Winter and Sump Pumps: Who will Prevail at Your West Erie County Home?

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

The float is an important part of a sump pump, and it is also one of the most vulnerable to malfunction.

Did you know that your sump pump is more likely to back-up during the winter months more than any other time of year? Keeping a close eye on your sump pump this winter could be the difference between you having a water loss or not. SERVPRO of West Erie County is here to give you some tips of the trade from the #1 water restoration company in the Edinboro area.

Firstly, what does a sump pump actually do for your home? Its primary job is to carry excess water, that is hanging around your home’s foundation, and carry it away from your home, (toward the road) through a pipe system. The reason winter is more prevalent for sub pump back-up is due to freezing conditions.

Why winter? Well. As stated above the sump is connected to a large drainpipe. That drainpipe is below the ground in your yard, heading toward the road. When you live in West Erie County---you know the elements of winter can be harsh. The water flows at a trickle…and when the pipe starts to accumulate ice or even worse, gets completely blocked off with ice, the water has only one place to go. And if you have not guessed it already, it means the water goes right back in your basement, creating a flooding issue.

What can you do about it at your home? If you are concerned about your sump pump at your Erie, PA home---SERVPRO of West Erie County understands more than most. Water damage is the cornerstone of our business, and we are Here to Help®. There are some things you can do to help. First, you can bury or insulate the sump pump drainpipe. When you bury it, the ground acts as a natural “blanket” insulating the pipe. Installing shrubs, mulch, or flowers around it can also further insulate it. Keeping it as warm as possible can minimize the chance that the water will freeze in the pipes.

Check your float. The float is an important part of a sump pump, and it is also one of the most vulnerable to malfunction. The float rises with water in the sump pit, which in turn triggers the pump to start pulling water out of the pit. If you want to test your float, pour some water in it. If the float rises with the water and the pump activates and then shuts off when the water has been removed, you know it is working properly. Repeat this test every few weeks in the winter.

What if it floods? Flooding is major concern for all Erie homes with basements. A sump is great to have, but we all know nothing is full proof and a freezing cold winter is just one of the many reasons that can make a sump fail. Contact SERVPRO of West Erie County for any flooding or water issues or questions. SERVPRO professionals want you to know we are here to provide services when you have water damage due to flooding, drain backup, sump pump failure or any other water damage situation that can occur. Our trained professionals will perform the cleanup process in a professional manner with tools and equipment necessary.  We use technology and standards which guide us through the process. And we monitor and document the drying process for you and the insurance professionals so that you can have a complete understanding of the service we are providing. Call SERVPRO of West Erie County any time of the day at 814-806-1987.