If you’ve ever experienced a flooded basement, you know just how important your sump pump really is. It’s one of the few household systems that quietly does its job in the background—until the day it doesn’t. For Central Ohio homeowners in communities like New Albany, Powell, or Grove City, where storms and seasonal thawing are common, keeping your sump pump in top shape is a must. A sump pump system check is a preventative service that can help avoid the stress, mess, and expense of water damage.
What a Sump Pump System Check Includes
A sump pump system check is more than just flipping a switch to see if the unit turns on. A licensed plumber will inspect all of the critical components that ensure your system activates when needed, drains water effectively, and doesn’t put your home at risk during a storm or power outage.
They’ll begin by testing the mechanical function of the pump itself, usually by filling the pit with water and observing the pump’s cycle. The float switch must rise and fall properly without obstruction. If the float sticks, the pump may fail to activate—leaving you with inches of water in your basement during a heavy rain. Technicians also check the check valve, which stops water from backflowing into the pit after pumping, and will clear any visible debris from the discharge pipe.
One of the most overlooked areas is the condition of the pit. A sump pump can’t operate efficiently if the basin is clogged with sediment or debris. Your plumber will assess whether cleaning the sump pump pit is necessary and may recommend routine flushing if buildup is excessive.
When to Schedule Your System Check
The best time to schedule a sump pump inspection is before problems start—particularly in late winter or early spring when snowmelt and rain become more frequent. We also recommend scheduling a check:
- Before extended travel, to ensure your system will run properly while you're away.
- After major home renovations that might impact drainage, such as basement remodeling or new landscaping.
- Annually, as part of your overall home plumbing maintenance routine.
Homeowners in Upper Arlington and Bexley have shared stories of sump pump failure right before a big vacation or during a holiday storm. In nearly every case, a preventative inspection could have made all the difference.
Signs Your Sump Pump May Need Attention
While routine checks are important, there are also warning signs that your system may need professional help. If your pump is making unusual noises—like grinding or rattling—that’s often a sign the impeller is damaged or there’s debris in the pit. A pump that cycles on and off too frequently could mean the float switch is getting stuck or the basin isn’t sized properly. And if you’ve noticed musty odors or dampness in the basement, your pump may not be clearing water fast enough.
Ignoring these issues can lead to bigger problems. One Columbus homeowner called us after their basement carpet began to show dark spots during heavy rain. Turns out their sump pump was running, but the discharge line was clogged, causing water to back up slowly and silently. A quick sump pump system check identified and resolved the problem before it caused structural damage.
Tips to Extend Your System’s Lifespan
While we always recommend a professional inspection once a year, there are a few things you can do as a homeowner to keep your sump pump in working order between visits. Here are two simple maintenance tips you can manage on your own:
- Check the pit periodically to remove leaves, silt, or gravel that can clog the intake. A quick visual check every couple of months can prevent long-term damage.
- Test the float switch quarterly by pouring a bucket of water into the pit. Watch to see that the pump activates and drains the water completely without short-cycling.
If you have a battery backup system installed, it is crucial to regularly monitor the battery’s charge to ensure it is functioning optimally. This involves checking the charge level periodically to confirm that it is fully charged and ready to activate in the event of a power outage.
Additionally, it is advisable to replace the battery every 2–3 years, as recommended by the manufacturer, to maintain its reliability and effectiveness. This proactive approach helps prevent unexpected failures and ensures that your sump pump system remains operational during critical times, providing peace of mind and safeguarding your home from potential water damage.
Why Partner with a Professional
A sump pump might seem like a plug-and-play appliance, but ensuring it works at the right time takes expert care. If you’re considering sump pump replacement or are curious about upgrading to a more efficient model, a sump pump system check is the best place to start. A professional plumber can also advise on upgrades such as water-powered backup pumps, advanced alarms, and smart sensors for added peace of mind.
At Crawford Mechanical Services, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Central Ohio stay dry year-round with expert sump pump inspections and repairs. Whether your system is five years old or freshly installed, we’ll make sure it’s working as intended and provide recommendations tailored to your home’s layout and risk factors.
Don’t wait for the next downpour to find out if your sump pump is ready. Contact Crawford Mechanical Services today to schedule your sump pump system check and protect your basement from costly water damage.
