If you’ve ever walked downstairs after a heavy rainstorm and found your basement a little “squishy,” you know the panic that water intrusion can cause. That’s where sump pumps come in. They are the unsung heroes of your home’s water defense system.

But owning a sump pump isn’t a one-and-done solution. Like any mechanical system, it needs a little TLC to keep performing when it matters most. Whether you're dealing with spring melt, summer storms, or fall downpours, here's your complete guide to keeping your sump pump (and your home) dry all year.

First, What Exactly Does a Sump Pump Do?

In the simplest terms, a sump pump removes water that collects in a specially designed pit in your basement or crawl space. As water gathers, from rain, groundwater, or melting snow, it’s directed to this low point. When the water level gets high enough, the pump kicks in and sends it away from your home’s foundation through a discharge pipe.

There are two primary types: 

  • Submersible pumps: sit below water inside the sump pit
  • Pedestal pumps: stand above the sump pit

Each has its pros and cons, but both serve the same basic purpose: prevent water from becoming your next renovation project.

Why You Should Care (Even If Your Basement Seems Dry)

You might be thinking: “I’ve never had flooding, do I really need to worry?” The answer is yes. 

Water damage doesn’t always arrive like a mini tsunami. Sometimes it creeps in slowly: a trickle here, a damp corner there. Over time, that moisture can lead to mold, mildew, warped wood, rusted appliances, and even foundation cracks.

Sump pumps aren’t just for people in flood zones. They’re for anyone with a below-grade space and a desire to keep it clean, dry, and safe.

Common Reasons Sump Pumps Fail

  • Power outages: Your pump relies on electricity. A heavy storm might knock out power just when you need it most.
  • Clogged discharge lines: Leaves, ice, or sediment can block the pipe and cause backups.
  • Float switch failures: If the switch gets stuck or breaks, the pump might not activate.
  • Aging components: Pumps don’t last forever — most give you 7–10 years before needing replacement.
  • Improper installation: From missing check valves to incorrect pipe angles, a poor install can shorten your pump’s lifespan significantly.

Seasonal Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

Staying ahead of sump pump problems isn’t complicated, it only takes a little consistency. This is where the skilled, licensed, and dependaworthy professional plumbers at Ben Franklin Plumbing can help! We’re here for free inspections and consultations all year round. We also believe that well-informed customers make the best customers! 

Here are our DIY tips for good sump pump maintenance through all four seasons:

Spring: Winter thaw and rainstorms are a double-whammy for your pump. This is prime inspection time:

  1. Remove any debris from the sump pit.
  2. Pour water into the basin to ensure the pump activates and drains properly.
  3. Inspect the discharge pipe for blockages or damage.
  4. Check for odd noises or vibrations when the pump runs, these can signal worn parts.

Summer: Drier weather doesn’t mean your pump gets a vacation. Summer storms can bring sudden downpours, so:

  1. Ensure the discharge pipe routes water far enough from your foundation.
  2. Consider testing your backup system (especially if storms are frequent in your area).
  3. Clean around the pit to keep pests and dust from interfering.

Fall: Leaves and debris can wreak havoc on exterior drains. 

  1. Clear your gutters and downspouts to prevent overflow near the foundation.
  2. Inspect the check valve to ensure it’s working properly.
  3. If you have a battery backup, test it before winter.

Winter: Cold temps bring new risks:

  1. Ensure the discharge line is insulated or graded properly to avoid freezing.
  2. Remove any standing water from the pit if the pump won’t be used for long periods.
  3. Confirm the sump pit cover (if you have one) is in good shape to block cold air and debris.

Bonus Tips for Keeping Water Out — With or Without a Pump

A sump pump is a key player, but it’s not your entire defense squad. Here’s how to build out the rest of your water prevention strategy:

  • Improve grading around your home so water runs away from the foundation, not toward it.
  • Extend your downspouts so rainwater isn’t dumping right next to your basement wall.
  • Seal foundation cracks to prevent seepage from groundwater pressure.
  • Add a backup system, battery-powered or water-powered, in case the main pump fails.
  • Install a sump pump alarm to alert you before water gets too high in the pit.

When to Replace Your Sump Pump

Even a well-maintained sump pump will age out eventually. Most last 7 to 10 years, though frequent use or poor maintenance can shorten that. If your pump is older and showing signs of struggle, like running constantly, making strange noises, or failing to remove water quickly, it may be time for a replacement.

When shopping for a new one, consider factors like:

  • Horsepower
  • Type (pedestal vs. submersible),]
  • Materials (cast iron tends to be more durable)
  • Additional features like alarms or dual-switch setups

A sump pump might not be the flashiest home feature, but when you need it, you’ll be glad it’s there and that it works. Your Ben Franklin Plumbing experts can easily inspect your sump pump individually or as part of an overall plumbing system safety check. We highly recommend that you don’t try to repair or replace your sump pump yourself as plumbing repairs and upgrades usually involve knowledge of local city, county, and state building codes. Let one of our insured, bonded, and certified professionals handle the service call.

At Ben Franklin Plumbing, we address your plumbing concerns correctly, safely, and affordably the first time. We’ve been proudly serving customers in Charlotte and the surrounding area for decades, including Indian Trail, Concord, and Mooresville.

Visit http://www.benfranklinplumbing.com or call our 24/7 customer service line today (704) 802-1379.