Sump pump help and what you need to know

Posted By: Reid Kilmer
rkilmer@lkntv.com

When water sneaks into homes it can be handled with a sump pump…if you have one that works.

It sucks out the water as it starts to rise from underground and into your home.

With recent heavy rains those pumps have been working overtime and may need some maintenance.

John Henry’s Plumbing Supervisor Joe Reinke said, “This is definitely the most rain I’ve ever seen. I’ve been plumbing 13 years, been in Lincoln my whole life, 31 years, I’ve never seen this.”

There has been more than 18 inches of rain in Lincoln since May 1st, about three times the normal amount.

Reinke says there are a few important things to remember to do for maintenance.

First make sure your sump pump is plugged in and ready to use if water fills your sump pit.

Second, put pumps on a stand so they don’t suck up gravel and other debris.

Third, make sure it’s pumping water outside not just to a drain and make sure it works.

Reinke tells Channel 8 Eyewitness News, “It’s always good to throw some water in that sump pit to make sure that pump actually cycles and runs.”

John Henry’s recommends we replace them every 5-7 years depending on their use and to have that pump ready in case of emergency.

Reinke said, “It is good to have one just in case. When you have droughts and a lot of water, depending on the years, water will find a new way. It’s always better to have a pump in there; be proactive about it rather than flood your basement. It’s always good to have that pump in there,” 

John Henry’s says a replacement sump pump can cost you around $300.

If you don’t have a pit or pump system already set up, it can cost thousands of dollars to install.