Plumbers in Guelph, ON, discuss sump pumps and provide tips on how to ensure they function correctly.
Guelph, Canada - April 25, 2025 / Lodder Brothers Limited /
Prepare Sump Pumps to Be Ready for When They Are Needed
During the wet and rainy conditions and snowmelt of the spring months in Ontario, it’s important for homes to be protected against flooding and water damage. One effective way to avoid flooding and its costly damages is with a sump pump installation. However, it is crucial to periodically check the sump pump’s condition to ensure it is working correctly and ready to protect the home when needed. This blog post will discuss how sump pumps work, testing and maintaining them to check they are operational, and the importance of installing a backup.
How Do Sump Pumps Work?
Sump pumps protect homes against basement flooding, water damage, and mold growth when causes of flooding occur, such as spring thaws and heavy rainfall. Sump pumps detect and remove water that collects in a sump pit or sump pump basin, typically located in the basement or the lowest part of the home.
Once water reaches a certain level in the pit, the sump pump's float switch activates, which automatically triggers the pump's motor to turn on and force water out of the pit and safely away from the home through a discharge pipe. Because of their automatic activation when water reaches a predetermined level in the basin, sump pumps are able to protect the house whether people are home or not.
Testing and Maintaining the Sump Pump for Optimal Performance
Regularly testing and maintaining a sump pump before it’s needed can ensure its proper operation and prevent basement flooding and costly water damage. To test a sump pump, start by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit, stopping when the float switch activates the pump. The float should rise and trigger the pump automatically. Watch and verify that the water gets removed properly without obstructions, and listen for unusual noises that might indicate mechanical problems. Once complete, the sump pump should turn off automatically as well. If any issues are noticed while testing, call for sump pump repair to have the problem addressed before the sump pump is needed.
Professional sump pump maintenance is also crucial to keep it running correctly and catch any problems. During maintenance, a plumber will inspect the sump pump system, ensuring that everything is functioning correctly and addressing any issues before they lead to sump pump failure. It is recommended to schedule professional maintenance annually to maximize the sump pump's lifespan and protect the home from unexpected water intrusion. Regular testing and maintenance ensure the system remains operational and is ready when flooding threatens a home.
Why a Backup Sump Pump Is Essential for Complete Flood Protection
There are situations where the primary sump pump may not be able to protect the home when it is needed, such as when the primary sump pump malfunctions and fails, becomes overwhelmed by the amount of water coming into the home, or loses power during a power outage. This is where a sump pump backup comes in.
The backup or secondary sump pump will take over protection of the home during mechanical failures, failure to handle increased water volume, or power outages that often coincide with severe weather events, which can cause flooding. This helps prevent these situations from leading to flooding and water damage.
Some popular sump pump backup options include a battery-powered backup sump pump and a water-powered sump pump backup. They can automatically take over when the home’s power or the primary sump pump fails, providing continuous protection without the need for power. Having a proper backup system in place adds another layer of protection, giving homeowners peace of mind.
About Lodder Brothers Limited
Lodder Brothers Limited is a residential and commercial plumbing company that has been serving the Guelph area since 1975. They provide flat-rate pricing, comprehensive solutions, and speed and accuracy. Call them for sump pump installation and repair services in Guelph, ON.
Contact Information:
Lodder Brothers Limited
500 Maltby Rd E Unit #1
Guelph, ON N1L 1G4
Canada
Dan Bernard
+1 519-836-6370
https://www.lodderbrothers.com/
