How to Repair a Sump Pit
Sump pumps installed in a basement are designed to prevent the penetration of ground water. A sump pump is typically located in a pit or a basin in the floor. When this pit or basin for the sump pump becomes clogged the sump pump will not function correctly. You can alleviate the problem by periodically cleaning the sump pit to keep it working properly. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Drop cloth
- Scoop
- Bucket
- Rubber gloves
- Rubber scraper
- Putty knife
- Wet/dry vacuum
- Garden hose
- High pressure nozzle
Instructions
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1
Turn off the breaker to the sump pump at your homes circuit panel.
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2
Loosen the screw securing the clamp to the discharge hose on your sump pump. Disconnect the hose from the main body of the pump.
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3
Lay a drop cloth on the floor near the sump pit. Extract the sump pump from the pit and place it on the drop cloth.
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4
Scoop out debris from the pit or basin by using a garden shovel or some other type of scoop and into a bucket. Debris can also be removed by scooping it out with your hand. Put on rubber gloves to do this.
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5
Scrape the sides of the pit or basin with a rubber scraper or use a putty knife to remove any sludge. Use a cup or the scoop to remove the sludge and put it in the bucket.
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6
Remove the remaining water in the pit or basin by using a wet/dry vacuum.
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7
Spray the sides of the pit or basin with a garden hose using a high-pressure nozzle. Use the vacuum to remove the water.
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8
Place the sump pump back into the pit or basin. Reconnect the discharge hose and secure the clamp by tightening the screw.
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9
Turn on the breaker at the breaker box. Add water into the pit to allow the sump pump to turn on.
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Tips & Warnings
Clean your sump pump at least once a year to remove silt, sand and other debris.
