Sump pump overflowing

Sump Pump Overflow

Updated April 5, 2017 . AmFam Team

Not all sump pump overflow issues are avoidable, but some of them are. Try these tips to learn how to possibly avoid sewer backup issues.

Thanks to that sump pump in your home, you’re much less likely to experience flooding or high moisture levels in your basement. Most of the time your sump pump works autonomously, quietly keeping your basement or lower level dry. But it does need a little TLC to keep running smoothly.

These tips can help you keep your head above water when it comes to sump pumps.

Check the line. Water runs from your sump pump through a hose or pipe to the outside. Sometimes debris gets hung up in the line so it’s a good idea to fill the pump hole with water and watch to make sure it flushes easily. Routinely ensure that water is running away from your house and not coming right back to it.

Create a care plan. Our Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist is a great starting point, but your sump pump will have its own personality that’s effected by its age, your home, the climate etc. Once you know how your sump pump reacts you’ll have a better idea of how much attention is needed.

Backup power. Your sump pump needs power to work. Ironically, you’re most likely to lose power in a big storm — which is exactly when you’ll need that sump pump running. This is why you’ll want to consider having some sort of backup power or a battery backup.

Clean the debris. Storm debris can clog up your sump pump. After major storms you should lift the lid to make sure you’re debris free. You may also want to give the filter a once over.

Inspect the float and switch. The float works much like the one in your toilet tank so there’s nothing new there. If the float seems to be working but there’s still an issue, then the culprit could be the float switch.

Check the owner’s manual. Sump pumps are not all the same so it’s a great idea to review the manual to see what maintenance they suggest for your particular model.

Even if you’re diligent, sometimes sump pumps don’t do the job, and you could end up with an unwanted “indoor pool” in your basement after a heavy storm. That’s why it’s smart to add sump pump overflow or sewer backup coverage to your homeowners insurance.

Make sure you have the coverage you need or contact an agent (Opens in a new tab) to review your options.

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