Flood calendar
A year of sump checks in Erie
Lake-effect snow, spring thaw and August thunderstorms each test the pit differently. This is when to look.
Winter: check the outlet
A discharge end can freeze shut after a hard freeze. Clear it, and check it again before a thaw.
Dec to Feb
Thaw: test the pit
Lake-effect snow melts all at once. Pour a bucket of water into the pit and watch the pump start and stop.
Mar to May
Storm season: test the battery
Summer thunderstorms cut power. Unplug the main pump and check that the backup starts.
Jun to Aug
Leaf fall: clear the wells
Leaves block window wells and downspouts, and water goes where they used to. Clear them before the first fall storm.
Sep to Nov
Twice a year: lift the float
Lift it by hand until the pump starts. A float that sticks is the most common reason a pump doesn't run.
all year
The two-minute pit test
Do it in spring and in early summer.
- Look into the pit with a flashlight. Clear any silt or debris you can reach.
- Pour a bucket of water into the pit.
- Watch the pump start, empty the pit and stop on its own.
- Unplug the main pump, pour in another bucket, and confirm the backup starts.
- Plug the main pump back in.
If the pump hums but doesn't move water, or runs without stopping, call the storm line or send the details. Don't reach into the pit with the pump plugged in.
Want us to run the test with you?
A plumber can do it on a dry day and photograph the result for your file.