According to a recent report by the Canadian Climate Institute, over 10% of all buildings in Nova Scotia are situated on a 200-year floodplain.
That’s not all!
Climate change and rising sea levels are also increasing the risk of flooding, with the recent 2023 Nova Scotian floods having caused over $170 million in insured damages, particularly in areas of Halifax, Dartmouth, East & West Hants, and the counties of Queens and Lunenburg.
As your home’s sump pump is what keeps flood water at bay, cleaning your sump pump regularly and ensuring it functions properly can go a long way in protecting your home from expensive and sometimes irreversible water damage.
That’s why we have created this step-by-step guide on how to clean a sump pump covering everything from preparation to testing and after cleaning.
Why Cleaning Your Sump Pump Matters
Neglecting your sump pump can lead to blockages, reduced efficiency, and even complete failure, resulting in flooding.
Regular cleaning can extend the life of your sump pump, prevent bacteria and debris build-up in the sump pit, and avoid unexpected failures.
In Nova Scotia, where heavy rains and extreme coastal weather are all too common, a well-maintained sump pump can be the difference between a dry basement and costly emergency water damage repairs.
Overview of the Cleaning Process
So, how do you clean a sump pump?
While it isn’t the most glamorous chore in the world, cleaning a sump pump is essential and it helps if you have a checklist like the one below.
Gather the necessary tools and disconnect the power.
Carefully remove the sump pump and take it out of the pit.
Clean individual components like the inlet screen, discharge lines, and check valve.
Assemble everything back together and ensure it works.
How to Clean a Sump Pump – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preparation
Before you begin cleaning you must unplug the sump pump or shut off the power at the circuit breaker.
You also need to ensure it isn’t raining outside and that no appliances drain water into the sump pit.
You must also gather all the tools you need. This includes:
- A large bucket
- A pair of gloves
- Tarp or plastic sheeting
- Mild detergent or vinegar
- A scrub brush
- A garden hose
- Wet/dry vacuum
Step 2: Remove the Sump Pump
If you have a submersible sump pump, access the sump pit and loosen the pipe clamp underneath the check valve.
Now carefully lift the pump out of the sump pit.
Wrap the bottom of the pump with a plastic sheet or tarp to avoid dripping.
Also, avoid yanking on the discharge line or consider disconnecting it altogether.
Step 3: Clean the Sump Pump
It is now time to clean!
Start by spraying down the pump with a hose. Rinse off as much debris and dirt as you can manage and then let water flow through the pump to ensure it isn’t clogged.
It is common for the inlet screen inside the pump to clog as well. This can reduce water flow and make the pump work harder.
To clean the inlet screen and the rest of the pump you can use a scrub brush and mild detergent or vinegar. This helps get rid of stubborn stuck-on debris that won’t come off with just water.
Now, rinse the pump thoroughly again to ensure all remaining residue is washed away.
Step 4: Clear the Discharge Lines
It is also a good idea to check the discharge lines for debris or sediment.
A clogged discharge line can result in your sump pump constantly running and can even result in flooding.
To prevent this simply flush the lines with a hose to ensure they’re clear.
Step 5: Inspect and Clean the Check Valve
The check valve is an important component of a sump pump as it stops water from flowing back into the pit.
However, with time, the check valve collects debris and water which needs to be drained.
To do this, simply place a bucket underneath the check valve. Now remove the valve and give it a good rinse while checking for any signs of wear or damage.
Step 6: Check and Adjust the Float Switch
Another important component of a sump pump is the float switch.
The float switch is what triggers the pump to start or stop when water reaches a certain level.
Float switches can be notorious for getting stuck due to gunk and debris buildup in the sump pit. This can cause your pump to work continuously or not work at all.
Always check to make sure the float switch moves freely.
Step 7: Clean the Sump Pit
After cleaning all the major components it is time to focus on the sump pit itself. Start by scooping out any sediment, gravel, or debris at the bottom of the pit. You can do this using a wet/dry vacuum or dry towels.
Don’t use any harsh chemicals while cleaning as that could damage the pump.
Step 8: Reassemble and Test
Now that your sump pump and sump pit are looking pristine again it is time to put everything back together.
Reconnect the discharge line and gently place the pump back into place, ensuring all components are secure.
To test if everything works, plug it in and turn on the power.
Now pour water into the pit until it triggers the float switch. This should activate the pump. Your cleaning process is now complete!
FAQ Section
Q1: How often should I clean my sump pump?
Ideally, twice a year. But at the very least you should clean your sump pump at least once a year preferably before spring which is the season in which Nova Scotia gets the most rain. You should clean your pump even more frequently if your home is in a high-debris area or sees frequent flooding.
Q2) What are the signs that my sump pump needs cleaning?
You shouldn’t wait for signs that tell you your sump pump needs cleaning as you should be doing it preemptively. However, unusual noises, reduced water flow, or visible debris on the pump or in the pit are tell-tale signs that your sump pump requires a thorough cleaning.
Q3) Can I use household cleaners for my sump pump?
Yes, but it is best to stick to mild detergents or vinegar to avoid damaging the pump’s components.
Summary
Regularly cleaning your sump pump by following the above steps not only extends your sump pump’s lifespan but also avoids expensive repairs and water damage down the road.
At Mechanical Flood Protection, we’re proud to serve communities across Nova Scotia and are the trusted name for comprehensive flood protection.
Whether it’s sump pump cleaning, installation, or repairs, our team is committed to keeping your basement dry and your mind at ease.
Contact us today for expert advice and service tailored to your home’s needs.