How to Clean and Remove a Sump Pump
Sump pumps, commonly installed in basements to prevent flood/water damage, require occasional upkeep to remain in good working condition. As water and other debris flow into the sump basin, the pump will inevitably get dirty and possibly develop mildew and/or a foul odor. If left untreated, this may eventually inhibit the effectiveness of your sump pump. The removal and cleaning of a sump pump as part of a regular maintenance routine is a task you can do on your own. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Wet/dry vacuum or small pump
- Bucket
- Adjustable wrench
- Garden hose and spray nozzle
- Household bleach
Instructions
-
Removal
-
1
Turn off the circuit breaker supplying electrical power to the sump pump. A specific breaker may be designated for the pump or you may be required to switch off the breaker designated for the entire basement. If your pump is plugged into a nearby 120V outlet, simply unplug.
-
2
Eliminate all water from the sump basin. You can accomplish this task many ways. A secondary pump will quickly empty the basin. Similarly, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the water. You can also use a coffee can and bucket to manually remove the water.
-
-
3
Remove the pump's discharge pipe. Locate where the pipe is attached to the pump. In most cases, the discharge pipe is attached with a coupling nut. Use an adjustable wrench to turn the coupling nut counterclockwise. Once the nut is loose, carefully remove the discharge pipe from the outlet on the pump.
-
4
Lift the sump pump from the basin. Handle the pump with care to avoid damaging any of its components, such as the float switch. Place the pump outside for cleaning.
Cleaning
-
5
Attach a garden hose to a water valve. Attach a spray nozzle to the hose. Stand back and spray the exterior surface of the pump with water. If the pump is caked in grime, prepare a cleaning solution of bleach and water. Add 1 tbsp. of bleach to 1 gallon of warm water. Use a scrub brush dipped in the bleach solution to wash the pump. Rinse the pump with fresh water.
-
6
Allow the pump to dry outdoors. While the pump dries, take the garden hose and its spray nozzle indoors to the sump basin. Spray the sides of the basin with water. Use the bleach solution, mixed at 1 tbsp. of bleach per gallon of water, to scrub the entire surface of the basin.
-
7
Remove the dirty water from the basin with a secondary pump, wet/dry vacuum or by hand. Inspect the basin to ensure it is clean. If you are satisfied, reinstall the pump, reconnect the discharge pipe and restore the pump's electricity.
-
8
Pour a fresh mixture of bleach and water --- 1 tbsp. of bleach to 1 gallon of water --- into the basin. Add enough of the bleach solution to activate the sump pump. This will draw the bleach into the pump and effectively clean its interior mechanism, as well as the drainage pipe.
-
1
