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A sump pump is an essential component of the household where ground water or flooding is an issue. Regardless of the source of flooding the sump pump prevents it by removing water from a home’s basement, or in the crawlspace. Unfortunately, it’s easy for the homeowner to overlook maintenance of the sump pump, until the signs of flooding occur. The sump pump is as vulnerable to age and wear as any other mechanical item, and to ensure flooding and the potential damage related to it, it’s essential to routinely provide maintenance and check on the sump pump. Eventually, you will require sump pump replacement. Contact a Benjamin Franklin plumber in Fort Worth for reliable plumbing services.

Avoiding a Flood

Flooding is one of the costliest disasters that can hit a home. Standing water ruins wood, can lead to rotting of the home’s structure, and damage to the foundation. Floodwaters may carry disease-causing pathogens, and even when the water is removed quickly, there is the potential for mold, and mildew developing.

That’s why homes with a flooding issue should always contain a functional sump pump. The pumps maintain a dry home by pumping water out of the sump pit. A Benjamin Franklin plumber in Fort Worth can provide the installation, repair, or replacement you need.

Tips to Avoid a Sump Pump Emergency

• Become familiar with the sound of the sump pump during operation. When the sound of the motor changes significantly, it could be a sign of a developing problem.
• Routinely check the sump pump and its pit. When water is present and the pump isn’t operating, contact a plumber in Fort Worth for sump pump service.
• Routinely test the sump pump by pouring an adequate amount of water into the pit. If the pump doesn’t pump the water away, check to ensure it is plugged in, and check the breaker in the home’s electrical panel for a tripped breaker. Otherwise, contact a Benjamin Franklin plumber in Fort Worth for sump pump repair or replacement.
• It is strongly recommended that you have a battery backup sump pump. It will take over if the primary pump fails for any reason, and can assist the primary pump during unusually heavy flooding.

However, in order to ensure the proper size and sump pump installation, you need the expertise of a licensed plumber in Fort Worth.

Selecting a Sump Pump

The two most common types of sump pump are the pedestal, and the submersible sump pump. The pedestal sump pump sits above the sump pit, and provides easy access for servicing. This type of pump is often used in unfinished basements.

A submersible sump pump is completely submersed in the sump pit, enabling it to be sealed with a cover. Submersion provides quieter operation, and keeps it out of sight. It’s commonly selected for finished basements, and for those who don’t want the risks of injury from an open pit.

Sump Pump Maintenance

The recommended maintenance schedule is every three months, consult the owner’s manual for complete details:

1. Clean the pump inlet screen every 3 months to prevent damage to the motor from clogging debris.
2. Routinely ensure the primary pump is plugged in, especially before heavy rains are expected.
3. Every three months, and before storms are anticipated, pour a bucket of water into the pit, enough to raise the float to ensure its operation when you need it.
4. Clean and inspect the pump and its pit annually or biannually of debris that can damage the pump. Contact a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing plumber in Fort Worth for sump pump repair.

A Benjamin Franklin Plumbing plumber in Fort Worth can provide the professional sump pump replacement, installation, repair, maintenance and other plumbing services you need. We serve Fort Worth, Arlington, and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.