A sump pump removes groundwater and discharges it to an outside area. Sump pumps run on electricity and are fairly common in Seattle due to the amount of rainfall we receive. Many Seattle homeowners rely on a sump pump to keep their basement or crawl space dry.  Overall, a sump pump performs the critical function of preventing structural water damage. An annual inspection helps support the sump pump’s efficiency.

Inspection

Call Raymark Plumbing and Sewer at 206-430-1954 to schedule your annual sump pump inspection. We ensure your pump is performing as expected. In addition, our experienced service plumber will:

  • Check the inlet screen, drain hose, and discharge pipe for blockages.
  • Check the mechanical switches and float components, and inspect the check valve.
  • Clear rocks and debris from the pump.
  • Flush the area with water and listen to the pump for any odd or irregular noises.
  • Make sure the pump is directing water away from your home.
  • Check the age of the pump. Pumps usually last from 5 to 7 years and then should be replaced.
  • Check the pump size to ensure the right amount of horsepower is available for your home’s site.

Tips

Further to the annual inspection, homeowners should check the pump periodically to ensure proper functioning.  Below are tips to help keep your sump pump running smoothly:

  • In the dry summer months, pour water near the pump to trigger it. Run the pump at least every 2-3 months to make sure it’s functioning.
  • Periodically check the drain hose and discharge pipe to make sure the water is flowing where you want it. Water should not drain back toward the house.
  • Replace the backup battery every 2 to 3 years.
  • Consider purchasing a generator. The backup battery may not be enough if the electricity goes out in the rainy season.

Repair and Installation

Call Raymark Plumbing & Sewer at 206-430-1954 if you need help with your pump. One of our knowledgeable plumbers will help determine what’s needed. We also recommend the ideal location to install the pump, and answer any questions you have.

Sewage Ejection Pump

Most sewer lines are sloped to ensure gravity pushes wastewater downstream.  However, when a toilet, sink, shower, or tub is located near or below the grade of the main sewer line, a sewage ejection pump is needed to ‘eject’ the waste up into the sewer line. Some basements or lower levels of a home may require this as well.

For best performance, only put human waste and toilet paper into sewage ejection pump systems. As a result, your pump should run longer and more efficiently. Equally important, you will avoid problems with clogs in your side sewer line.

Waste Recommendations

See Raymark’s Toilet Repair/Replacement page for recommendations on what should not be flushed down the toilet. Follow these recommendations to expand the life of your pump and your side sewer line.

Schedule your Raymark appointment today by calling 206-430-1954.  Also, ask your technician about our water-powered backup pump.

 

Schedule your Raymark appointment today by calling 206-430-1954 or complete our Contact form.

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FAQs

  • How often do you recommend I check my sump pump?

    A sump pump should be visually checked by the homeowner about once per month to ensure it’s operating as expected. 

    For your annual pump inspection, call Raymark. We perform a thorough check of the screen, hose, discharge pipe, switches, valves, etc. and make sure that water is directed away from your home.

  • What is the life span of a sump pump?

    Sump pumps usually last from 5 to 7 years and should be replaced after 7 years.  Replace the back-up battery every 2 to 3 years.

  • Will my sump pump work if there's a power outage?

    The back-up battery should ensure the sump pump continues to work.  You may want to purchase a generator as a back-up to the back-up, especially in winter months where power outages may not be able to be fixed right away.