Are you ready for the big melt? A sump pump checklist

February 22, 2021 / Larry Howald

If you find yourself with a sump pump emergency in the next few days, we’re here 24-7 to serve you.
Call 317-255-4328.

We survived the snow last week. Hope you did, too!
Now let’s prep for the BIG MELT. Temps are rising this week. Is your sump pump ready?

Use this checklist.

  1. Frozen lines: be sure your sump lines didn’t freeze in recent weeks. If they did, they should thaw as the temps rise the next few days.
  2. The pit: Remove the lid from the sump. Slowly pour some water from a bucket into the pit. Look at the sump pump switch. It should turn on and begin to pump water. Wait until the water pumps from the pit to ensure the pump turns itself off, then slowly pour the remaining water in the crock to ensure the pump turns on again.
  3. The alarm: Make sure your high-water float alarm is working. If you don’t have one, consider adding it. Test the arm by picking up the float and listen for the alarm.
  4. The discharge line: Make sure the discharge line is unclogged and pitched away from the home. Make sure it’s clear of any debris—dirt or leaves from the snow that could have packed it up.
  5. Battery backup: If you don’t have an alarm at all—you won’t know until the basement floods. A battery backup is the best bet if power fails.

REMEMBER: If the sump pump alarm goes off—it’s an emergency,
your sump pump is failing. Call for emergency service.