With all the media attention that preceded Hurricane Sandy, most East Coast homeowners put testing their basement sump pumps high on their pre-storm to-do lists. Those who didn’t, and experienced flooding as a result of pump failure, probably wish they had. Identifying a pump problem in advance could spare a homeowner thousands of dollars in water damage. The following is our step-by-step how-to list.

Open the pit that the sump pump sits inside and clear away any debris.

Pour several buckets of water into the pit. This should cause the pump to turn on and run with an even humming sound. If it doesn’t turn on, or you hear a grinding sound, you should make arrangements to have it repaired. Pump Express Service techs are manufacturer trained to repair sump and dewatering pumps of all makes and models.

Check the discharge line for leaks. A leaking line should be replaced as soon as possible.

Those with homes prone to flooding should check sump pumps periodically during a storm and keep an empty bucket or small utility pump nearby in case the primary pump becomes overwhelmed or requires emptying by hand.

Battery back-up pumps are a good form of low-cost insurance against flooding as they will take over if the primary pump breaks down or stops working due to a power failure. Just as a primary sump pump will not run without power, a battery-operated unit will not operate without a battery. So be sure to have a fully charged battery installed.

Browse the sumps pumps, battery back-up pumps and batteries we stock and ship nationally at www.pumpexpress.com or call us for service: 1-800-298-4100