your sump pump. This will give you access to the interior of the pump.

Be careful when removing the cover, as there may be water inside. The last thing you’d want is to splash yourself with dirty water. To do this, you can use a small cup or container to slowly remove the water.

Step 3 - Disconnect the Hoses

There are usually two hoses connected to a sump pump: an inlet hose, and an outlet hose. The inlet hose is the one that brings water into the pump, while the outlet hose carries water away from the pump.

You’ll need to disconnect both of these hoses before you can proceed with cleaning the pump. To disconnect the hoses, simply unscrew the clamp or fitting that is holding them in place, then pull them off.

Step 4 - Clean the Interior

Once the hoses are disconnected, you can start cleaning the interior of the pump. Begin by using a brush to remove any debris or build-up that you see. If there are a lot of build-ups, you may need to use a vacuum to remove them.

Once you’ve removed the visible build-up, you can use a cleaning solution (vinegar or bleach will work) to clean the interior of the pump. Be sure to rinse away the cleaning solution completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5 - Reattach the Hoses & Cover

Now that you’ve cleaned the interior of the pump, you can reattach the hoses and cover. First, screw the clamp or fitting back into place to secure the hoses.

Then, put the cover back on, and turn on the power to your sump pump. After having carefully followed these steps, you should be all done.

Cleaning a sump pump is a fairly simple process, but it’s important to do it on a regular basis. By following the steps above, you can ensure that your sump pump is always in good working condition. If, however, you are not confident in taking on this task yourself, feel free to contact a professional for advice or assistance.

Tips on How to Prevent a Sump Pump from Becoming Clogged

Now that you know how to clean a sump pump, let’s talk about how to prevent it from becoming clogged in the first place.

Here are a few tips:

Install a filter - A filter will help catch debris before it has a chance to enter your sump pump. This will reduce the amount of build-up inside the pump, and make it easier to clean.
Clean regularly - As we mentioned before, it's important to clean your sump pump on a regular basis. This will help prevent build-up from occurring in the first place.
Be careful what you flush - When you flush something down the toilet, it has to go somewhere. Be careful of what you flush, as it could end up in your sump pump.

These are just a few tips on how to prevent your sump pump from becoming clogged. By following our sump pump maintenance advice, you can keep your sump pump functioning properly for years to come.

Should I Drill Holes in My Sump Pump Basin?

Most sump pump basins come with pre-drilled holes, but you may be wondering if you should drill additional holes.

While drilling holes in your sump pump basin can help improve drainage, it’s not necessary. The pre-drilled holes should be sufficient for most applications.

So, unless you’re having issues with your sump pump, there’s no need to drill additional holes.

How Long Does the Average Sump Pump Last?

When it comes to sump pumps, there is no definitive answer. The lifespan of a sump pump will depend on a variety of factors, such as how often it’s used, and how well it’s maintained.

On average, most sump pumps will last for several years. However, if you take good care of your sump pump, it could last for a decade or more. Here are some of the best sump pumps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sump pit in a basement?

A sump pit is a hole in the basement that collects water. This water is then pumped out by the sump pumps in order to prevent flooding.

What is a sump pump discharge pipe?

A sump pump discharge pipe is used to connect the sump pump to the sewer or storm drain. This pipe helps remove water from the pit, and prevents flooding.

Can I use a shop vac instead of a sump pump?

Yes, you can use a shop vac instead of a sump pump. However, a sump pump is more effective at removing water from the pit. A shop vac can be used in conjunction with a sump pump to remove standing water.

Cleaning your sump pump is a fairly easy and straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your sump pump is working properly and efficiently.

Regular maintenance will also help prolong the life of your sump pump. If you have any questions or concerns about cleaning your sump pump, be sure to consult with a professional.