DIY guideBasement and foundation
Get the basement ready for spring melt and heavy rain
Before the thaw or a big storm, test the sump pump, check where it empties, point the downspouts away, test the floor drain and lift what matters off the floor.
- 45 min to 1½ hr
- 6 steps
- Every step animated
6 steps
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Pour a bucket of water into the pit slowly. The pump should start, empty it and stop.
Keep your hands out of the pit, and dry when you touch its plug.Outside, find the end of its pipe. It should be clear, not frozen, and point away from the house.
Make sure each downspout has an extension that carries the water well away from the wall.
Move anything off the floor drain and pour a bucket of water in. It should drain away fast.
Put boxes, papers and anything you care about on shelves or blocks, off the floor.
The pump doesn't start, runs without emptying the pit, or water comes up through the floor drain: ask Handyman for a plumber now.
What you need
- A bucket
- Downspout extensions, if any are missing
- Shelves or blocks
Call a pro if
- The sump pump doesn't start or empty the pit
- Water comes up through the floor drain
- Water comes in through the walls
Handyman says: Pump won't run? I'll find a plumber.
Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.
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