Essential Sump Pump Tips for a Flood Free Home

A sump pump is a critical part of flood prevention in many homes. A pit or sump pit is typically located in the basement or crawl space. This sump pit is tied to perforated drain tile that runs around the perimeter of the foundation's footing. As water collects around the foundation, the water in the drain tile finds its way into the sump pit. A pump in the pit called a sump pump will pump the water out of the pit through a pipe above ground and away from the building. The sump pump helps keep water out and manage moisture throughout the home. While lifespan can vary, they typically last about 10 years.
 

Here are 8 sump pump tips:
 

1. Have your sump pump on a dedicated circuit so there is no chance of another device tripping the circuit breaker, leaving the pump without power.
2. Install a battery backup to help ensure continuous power to the pump when power loss occurs in a storm.
3. Test the sump pump by removing the lid and slowly pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. Notice when the pump begins to discharge and when it shuts off. Call a licensed plumber if the pump is making noise or not discharging properly. If water runs back into the sump pit through the discharge pipe once the pump shuts off, the backflow valve in the discharge pipe has likely failed. You can test the battery backup system by turning off the circuit breaker at the panel.
4. Ensure the sump pit is clean of sand, rocks, and dirt. This can be easily done by removing the lid and looking inside with a flashlight. The water inlet for the pump is at the base and debris can restrict the water flow to the pump. This inlet has a screen and may need to be cleaned over time.
5. Refer to manufacturer recommendations for float switch replacement. This is the most common part of the sump pump that fails.
6. Check that the water discharges far from the foundation and drains away from the home.
7. Have a backup generator, whether permanent or portable, for an additional layer of protection if the power or a battery backup system fails.
8. Keep water away from the foundation. This will help preserve the sump pump motor by not having it work as hard. Most homes in wet climate regions should have gutters with extended downspouts to divert rainwater from the roof far from the foundation. Any window wells around foundation windows should have covers. Generous overhangs will help keep water off the exterior walls as well.

Investing in a high-quality sump pump and staying proactive about maintenance can help safeguard your property and provide peace of mind. Reviewing and updating your home insurance to include coverage for sump pump failures and related water damage can offer further financial protection.

Standard Homeowners Policies have exclusions for loss caused by “water which backs up through sewers or drains; or overflows or is otherwise discharged from a sump, sump pump or related equipment.”

It is important for homeowners to buy an endorsement to cover these water-related losses. Limits of $5,000 or $10,000 are most popular. If the owner has a finished basement, higher limits may be needed. Look for a broad endorsement that covers home and personal property damage. Some insurers offer limited coverage that excludes personal property. Ask your independent insurance agent about endorsements that can cover water-related losses not included in standard policies.