Q&A for How to Clean out a Sump Pit

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How often should you clean your sump pump pit?

David Balkan
Professional Plumber
David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award.

David Balkan

Professional Plumber

Expert Answer

Try to clean out your sump pump pit around once or twice a year, if you can. Over time, grit or dirt can get into the sump, which can foul the pump.

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Question

What do you use to clean a sump pit?

David Balkan
Professional Plumber
David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award.

David Balkan

Professional Plumber

Expert Answer

It's very simple! All you really need is a set of gardening gloves and a couple of regular household wrenches.

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Question

Can I put bleach in a sump pump to clean it?

Community Answer

I would use CLR. Bleach has chlorine, which can initiate or accelerate corrosion of some components.

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Question

How do I disinfect a sump pump?

Adrian

Top Answerer

Disinfection is unnecessary, as it goes in the storm sewer. If you need to, just rinse with water.

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Why does my float arm stick?

Community Answer

The hinge may need lubricating. WD40 is helpful.

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What chemicals do I use?

Adrian

Top Answerer

Don't use chemicals. Just use water.

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What is wrong if water is not coming from the hole?

Adrian

Top Answerer

There likely is a blockage. Fix it quick, or your basement might flood. If you are not experienced with plumbing, call a plumber for help on unblocking. Otherwise, use a drain snake to remove debris. If that is not helpful, call a plumber.

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Question

Can I use bleach or any other cleaners to clean a sump pit?

Community Answer

Yes, provided you do a thorough rinsing with hot water to ensure no bleach residue sits in the tank.

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Question

Can I use vinegar to clean my old sump pump pit? My plumber and the septic tank people do not want to do the job, so I have to find a way to clean it myself.

Community Answer

It is best to use white vinegar and water, in equal parts. Anything else can ruin the rubber rings inside the pump and cause it to wear out quickly.

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