Menu
09/Aug/2025

Your sump pump doesn’t demand constant attention. It doesn’t make a big fuss. But when the rain pours and water starts creeping toward your foundation, it jumps to protect your home from costly flooding and water damage. Well, it doesn't jump - it should stay tight in one location.

blogdetail

Latest Blog Posts

blogdetail1 Nov 01, 2025
Copper vs. PEX vs. PVC: Which Pipes Are Best for Repiping?

For most people, the plumbing pipes are out of sight and out of mind. Predominantly buried underground or behind the walls and ceiling, these conduits work silently around the clock…

Read More
blogdetail1 Oct 25, 2025
DIY Leak Detection: What Works and What Doesn’t

Most people don’t think twice about their plumbing system, and leaks have a way of showing up when you least expect them. A slow drip behind the wall or a…

Read More

Speaking of which, a professional sump pump installation sets the stage for years of protection. But here’s the truth: even the best installation won’t keep your pump running forever. Like any hardworking piece of equipment, it needs maintenance to keep it in top form. Think of it like a car. You wouldn’t drive it for ten years without an oil change and expect it to run perfectly.

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we walk through some simple and practical steps to maintain your sump pump and keep it working like a champ. If you'd rather have a trained plumber investigate, then call or message Mr. Rooter to speak with a live representative.

TIP 1: Test Your Pump Regularly

You don’t want to find out your sump pump isn’t working in the middle of a storm. That’s why testing it is so important. It's simple:

  • Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit.
  • Watch to see if the pump turns on and drains the water quickly.

If nothing happens - or it’s sluggish - then you might have an issue. That’s when calling an experienced plumber makes all the difference. A trained eye can figure out if it’s a quick fix or if something bigger is going on.

TIP 2: Keep It Clean

Dirt, gravel, and debris can build up in your sump pit over time. That buildup can clog the pump’s intake and make the motor work harder or even stop altogether.

Every few months, unplug the pump and remove it from the pit (follow the manufacturer’s instructions). Rinse it off, clear away any gunk, and wipe down the inside of the basin.

If you’re not comfortable taking it apart, then call a reputable plumbing company like Mr. Rooter Plumbing to have a local plumber do a thorough cleaning and inspection.

TIP 3: Check the Discharge Line

Your sump pump works by moving water away from your home. If the discharge pipe is clogged, frozen, or damaged, then water will have nowhere to go - and that could mean a flooded basement.

Get in the habit of walking around your property after a heavy rain. Make sure water is flowing freely out of the pipe and draining far away from your foundation. If you spot blockages or leaks, get them fixed right away.

TIP 4: Inspect the Float Switch

The float switch is like the pump’s on/off button. It rises with the water level and tells the pump when to start working. If the switch gets stuck or fails, then your pump might not turn on. Worse, it could run nonstop until it burns out.

Test the switch during your regular water test. If it feels stuck or doesn’t move freely, then it’s time for a closer look. In some cases, this can be solved with a quick adjustment. In others, it’s better to call a plumber for professional plumbing repair service.

TIP 5: Back It Up with Battery Power

Storms and power outages often go hand in hand - and this is exactly when you need your sump pump the most. A battery backup system keeps your pump running even when the lights go out.

This is especially important if your area is prone to heavy storms. When you choose Mr. Rooter for your installation, we can integrate backup power during the same project. Our professionals can also upgrade a backup so you’re never left unprotected.

TIP 6: Schedule a Yearly Professional Check-Up

Even if your pump seems to be running fine, an annual inspection can catch small problems before they turn into big and expensive ones. During an inspection, our professional will check electrical connections, test performance, and make sure every component is in working order.

We give you a price quote upfront and we back our workmanship so that you can rest assured. Still have questions? Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing to speak with a member of our team.

Recent Posts

Nov 01, 2025 Plumbing

Copper vs. PEX vs. PVC: Which Pipes Are Best for Repiping?

For most people, the plumbing pipes are out of sight and out of mind. Predominantly buried underground or behind the walls and ceiling, these conduits work silently around the clock…

Oct 25, 2025 Plumbing

DIY Leak Detection: What Works and What Doesn’t

Most people don’t think twice about their plumbing system, and leaks have a way of showing up when you least expect them. A slow drip behind the wall or a…

Oct 17, 2025 Plumbing

How Weather, Age, and Corrosion Affect Gas Lines

Most homeowners don’t think much about their gas lines, but those pipes are among the most important (and most dangerous) parts of your home’s infrastructure. When solid and sound, they…

Oct 11, 2025

Easy Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Kitchen Sink in Top Shape

The kitchen sink might not get the honor of a new appliance or countertop, but let’s be honest: it keeps the place clean and sanitary. It’s where you rinse fresh…