If you live in Chatham-Kent, or surrounding areas, Sump pump maintenance is critical this time of year. With snowmelt and spring rain, Chatham-Kent homeowners face an increased risk of basement flooding. Your sump pump is your first line of defense but only if it’s working properly.
Don’t wait until your basement is wet to find out your system failed. This guide walks you through common sump pump issues, what to inspect, and how to protect your home before the next rainfall. Learn more about Postma’s plumbing services.
Why Sump Pump Maintenance Matters in Chatham
Sump pumps are often overlooked until they’re needed. In the spring, melting snow and rainfall increase the water table, putting pressure on foundation drains. If your sump pump fails to keep up, your basement could flood in hours.
Spring also brings power outages, which can knock out standard sump pumps unless a backup system is installed. That’s why sump pump failure is one of the leading causes of water damage in homes, especially older homes in Chatham.
According to Health Canada’s flood cleanup guidelines, flooding can also create serious indoor air quality and mould risks if not addressed quickly.
Is Your Basement Ready for Spring?
Wondering how to know if your sump pump is working? If your unit is running nonstop, making strange noises, or hasn’t been serviced in over a year, it’s likely time for a professional checkup. Many homeowners don’t realize they have a failing pump until water starts to rise and by then, it’s too late.
Simple Steps to Keep Water Out
A few spring maintenance tasks can go a long way:
Clear debris from the sump pit.
Test the float switch and discharge line.
Check for clogs or frozen pipes.
Inspect the backup system and battery.
Consider upgrading to a higher-capacity pump if needed.
How often should you maintain your sump pump? At least once per year, ideally in the spring before storms hit. Our licensed plumbers offer full sump pump inspections across Chatham-Kent to ensure your system runs when you need it most.
The ICLR’s sump pump systems guide recommends regular testing and backup systems to prevent failure during storms.
Power Out? Here’s What Keeps Pumps Running
Will your sump pump still work during a power outage? Not unless you have a battery backup. That’s why backup systems are critical during spring storm season; they automatically kick in to protect your basement even if the lights go out.
If your current sump pump doesn’t have a backup or it’s been more than 3 years since the battery was replaced, it’s time to look into an upgrade.
What to Expect From a Spring Plumbing Inspection
A professional sump pump inspection includes:
Testing your pump’s activation and cycle.
Checking for debris and pit obstructions.
Examining the check valve and discharge pipe.
Verifying the battery backup system.
Assessing pump age and capacity for your home.
Postma’s plumbing team can complete this check quickly and give you peace of mind all season long.
Book Your Sump Pump Check Today
📞 519-354-9491
📧 contact@postma.ca
🌐 www.postma.ca
📲 Text us: 226-702-2071