Winter and the cold climate in Western New York can be a treat. Snow angels, snowball fights, getting cozy by the fire, etc. Unfortunately, Western New York winters are not all fun and games. Other times, it can be destructive and devastating, especially to your sump pump.
But why care so much about sump pumps? What is it, and what do they do?
Western New York Snowstorms Threat to Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are usually installed in the lowest point of your basement or crawlspace. We all know that the basement is the most susceptible to moisture damage, thanks to its location.
Whether it’s from flooding or excess moisture, the basement is the perfect place for mildew and mold growth. But with sump pumps, they keep your basement flood-free and dry, making it difficult for mold and mildew to thrive.
Even though they’re mostly one of the most overlooked fixtures in your home, they play an important role. Their function is to remove excess water caused by groundwater, heavy rain, or snowmelt. Snowmelt is just one of the few things snowstorms cause that can damage your sump pumps. Not to mention the other problems with your sump pump, such as:
- Increase water volume
- Clogged drains
- Frozen discharge pipes
- Power outages
Pre-Snowstorm Sump Pump Preps
Before chaos ensues, inspect your sump pump to prepare it for the upcoming storm–we mean that literally and figuratively. Here are some of the tips you need to keep in mind to prep your sump pumps before the storm:
- Check and inspect. Check and inspect your sump pump components, and see if it has any loose or worn parts that need to be repaired or replaced
- Test, test, test. Test your sump pump to see if it’s working properly. Plug it in. As it runs, watch and listen for unusual noises like rattling or gurgling
- Clean and clear. Make sure your sump pump is free from debris, such as leaves or twigs. We can’t have anything clogging and hindering it from doing its job
- Secure battery backups. If you have an electric sump pump, then it is best to secure backup batteries for it. Snowstorms tend to cause power outages, which not only stop your sump pump from working but also have the chance to damage it
- Top up (if the sump pump is gas-powered). You don’t want your sump pump to die out on you during the storm and leave your basement flooded afterward. Best to keep your sump pump battle-ready for the storm to come and go with a full fuel tank
Post-Snowstorm Sump Pump Measures
The storm finally subsided, and your sump pump survived the onslaught…but did it really? Even after the storm has passed, your job of making sure your sump pump made it is not done. Here’s a checklist of what to do while taking post-snowstorm sump pump measures:
- Monitor water levels. Keep a close eye on your sump pump pit’s water level. If it’s rising faster than you’d like, then it’s time to call some help by contacting a plumbing service near you
- Be careful with shoveling snow. When shoveling snow, make sure to avoid piling it up around your sump pump or vent pipe. Once the snow melts, it can easily overwhelm your sump pump and cause overflow
- Clean up and then celebrate. Once you’ve checked your sump pump and everything’s in order or issues are solved, give yourself and your sump pump a pat on the back for a job well done. Clean any debris around it and call it a successful day
Enlisting Professional & Winter-Ready Assistance
DIYs are a great way to solve your sump pump problem by yourself quickly for free. However, there will be problems where DIY methods won’t be enough. This is where contacting professionals like Cellino Plumbing, Heating & Cooling comes in.
Why enlist a professional’s help? Here’s why:
- Trained and experienced professionals. More often than not, professionals can just take one look at your sump pump and immediately know the problem and the solution
- Achieve peace of mind. You can rest easy and not worry about anything going wrong, knowing your sump pump is in reliable hands
- 24/7 emergency services. Whether it’s in the middle of the night or early morning and your pipes choose to cause chaos, you can have the professionals deal with them while you gather your bearings
In Summary
Let’s stop overlooking the importance of sump pumps and give them the TLC they deserve. They have been working hard to keep our basements dry and mold-free. It’s our turn to reward them for their valiant efforts, especially before, during, and after the brutal snowstorms in Western New York.
Remember:
- Do a regular sump pump maintenance check at least once a month
- Don’t underestimate the power of preparing before the storm
- Don’t hesitate to enlist help from professionals
Don’t let the snowstorm worry you and ruin your cozy time by the fire with your hot cocoa. Be confident your sump pump can make it for another season.
Invest in a sump pump service to prepare for the snowstorms, and call Cellino Plumbing for same-day appointments!
