5 Tips For Kitchen Sump Pump Cleaning And Maintenance

A sump pump is an integral part of your home’s water management system. In most cases, the device works in the background without causing noise or inconvenience to the homeowner. Some of these machines do not run for months due to the low groundwater.

A kitchen sink sump pump is designed to be submerged in the water and activate automatically as soon as the water level in the pump crosses a certain height. It turns off once the water level is back to normal.

If your house has one, knowing how it operates and the level of maintenance it needs will keep the device in optimal condition. Here are some sump pump maintenance tips you should try.

Understand Your Sump Pump’s Functions

Knowing the product’s components and functionalities will help you understand how it works and how often it needs maintenance. There’s no extensive research required. The basic details, like the pump’s age, where you can collect its replacement parts, and the common issues, will do. You can refer to the manual to understand the components of a newly installed machine.

Monitor The Sump Pump Periodically

Your basement can flood anytime and without warning. So, it makes sense to check the motor and the machine periodically to check if it’s in good condition. You need to check two things—the machine must be connected to the electric outlet, and it must direct water to the pit. Checking it once or twice a month will help you discover problems with your sump pump before the machine causes serious damage.

Watch Out For Unusual Signs

If you hear any unusual noises or face difficulty turning the pump on or off, these are the signs your sump pump has failed and require immediate repair or replacement. The weird noise signifies worn-out components that require repair or replacement.

For instance, if the motor vibrates frequently, the impeller must have deformed. If there’s an oil leak, the machine might be internally damaged and fail if the issue isn’t addressed. If it’s turning on and off frequently, the internal wiring must be a problem.

Deep Clean It Periodically

A kitchen sink sump pump protects your kitchen, basement, and home structure. It requires regular cleaning and deep cleaning once in a while. Cleaning keeps your machine in tip-top condition and maximizes its efficiency. Here’s what to do when cleaning it. Rubbing alcohol is the best way to clean electrical components featuring plastic and ABS pipes. This makes it perfect for the sump pump too.

Turn the machine off alongside all devices that might pour the water into the pit.
Wash the pump thoroughly with a garden hose until the dirt and debris are removed. Use a plastic scraper for solid, stubborn debris that won’t come off quickly.
Let it dry naturally, and then reconnect it to the discharge pipes. Once it’s dried and ready to be used, you can attach it to the power outlet and turn it on.

You can also hire professional cleaners to give your kitchen sump pump a good wash.

Cover It Well

The sump pump must be covered at all times. A robust covering will prevent the dust and debris from entering the sump pit and clogging it. Ideally, your sump pit should have holes big enough for the wires, drainage pipes, and a stand to fit.

A covered sump pump doesn’t mean the pump doesn’t need cleaning anymore. However, a covering prevents the debris from settling on the surface of the pipes, thus requiring far less cleaning than usualConclusion

Most sump pumps last seven years, but regular care and maintenance can extend their lifespan. Check your sump pump periodically and report any problem to the manufacturer immediately before it becomes a severe issue. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep the machine in good condition.