A flooded basement is a surprise that no homeowner wants to get. Sump pumps are installed to help discharge any water that starts to collect in a basement area. If this pump malfunctions and gives out, you could have a real mess on your hands.

Here are some simple tips and tricks that you can use when replacing your sump pump to help the process go smoothly.

1. Test Your Existing Pump

The first thing you should do when replacing your sump pump is test the pump that is already installed in your home.

It's possible that the flooding in your basement is caused by something other than a faulty pump. You don't want to replace your pump if it still works. Locate the sump pit in your basement and pour a bucket of water into the pit.

This should activate the float switch that triggers your sump pump into motion. If the float switch moves but the pump doesn't turn on, move forward with the replacement.

2. Replace All Components

If you are going to the trouble of installing a new sump pump in your home, you should consider replacing all of the components within the sump pump system as well.

Common components that are replaced alongside sump pumps include the check valve and the drainpipe that are connected to the pump. Each of these components must work together to effectively prevent flooding in your home.

By replacing all three components simultaneously, you ensure that your new sump pump will continue to run properly well into the future.

3. Install a Backup Pump

You can choose to install a secondary backup pump when you are replacing the primary sump pump in your home. A battery-powered backup pump provides you with maximum protection against flooding in your home.

In the event that the primary pump is unable to function due to a power outage or mechanical malfunction, the backup pump will spring into action and discharge any flood water present in your basement.

Installing both a primary and a secondary pump ensures that your home is prepared to handle any flooding that occurs in the future.

Sump pump replacement is a process that homeowners don't think about too often. If you are unsure how to move forward, contact an experienced plumber for help. A plumber can help you evaluate your existing pump, replace all major components, and install a backup pump in your home.