Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your System Running

Published 2026-02-22

A sump pump that's been properly maintained is far more likely to perform when you need it most. Yet many homeowners install a sump pump and forget about it until something goes wrong — often discovering the failure when water is already flooding their basement. Regular maintenance is simple, takes minimal time, and can extend your pump's lifespan significantly while ensuring it's ready to protect your property at a moment's notice.

Monthly Checks

Once a month, take a few minutes to verify your sump pump is operational. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and confirm that the pump activates when the water reaches the float switch level, runs smoothly without unusual noises, pumps the water out quickly, and shuts off automatically when the water level drops. This simple test takes less than five minutes and gives you confidence that your pump will work when called upon. If anything seems off — slow pumping, strange noises, failure to activate or shut off — call Pump Professionals at (317) 674-3853 for a professional evaluation.

Quarterly Maintenance

Every three months, perform a more thorough inspection. Clean the sump pit by removing any debris, gravel, or sediment that has accumulated — this material can clog the pump inlet or interfere with the float switch. Inspect the float switch for freedom of movement, ensuring nothing is preventing it from rising and falling properly. Check the discharge pipe and any outdoor discharge points for obstructions, ice (in winter), or damage. Test the check valve by listening for water flowing back into the pit after the pump shuts off — a failing check valve causes the pump to cycle excessively.

Semi-Annual Deep Maintenance

Twice a year — ideally before the rainy season and again mid-season — perform comprehensive maintenance. Remove the pump from the pit and clean the inlet screen, removing any accumulated debris. Inspect the power cord for damage, wear, or corrosion. Verify that the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet is functioning properly by testing the reset/trip mechanism. If you have a battery backup system, test it by unplugging the primary pump and verifying that the backup activates automatically. Check the battery charge level and connections. SPI monitoring systems can provide automated alerts for many of these conditions.

Annual Professional Inspection

Once a year, have a professional technician perform a thorough inspection of your entire sump pump system. A professional inspection includes motor amp draw testing to detect internal wear, impeller inspection for damage or wear, float switch calibration, check valve testing and replacement if needed, discharge line inspection, battery backup system testing and battery assessment, pit condition evaluation, and overall system performance benchmarking.

Pump Professionals offers annual maintenance programs that cover all of these items, giving you documented system health and professional assurance that your pump is ready for whatever comes.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring: Test thoroughly before spring rains begin. Clear any debris from outdoor discharge points. Verify the pit is clean and the pump is operating efficiently. Summer: Monitor for increased groundwater during heavy thunderstorms. Check for any settling around the discharge pipe exterior. Fall: Prepare for winter by insulating exposed discharge pipes. Clear leaves and debris from outdoor discharge areas. Winter: Ensure discharge lines aren't frozen. Consider heat tape for exposed outdoor sections. Test the battery backup more frequently during storm season.

When to Call a Professional

While homeowners can handle basic maintenance, certain situations call for professional service: unusual noises that persist after cleaning, frequent cycling that doesn't resolve with float switch adjustment, visible rust or corrosion on the pump body, water in the basement despite the pump running, a pump that's more than 7 years old, or any time you're unsure about your system's condition.

Source: Pump Professionals — sump pump maintenance and service. Visit our pump blog for more maintenance tips.

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