How Do I Maintain My Sump Pump in Spring?

Spring storms in Lexington aren’t just about blooming flowers and muddy boots — they’re a real test for your home’s sump pump. And if it fails during a heavy rain? You could be facing basement flooding, mold growth, and thousands of dollars in damage.

But don’t worry — a little spring sump pump maintenance goes a long way. Whether you’re a new homeowner or just haven’t thought about your pump since last year, this guide will help you keep your system in top shape and your basement bone-dry.

Let’s walk through simple sump pump maintenance steps, signs of trouble, and when to call in Fast Flow Plumbing for expert help.

1. Why Sump Pump Maintenance Matters in Spring

Why is sump pump maintenance important in spring?
Because spring in Kentucky means rain — and lots of it. A working sump pump can prevent serious water damage during thunderstorms, flash floods, or even just high groundwater levels.

Without regular maintenance, your sump pump might:

• Fail to turn on during a storm
• Struggle to pump water fast enough
• Get clogged with debris
• Burn out entirely from overuse

That’s why Fast Flow Plumbing recommends checking your pump every spring — before the rain kicks in.

2. Step-by-Step Spring Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist

Here’s a quick routine you can do in under 15 minutes:

Step 1: Inspect the Pump

• Make sure it’s upright and hasn’t tipped over.
• Check for rust, corrosion, or loose wires.

Step 2: Test the Pump

• Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit.
• The float should rise and trigger the pump.
• Water should pump out quickly and shut off automatically.

Step 3: Clean the Sump Pit

• Remove any debris, dirt, or gravel that could clog the pump.
• Make sure the intake screen is clean and not blocked.

Step 4: Check the Discharge Pipe

• Make sure the pipe leads away from your foundation.
• Check for cracks, blockages, or frozen sections.

Step 5: Check for Power

• Confirm it’s plugged into a working GFCI outlet.
• Consider a battery backup system in case of power outages (very common in Lexington storms!).

If anything seems off — weird noises, slow drainage, or no response — don’t wait. Call Fast Flow Plumbing and we’ll get it back in shape before the next big rain.

3. Common Spring Sump Pump Problems and Fixes

Why is my sump pump running non-stop in spring?
That usually means:

• The float switch is stuck
• The check valve is broken
• There’s a high water table or poor drainage

Why does my basement still smell musty if my sump pump is working?
Your pump may be removing water but not completely drying the area. Consider:

• Adding a dehumidifier
• Checking for leaks in walls or windows
• Making sure your sump pit is sealed properly

Why is water backing up even when my pump runs?
Your discharge line might be clogged or frozen. Or, you might need a more powerful pump.

These are all things Fast Flow Plumbing can diagnose quickly. We’ll let you know if a repair, upgrade, or replacement is the best route — and we won’t dig up your basement to do it.

4. When to Call a Pro for Sump Pump Repair or Replacement

Sump pumps typically last 7-10 years. If yours is near that age or showing signs of failure, it’s probably time for a replacement.

Call Fast Flow if you notice:

• Constant cycling (on/off rapidly)
• Loud or unusual noises
• Visible rust or damage
• No response during a test

We also install battery backup systems to give you extra protection during spring power outages — no flooded basement, even if the lights go out.

Need fast help? We offer emergency plumbing service throughout Lexington and surrounding areas. Reach out today.

5. Sump Pump Maintenance + Trenchless Drainage Support

Sometimes, sump pump problems aren’t caused by the pump at all — they’re caused by poor drainage or damaged pipes.

That’s where Fast Flow’s trenchless services come in. If your discharge line is broken underground or your foundation drains aren’t working, we can repair or replace them without digging up your yard.

We use:

• Video camera inspections
• No-dig drain line repair
• Smart trenchless pipe lining solutions

Learn more about trenchless repair options here.

Protect Your Basement This Spring — Call Fast Flow Plumbing Today!

Don’t wait until your sump pump fails during the first big spring storm. Give yourself peace of mind with a full inspection, expert advice, or a professional sump pump upgrade from Fast Flow Plumbing.

Call us today at (833) 875-8940
Schedule sump pump service on our website
Visit our location on Google Maps

Your basement will thank you — and so will your wallet.