Falling snow can transform even the most unsightly street into a winter wonderland. Unfortunately, once that snow has accumulated on the ground and begins to melt, it can quickly become a flooding hazard. If your home doesn’t have a sump pump and you live in a region prone to heavy snowfall, melting snow can potentially result in water damage to your Bloomington home.
When it comes to snow, sump pumps can help you avoid a problem when this snow melts by efficiently pumping any water out of your basement. Before the first snow, sump pumps should be inspected to ensure they work properly.
We’ll discuss how to test your sump pump to make sure it can handle melting snow. Plus, we’ll go over additional steps you can take to prevent snow-related water damage and when to call a plumber in Bloomington, IL.
Types of Sump Pumps
When it rains or the snow melts, this water saturates the ground, causing the water table to rise above the level of your basement floor. This leads water to flow into your basement, potentially resulting in significant damage to your belongings.
If you’re looking to combat the destructive effects of melting snow, sump pumps are excellent solutions. However, it’s essential to know which type is best for you before you install one.
- Pedestal Sump Pumps: This is an upright pump that includes an impeller at the pedestal’s base. These sump pumps are fairly easy to access and last 25-30 years.
- Submersible Sump Pumps: This sump pump is submerged in a sump pit when installed. These sump pumps are powerful with high-powered motors; they typically last up to 10 years.
- Battery Backup Sump Pumps: If you experience a power outage, backup sump pumps can work in place of your primary pump. Backup systems can also be used to assist your primary sump pump system when necessary.
How to Test Your Sump Pump
If you want to combat melting snow, sump pump tests can be performed to ensure that your system is ready to handle excessive amounts of water flooding your basement. Follow these three steps to test your sump pump:
#1: Inspect the Outside Pipe
Your sump pump’s outside pipe collects any water that is drained from your pump. However, this pipe can get clogged with dirt and other debris. Check the outside pipe for any obstructions to make sure it’s clog-free.
#2: Add Water Into the Sump Pit
Fill a large pot or a bucket (about five gallons) with water. Next, slowly pour this bucket of water into the sump pit. Check the water level within the sump pit; carefully watch that the float on the sump rises and that the pump starts up before the water touches the pit’s top. This will ensure that the system is working correctly.
#3: Make Final Observations
Did the float rise as it was supposed to? Did the sump pump automatically shut off after the water drained? Call a Springfield plumbing professional for assistance if the pump’s float doesn’t rise or another problem occurs. It’s essential to schedule sump pump repairs before you encounter melting snow.
Additional Tips to Prevent Water Damage
When it comes to snow, sump pumps aren’t the only way you can prevent water damage in your home. Here are some additional tips to help you avoid a wintry disaster:
- Install a sump pump check valve. Check valves are essential because they prevent the pump’s discharge line from emptying water back into the pit.
- Check your gutters. Your gutter downspouts should be aimed away from your home. Make sure your gutters don’t run into the ground around your foundation.
- Shovel snow. Shovel away any snow that’s built up against your house. When this snow melts, it will likely end up right in your basement.
When to Call a Professional
Is your region prone to snow? Consider installing a sump pump in your basement or crawlspace as a preventative measure against water damage. However, if your sump pump experiences a malfunction or failure, get in touch with an experienced plumber in Champaign, IL.
When you have a properly-functioning sump pump, melting snow and heavy rains are of no concern for your home. However, it’s crucial to get in touch with the plumbers at Mike Williams to ensure your system is in peak condition. Contact our expert plumbers in Springfield, IL, and the surrounding areas, for sump pump services to protect your home!