How to clean a sump pit?

Maintaining and cleaning a sump pit is critical to sump pump performance. Once the basement sump is installed, the sump pit must be cleaned and approved by the installing contractor prior to commissioning the system. In both precast sump chambers and sump pits, there is always a strong chance that the pit is filled with construction debris and debris from site works. The installation company should remove all debris from the pit or chamber and then use an Aqua Vacuum to remove any sediment or fines that may be at the bottom of the chamber. It is at this point that the operator must test that all fittings and piping are properly glued or bolted and ensure there is no debris on the bottom of the sump pumps which could cause them to stick in the case of sump pumps. . being activated.

When cleaning a sump pit or chamber it is important that you have a backup pump with a flexible hose because if you are in a live water situation and only have one discharge line running from your sump pit then you will need the pump reserve to remove water while checking main pump for wear, etc. It is also very useful to have a large catch pan, which means you can take the pumps out without messing up any fixtures or fittings if the pit or sump chamber is inside. Another very useful tool when you need to clean a sump pit is an acid to remove any lime residue that may have built up inside the chamber. Hydrochloric acid works well, but it is extremely caustic, so make sure you have protective eyewear, proper gloves, and other health and safety equipment when using this type of material. Another essential item when it comes to cleaning a pit or sump chamber is a hose connected to the water mains. This helps to remove debris, but also to quickly test the pumps once they are clean and ready for action.

When cleaning a sump pit that is used not only for groundwater, i.e. sewage, then you are in a different ballpark. The same principles apply to a clean water sump chamber, but you will need to take many additional precautions and have the proper vaccinations to deal with dirty sump systems.

It may be best not to make this a do-it-yourself job at home, but to outsource it to a professional sump maintenance company.

Remember that it is vital to maintain pumps like your boiler to keep them reliable. Cleaning the pit/sump chamber is an essential part of this process.