Sump Pump Maintenance Tips for a Dry Basement

A dry basement is often taken for granted—until it floods. Homeowners in Ontario know that sudden rainfall, melting snow, or even a power outage can quickly turn a quiet basement into a costly disaster zone. One of the best lines of defense against this is your sump pump. This often-overlooked device works hard to keep your home safe from water intrusion, yet it’s frequently neglected until it fails. At Preferred Restoration Contractors, we’ve responded to hundreds of flooded basements that could have been avoided with proper sump pump maintenance.
A sump pump sits in a pit, usually in the lowest part of your basement. When water from rain or groundwater seeps in, the pump activates, redirecting the water away from your home’s foundation. When it works, you barely notice it. When it doesn’t, the consequences can include thousands of dollars in water damage, mould growth, and the loss of personal belongings. That’s why routine inspection and care are so crucial.
The biggest mistake homeowners make is assuming their sump pump will always work when needed. But like any mechanical system, it’s vulnerable to failure. Clogs in the pump pit, a faulty float switch, electrical issues, or even a disconnected discharge pipe can all render the unit useless. Regular maintenance ensures these problems are caught early.
Seasonal inspection is especially important in Ontario, where spring thaws and summer storms can overwhelm drainage systems. Before peak flooding season, it’s smart to test your pump by filling the pit with water and ensuring the system activates. It’s also important to check the discharge line outside your home to make sure water is being expelled properly and not pooling near the foundation.
In addition to inspections, battery backups are strongly recommended. Storms and heavy rainfall often coincide with power outages—precisely when you need your pump the most. A backup power source ensures your pump can keep working even when the lights go out.
At Preferred Restoration Contractors, we provide sump pump servicing as part of our basement waterproofing solutions. We clean and test units, verify electrical connections, and install reliable battery backup systems. We also assess the drainage around your home to ensure it supports the pump’s efforts.
The peace of mind that comes with a properly maintained sump pump cannot be overstated. It’s not just about avoiding water damage—it’s about protecting the comfort and safety of your family, especially when you’ve invested in finished basement spaces, home offices, or valuable storage.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your sump pump, or if you haven’t had it checked in the past year, now is the time. Don’t wait for water to seep in. Call Preferred Restoration Contractors to schedule a professional inspection and enjoy a dry, safe basement year-round.