| Dealing with a clogged sump pump may be the last | | | | the pump. This should be done multiple times to |
| thing on homeowners' minds when they first install | | | | make sure the pump really is working at capacity. |
| their pump. But, clogged sump pumps are a reality | | | | Checking the float mechanism on the pump should be |
| that needs to be considered. There are a number of | | | | done on a quarterly basis. Sometimes a clog can |
| reasons why the pump can become clogged. | | | | occur by the float and this will keep the pump from |
| The pump's screen and drain pipe is often the culprit | | | | working. The float is the device that senses the |
| of many sump pump clogs. As a home prevention for | | | | presence of water and causes the pump to kick on. |
| clogs a little white vinegar can be poured through the | | | | Gravel, sand, dirt, and even tree root pieces can clog |
| pump to try to filter out small debris in these areas. | | | | up the pump. If a clog is especially bad it may be |
| If the clog is bigger than anticipated professional help | | | | necessary to call for assistance from a professional |
| may be required. Sometimes all the pump professional | | | | to have a camera snaked through the drain line to |
| has to do is clean out the pump and clogs are easily | | | | see where the clog is. There is usually and alarm-like |
| remedied. | | | | system the professional will use to determine exactly |
| Also, after a downpour or every so many months, | | | | where the clog exists then it can be removed. The |
| homeowners need to check pumps for dirt and silt. A | | | | professional will have the appropriate tools necessary |
| good standard is to check the pump on a yearly | | | | to remove the clog, which may be rather large if a |
| basis to make sure it is functioning at an optimal level. | | | | homeowner is unable to remove it themselves. |
| Water needs to be placed into the drain portion of | | | | |