Spring check
- Lift the cover and check the pit for silt or junk.
- Fill a bucket and tip it gently into the pit.
- The float should lift and kick the motor on.
- Confirm the pump empties the pit and switches off.
- Go outside and check water is leaving the discharge pipe.
Fall check
- Make sure the discharge line is clear of leaves.
- Disconnect any garden hose extension so it cannot freeze.
- Test the pump again before winter.
Power backup: Storms and power cuts often come together. A battery backup pump or a high-water alarm adds peace of mind.
Warning signs
- Humming without pumping
- Running when the pit is dry
- Unusual noise or vibration
- Rust or corrosion on the pump
Where the water should go
Let it out on your own ground, well clear of the walls, and keep it out of the sewer.
Write the install date on the pump's discharge pipe with a marker, and keep the manual in a bag near the pit. When the pump eventually needs replacing, knowing its age and model saves time. In Scarborough's lower-lying streets, many owners also keep a spare pump on a shelf so a failure during a storm can be handled the same night.
Need help?
Book sump pump repair or a new installation.