Spring flooding have you worried? Test your sump pump to prevent water damage!

With spring right around the corner for Wisconsin residents, those of us in Madison and Milwaukee are prepping for melting snow and heavy rain. The chance for flooding can increase in the upcoming months. It’s important to test your sump pump now, before it doesn’t do its job!

What is a Sump Pump?

Many homes are already equipped with a sump pump. This common appliance keeps groundwater from finding its way into your basement. Instead, a sump pump will take the excess water and move it away from the foundation of the home. If a sump pump stops working, the water has nowhere to go. Instead, water begins to pool against the foundation, eventually creeping into your basement.

Where there is standing water, there is mold. This can lead to structural problems and even health problems for family members.

How to Test Your Sump Pump

To prevent any water or mold damage to your home, test your sump pump in early spring and periodically throughout the summer.

There are two different ways to make sure your sump pump is working correctly.

First, simply unplug and plug the sump pump back in. The sump pump outlet will have two different plugs – unplug both, but only plug back in the one for the pump itself.

• If the sump pump doesn’t turn on right away, it is a sign that something is not working correctly and that the pump needs to be repaired or replaced. Call a plumber immediately to have the sump pump assessed.
• If the sump pump does start when you plug it back in, everything is fine! Remember to plug in the other plug and you’re good to go.

The second way to test your sump pump is to run water through it and ensure it pulls the water from your home. Pour a bucket of water into the pit of the sump pump. You only need enough to raise the float of the pump, which will cause it to kick on and begin the process of removing the water. If the pump begins to work, it is important to verify that the water is actually being pumped outside of the hole.

• When you verify this, you’ve completed the test! Your sump pump is working properly.

Recovering from Water Damage

Even after testing your sump pump, problems may occur and water damage may find its way into your home. At A&J Property  Restoration, we not only remove the water, but will also check for any mold issues while we work.

Our specialists will get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. We handle everything from damage assessment, water removal, and even reconstruction services. Call us today for more information.