How often should you test the sump pump?
Twice a year — before wet seasons. On a calendar: March and October.
Why it matters
A sump pump spends most of its life idle and is only discovered dead during the storm that needed it.
How to do it
Pour a bucket of water into the pit and confirm the pump starts, drains the pit, and shuts off. If it has a battery backup, test that too.
Signs you've waited too long
There is no warning sign short of a flooded basement — testing is the warning sign.
Gable keeps this list for you.
The Gable app builds your home's maintenance schedule, reminds you when tasks come due, and keeps the record of everything you've done. Coming soon to iPhone.