4 inch slurry pump 3d model

11 Steps to Cleaning Your Sump Pump

How to Clean a Sump Pump Correctly

A quick brush-over isn’t enough. A proper and thorough cleaning of the sump pump is the best way to keep it functional—preventing occurrences of standing water. Here are the steps on how to clean a sump pump correctly:

1. Make Sure the Sump Pump Works

First, you will need to make sure the sump pump works. Find a bucket, fill it with a couple of gallons of water, and dump it into the sump pit. The pump should turn on and drain the water. If it doesn’t turn to a professional to inspect and repair your system.

2. Check to Confirm Conditions Are Safe for Maintenance

Sump pump cleaning should be avoided when the system is actively taking in water. Make sure it’s not raining outside or water from appliances isn't draining into the sump pump basin. Not only can this make sump pump cleaning messier and more difficult, but it’s also potentially hazardous.

3. Remove the Pump

The next step of cleaning your sump pump is to remove the system from the pit. Disconnect the pipe leading to the pump underneath the check valve with a screwdriver. Use a bucket to catch water and anything else that may come out. Raise the pump out of the pit and place it on a plastic sheet or tarp.

4. Turn Off the Power Supply

Of the most important steps, cutting off the sump pump’s power supply is number one. As removal is being conducted, unplug the pump from the electrical outlet. Never clean or repair your sump pump when it’s powered on—it’s a safety concern.

5. Prepare the System for Cleaning

Move your sump pump onto a plastic sheet or tarp to catch dripping water or runoff. The plastic sheet or tarp underneath allows free rein when it comes to cleaning.

6. Spray the Sump Pump

Once the sump pump is placed in an appropriate spot, use your garden hose to spray it down. Spraying the pump rinses off buildups of dirt, dust, sludge, and other residues or debris. Make sure the pump has been entirely cleaned off.

7. Remove Excess Materials

If there is leftover debris that was unable to be removed through the previous step, apply a scraping tool to the area. While you are cleaning your sump pump and scraping away at the leftover debris, make sure not to damage the components of your system.

8. Rinse the Pump

Once the debris has been removed, use your garden hose to rinse the sump pump again. This final and thorough rinse of the pump is there to make sure everything is spotless—free of lingering remnants. The entirety of the pump should be rinsed, even the intake and exhaust.

9. Drain the Check Valve

Sump pump systems include a check valve, an important component responsible for preventing water from flowing back to the sump pit. The check valve needs to be drained due to the build-up of debris and water over time.

Place a bucket underneath the check valve and remove the remaining water and debris. This step keeps the valve free of obstruction and functional, which allows the pump to operate as it should.

10. Remove Standing Water from the Sump Pit

Grab your wet/dry vacuum and remove the remainder of the standing water from the sump pit. You can also use the vacuum to clean spills or messes made during the sump pump cleaning process.

11. Reinstall the Sump Pump

Lastly, place the pump back in the pit and reconnect the pipe and power. Before reconnecting the power and turning the system back on, make sure the cords and plugs are dry.

Sump Pump Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Often Should You Clean Your Sump Pump?

It’s recommended to follow the cleaning regimen provided by the pump’s manufacturer. Sump pumps typically should be cleaned either every year or every six months. If you’ve noticed excess water or remnant buildup, especially after heavy snow or rainfall, clean it sooner.

Can You Use Vinegar in Your Sump Pump?

Straight vinegar should never be poured directly into the sump pump. A 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean off the pump during the sump pump cleaning process. If the sump pump’s pit is dirty, you can place one gallon of vinegar and two gallons of warm water to clean it. Make sure to let the pit sit for at least 20 minutes before reconnecting the pump and rinse the pump with five gallons of clean water.

Can You Use Bleach in Your Sump Pump?

Yes, bleach can be used as an odor fighter for sump pumps. Avoid the usage of bleach if you have a septic system. Create a mixture of one cup of bleach for every gallon of water and pour it into the sump pit after cleaning. Enough of this mixture should be poured in to activate the pump and drain the water.

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