How to Stop a Sump Pump From Leaking

Sump pumps are great for removing water from flooded basements. They can even be used to drain pools or in boats to get rid of water that has seeped in. But sometimes sump pumps start to leak. Often if this happens, you usually need to replace the sump pump. But sometimes you can stop a sump pump from leaking by simply removing debris that can prevent the pump from functioning efficiently.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rubber gloves
• Narrow scraper
• Plastic cap
• Caulking gun
• Vinegar and water
• Garbage bags
• Self-adhesive gasket

1. Remove the pump cover so that you can access the edges of the pump. Be sure to put your gloves on first.

2. Clean the pump's edges using the scraper. Be very careful when handling the debris. As you scrape it, collect it and put it in a thick plastic garbage bag. This debris can be toxic, so you don't want to throw it away with your regular garbage. You may need to dispose of it at any outlet that get rid of chemicals. Also make sure that none of the debris falls into the mechanical part of the pump.

3. Create a half-and-half vinegar and water mixture. Grab some old rags and carefully clean the edges of the pump. Flush the inside of the sump pit with the same type of half-and-half mixture. Make a fresh mixture to do this.

4. Turn on the pump so that the vinegar and water mixture goes through its mechanical components. This will remove any debris that could be causing leaks.

5. Repeat steps three and four. Put the sump pump cover back on. Then seal it with a self-adhesive gasket, plastic cap and caulking gun.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear heavy-duty rubber gloves when you work on the sump pump.