Springtime Sump Pump Preparation . . .

Before the spring season homeowners should follow this simple guideline to help assure the basement sump pump is ready for the rainy seasons ahead.

1. Make sure the sump pump is plugged in and the GFCI Breaker (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is ready for operation.
2. Inspect pit for any debris that might be in the pit, or debris that could obstruct the on and off float.
3. Inspect and clean the 3/16" weep hole in the discharge pipe to prevent a possible airlock situation.
4. Add water to the pit to verify that the pump is turning on and off properly. With automatic preset switches, if water exceeds the top of the pump before turning on, or if the pump does not shut off refer to step 2. If the pump uses an adjustable float switch the pump should turn on at the set on level. A small stream of water should spray out of the 3/16" weep hole that helps prevent an airlock and you should hear the check valve open and shut during pump operation.
5. If your sump system is equipped with a battery backup:

• Verify the water level in the battery (unless it is a maintenance free gel battery) is up to the fill line or about ½" from the top of the battery cells.
• Inspect the backup pump for any debris and verify that the float switch is not obstructed.
• Unplug the primary pump and add water to the pit so that the backup runs. NOTE TO PLUG THE PRIMARY PUMP BACK IN AFTER INSPECTION
• The alarm should sound. (The 507 and 510 require you to manual reset the alarm switch by pushing the button on the control panel)
• If the battery system does not operate properly, please see your Owners Manual for Trouble Shooting or contact Technical Services.

If your sump system is equipped with a water-powered backup:

• Verify that the water supply valve is in the on position.
• Inspect the backup pump for any debris and verify that the float switch in not obstructed.
• Unplug the primary pump and add water to the pit so that the water powered backup runs. NOTE TO PLUG THE PRIMARY PUMP BACK IN AFTER INSPECTION
• If the pump does not pump water, please see your Owners Manual for Trouble Shooting or contact Technical Services.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: If your sump pump system is not equipped with a battery or water-powered backup system, strong consideration should be made to add one for extra protection in the event of an electrical outage or primary pump failure.

1. Check the high water alarm (if installed) by raising the alarm float switch or by touching the sensors (Aquanot Flood Alert) with water. If an alarm is not installed, one is recommended to alert of a high water condition or sump pump failure.
2. Verify that the piping is secure and free of any leaks during pump operation. If a cover or vent was disconnected to gain access to the sump pump, please reinstall and secure.

By following this simple guideline your system should be ready for the water demands of the upcoming seasons. If for any reason your system does not meet these guidelines, refer to your Owners Manual for the Trouble Shooting Checklist or contact Zoeller's Technical Services for help.