Why You Should Have a Sump Pump (And How to Keep It Ready When You Need It)

🌧️ When the Rain Comes, Be Ready

When heavy rains hit or the water table rises, your sump pump is your first line of defense against basement flooding. It quietly waits in your basement or crawlspace, ready to pump out water that would otherwise wreak havoc on your home.

But here’s the catch — a sump pump only helps if it’s working properly.

🛠️ What Is a Sump Pump (And Why Do I Need One)?

A sump pump is a small but mighty pump installed in a basin (called a sump pit) at the lowest part of your basement or crawlspace. Its job? To pump water out and away from your home when groundwater levels get too high.

Without a sump pump, that excess water can:

• 💦 Flood your basement
• 🧫 Lead to mold and mildew growth
• 🏚️ Damage your foundation
• 📉 Decrease your home’s value

If your home has a basement, is in a low-lying area, or has poor drainage, a sump pump isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

⚠️ Sump Pump Maintenance 101

Having a sump pump is step one. Keeping it ready to go is step two.

Here’s how to make sure your sump pump doesn't fail you in your moment of need:

✅ Test it regularly

• Pour water into the sump pit to ensure the float rises and the pump activates.
• If nothing happens, that’s your cue to call Drain King.

🔌 Check the power source

• Your pump should be plugged into a GFCI outlet.
• Make sure it’s not tripped or accidentally unplugged.

🧹 Clean the pump and pit

• Remove any dirt, gravel, or debris that could clog the pump.
• Inspect the discharge pipe for blockages.

🔋 Consider a battery backup

• If your power goes out during a storm (when you need it most), your sump pump won’t work without backup.
• A battery-powered backup system ensures you’re protected no matter what.

📆 Schedule an annual checkup

• Let the pros (like us!) inspect and service your sump pump yearly.

🚨 Warning Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Help

Call Drain King if you notice:

• Strange noises (like grinding or rattling)
• The pump runs constantly or cycles on/off quickly
• Visible rust or corrosion
• Water pooling around the sump pit
• No action during a heavy rain

💪 Protect Your Castle with Drain King

At Drain King of Chicago, we’ve seen too many preventable basement disasters caused by neglected sump pumps. That’s why we offer:

🔧 Sump pump installation
🧰 Maintenance and repairs
🔋 Backup system installs
📅 Annual service plans

Your sump pump may be out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Give yourself peace of mind before the next downpour hits.

📞 Ready to Protect Your Home?

Call Drain King of Chicago today at 777-249-7190  Because when water strikes — you don’t want to be unprepared.