How to test if your sump pump will work when the next storm hits
Manual tests, float switch checks, and battery backup systems for Magnolia flood risk.
By Trey · · 4 min read
When heavy rain rolls through Magnolia, a working sump pump is the difference between a dry basement and thousands of dollars in water damage. But most homeowners don't think about testing their sump pump until it's too late, when water is already pooling around the foundation. Testing takes about fifteen minutes and can save you a real headache. We'll walk you through what to check and what to look for.
Check the power supply first
Your sump pump needs electricity to run. Start by making sure the outlet it's plugged into actually has power. Flip the breaker off and back on to see if that helps. If the outlet is dead, you have a bigger electrical problem that might need attention before storm season hits. Some sump pumps plug into a standard outlet, while others are hard-wired into your electrical panel. If yours is hard-wired, you'll want to make sure the dedicated circuit breaker is in the on position. If you're not comfortable working around your electrical panel, that's a good time to call an electrician.
Run the float test
The float is the part that triggers the pump to turn on when water rises. Find the pump in your basement or crawl space and locate the float mechanism. It usually looks like a ball or an arm attached to the pump. Manually lift the float up slowly. You should hear the pump kick on. If nothing happens, the pump may not be getting power, or the float switch might be broken. If the pump does turn on, let it run for a few seconds to make sure it's actually moving water out, then lower the float to turn it off. A working pump should respond quickly and smoothly.
Pour water in the basin to test the cycle
This is the real test. Fill a bucket with water and slowly pour it into the sump pump basin. Watch as the water level rises. The pump should kick on automatically when the water reaches a certain height. You want to see the pump start running on its own without you having to touch anything. The pump should then lower the water level noticeably. If it doesn't turn on, or if it turns on but barely moves water, you have a problem. If the pump runs but water drains very slowly, the discharge line might be clogged. In Magnolia, where we get serious rain in spring and summer, a slow pump is almost as bad as a dead one.
Inspect the discharge line
Follow the pipe that carries water away from your pump. It should lead outside and away from your foundation, ideally at least ten feet out into your yard. Check that the pipe isn't kinked, crushed, or clogged. Sometimes leaves or debris block the opening where water exits. Clear any blockage you can see. If the discharge line is buried or runs under landscaping, you might not be able to see a clog. That's where a plumber with a camera can help. A backed-up discharge line means your pump is working hard but water isn't actually leaving the area around your home.
Look for cracks or rust
Open the pump cover and look inside the basin. Check for visible cracks in the basin itself, which can cause water to leak back into the surrounding soil. Also look at the pump body for rust or corrosion. A little surface rust is normal, but heavy rust or pitting might mean the pump is getting old and could fail when you need it most. If the pump is more than seven or eight years old, it's worth thinking about replacement before the next major storm season.
Test the backup system if you have one
Some homes have a battery backup sump pump in case the power goes out during a storm. If you have one, test it the same way. Make sure the battery is charged and that the backup pump turns on when the float rises. A backup system is smart insurance if you're in a neighborhood prone to flooding or if power outages happen regularly during storms.
Know when to call for help
If your pump doesn't turn on during the float test, or if water drains too slowly, call a plumber. If you notice the discharge line is clogged, we can snake it out and get water flowing again. If the pump itself is failing, we can replace it with a new one sized for your basement. In Magnolia, we see plenty of sump pump problems after the heavy rains come through, and it's always easier to fix it before the storm than during it.
Testing your sump pump once or twice a year takes a few minutes and gives you real confidence that it will work when you need it. Bradbury Brothers Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical can help if you find problems or want a professional inspection. Give us a call and we'll make sure your sump pump is ready for whatever weather comes next.