Test sump pump

Test your sump pump to ensure it will protect your basement from flooding

Why it matters#

A failed sump pump during heavy rain can result in thousands of dollars in basement flood damage. Pumps can fail from stuck floats, burned-out motors, or power outages.

What you'll need#

Tools#

• Bucket (5-gallon)
• Flashlight

Steps#

1. Locate your sump pit#

The sump pit is usually in the lowest part of your basement or crawlspace, often in a corner. It may have a sealed or removable lid.

2. Check the power#

Verify the pump is plugged in. Most pumps plug into a regular outlet—some have a piggyback plug where the pump plugs into the float switch, which plugs into the wall.

3. Remove or open the pit cover#

Take off any lid so you can see inside. Use a flashlight to check for debris in the pit—rocks, dirt, or toys can jam the pump.

4. Pour water into the pit#

Slowly pour 5 gallons of water into the pit. Watch the float (a ball or cylinder attached to the pump) rise with the water level.

5. Verify the pump activates#

As water reaches the trigger level, the pump should turn on automatically. You'll hear the motor and see/hear water being pumped out through the discharge pipe.

6. Confirm discharge and shutoff#

Water should exit through the discharge pipe (usually to the exterior of your home). After pumping, the motor should shut off automatically as the float drops.

7. Test the backup system#

If you have a battery backup pump, unplug the main pump and repeat the water test. The backup should activate. Check that the backup battery is charged.

Pro tips#

• Test every 3-4 months and always before heavy rain season
• Clean debris from the pit annually—gravel and sediment accumulate
• Consider a battery backup pump if you don't have one—power often goes out during storms when you need the pump most
• Water-powered backup pumps require no electricity but need good water pressure
• A sump pump typically lasts 7-10 years; if yours is older, consider proactive replacement

Warnings#

• Never reach into a sump pit while the pump is plugged in
• Check that the discharge pipe directs water away from your foundation, not back toward the house
• If the pump runs constantly or cycles on/off rapidly, something is wrong—investigate immediately

When to call a pro#

If the pump won't activate, runs but doesn't pump water, makes grinding noises, or runs continuously. Also call if you find standing water in your basement—the pump may have failed.