Here is what it would cost you to maintain your basement sump pump.

Your basement sump pump serves a critical function as it helps in moisture control.

Having installed this piece of equipment, it’s necessary to ensure it remains in perfect working condition.

It’s inevitable for a sump pump to steadily decline in functionality in the absence of maintenance.

How Much Does Basement Sump Pump Maintenance Cost?

This is a situation you want to avoid as its decline means potential trouble with moisture. In other words, basement flooding is likely to result when a sump pump is no longer functional.

So, what will it cost to maintain a basement sump pump? This is what we seek to discuss.

As you read on, you’ll find all the cost-related information associated with maintenance. Such information is crucial for purposes of planning.

So, without further ado, let’s jump right into it!

National Average Costimates

Wherever you live within the United States, understanding maintenance and inspection costs will require knowing the national average costs.

Yes! There’s a national average when it comes to sump pump maintenance. It will cost you an average of $200 to perform this procedure.

The average cost range for sump pump maintenance is around $150 to $250. At the minimum, you’re likely to incur a fee of $52.

On the high side, expect to pay around $300 or higher. So, are these the exact costs for all sump pump maintenance jobs?

Not at all! Specific jobs come with their unique cost estimations.

Is Sump Pump Repair and Maintenance the Same?

Oftentimes, people make the mistake of using the two words (repair and maintenance) interchangeably.

In reality, these have different meanings. In the case of repair, there’s a problem with the basement sump pump that needs to be fixed.

On the other hand, a breakdown or problem isn’t necessary before a basement sump pump is considered for maintenance. As the name implies it’s only a routine procedure needed to keep the system in perfect working condition.

From the distinctions made, it’s clear that maintenance involves a different approach from repair. As such, the costs are quite different. Repair costs tend to be higher than maintenance costs.

This is understandable because a malfunction needs to be fixed.

What Does a Maintenance Procedure Cover?

To fully understand sump pump maintenance costs, there’s a need to know what’s included.

Basically, the process involves three approaches; cleaning, clearing, and testing.

Each of these focuses on a different aspect with the sole aim of keeping the system in optimal working condition.

  • Cleaning

Basement sump pump components such as the floater can easily be affected by dirt and debris.

This keeps it from proper detection of water levels. Cleaning targets this dirt and debris by getting rid of them.

Also, rust buildup is common on sump pumps. These are also cleaned off.

  • Clearing

Sump pump pipes or lines may get clogged or obstructed.

This happens slowly and can completely block off the lines when maintenance is skipped. To keep the pump from overworking (extra effort in pushing through obstructions), the lines will need to be cleared.

  • Testing

Basement sump pumps with batteries will need to be tested for charge and possibly replaced when found to be dead. Having cleaned and cleared the pump and lines respectively, the system will need to be tested.

This is done by pouring water into the sump pit to raise the floater.

Having triggered on the sump pump, an observation is made to determine whether it’s running smoothly.

It’s important to note that only a licensed and experienced technician should be called for all sump pump-related maintenance.

What Happens When A Sump Pump Less Efficient or Too Old?

Asides from the maintenance cost incurred, a sump pump may be found to be less efficient or too old. Here, a sump pump contractor may recommend having it replaced.

This attracts a whole new range of costs. So, apart from the routine maintenance cost paid, you’re faced with additional replacement costs.

The cost of replacement depends on the type of sump pump. There are two common types; submersible and pedestal pumps.

On average, you’re likely to spend around $800 to $2,000 for submersible pump replacement and around $400 to $900 for pedestal sump pump replacement.

Cost-Saving Measures For Sump Pump Maintenance

Having discussed the costs involved in sump pump maintenance, it’s necessary to include cost-saving measures to adopt. Here, even though you’re not a pro or maintenance expert, the adoption of these simple procedures should be highly beneficial.

These tips include being on the lookout for any anomaly with your system. Also, consider working out a maintenance schedule with your service provider. What you pay is determined by who you hire.

Regular test of your sump pump is important. Plus, have your sump pit cleaned periodically.

  • Be Observant of Any Anomaly

Remember, a sump pump doesn’t have a breakdown before seeking professional help.

It’s important to look out for any anomalies no matter how little they are. These enable you to take immediate action. The earlier you act the less maintenance cost you’re likely to incur.

  • Work Out a Maintenance Schedule

It’s best to have a maintenance schedule carefully worked out with the help of your technician.

This goes a long way to avoid breakdowns or any other issues that may result. Most contractors will offer competitive rates when signing maintenance contracts.

  • Who You Hire is Crucial to Maintenance Costs

Basement sump pump maintenance costs differ from one contractor to another.

However slight these cost variations may be, it’s best to take advantage of the best possible rates. This is done by asking for quotes from 2 to 3 different contractors.

  • Regular Testing is Necessary

When the rains are gone, it’s still necessary to ensure your sump pump remains functional.

Here, you don’t have to be a technician to carry out this action. All you have to do is pour enough water into your sump pit to raise the float.

When it triggers the pump, the water should be easily emptied. When this is affected, you might have to call for help.

  • Clean Your Sump Pit Periodically

Periodic cleaning of your sump pit will help keep the system in good working condition.

Cleaning involves the removal of gravel, dirt, sand, and all other forms of debris. Performing this action enables you to cut down on maintenance costs charged by a contractor for similar action.

The maintenance cost for a basement sump pump depends on the factors above.

With this knowledge, you should be able to carry out this procedure with little problems if any. Of course, the importance of a sump pump contractor to this process cannot be overstated.

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