Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist
A short printable sump pump checklist: pit and float, pump test, check valve, discharge line, alarm and backup pump.
How to use| Item | OK | Needs attention | N/A | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pit and pump | ||||
| Pit clear of debris, silt and gravel | ||||
| Pump upright and stable, intake screen clean | ||||
| Float moves freely, not catching on pit wall or cord | ||||
| Pit filled with water: pump starts and shuts off | ||||
| Run time to empty ( sec) / amps ( A) | ||||
| Pump runs quietly, no grinding or vibration | ||||
| Pit cover in place and secure | ||||
| Discharge | ||||
| Check valve holds, no backflow into pit | ||||
| Discharge pipe joints tight, no leaks | ||||
| Air relief / weep hole clear (where fitted) | ||||
| Outlet clear, water drains away from foundation | ||||
| Outdoor line not frozen or blocked (cold weather) | ||||
| Power, alarm and backup | ||||
| Cord and outlet OK, GFCI as required by local code | ||||
| High-water alarm tested | ||||
| Battery backup pump tested (battery date ) | ||||
| Water-powered backup: supply valve open, tested | ||||
| Pump age ( yrs) noted for replacement planning | ||||
How to use
- The sump pump template is already loaded, with pit and pump, discharge, and power, alarm and backup sections.
- Add your business name, logo and the job details, or leave them blank to fill in by hand.
- Edit, add, remove or move items and sections. The preview updates as you type.
- Press Print, or Save as PDF and choose “Save as PDF” in the print window.
- Save a draft to reuse the same checklist on your next job.
About this sump pump maintenance checklist
Use it for a sump pump service call or a homeowner check before the wet season. Record the run time and amps, test the high-water alarm and backup pump, and make sure the discharge drains away from the foundation. It pairs with the plumbing inspection and water heater checklists.
Follow your local code and manufacturer instructions; this is a general checklist.
Questions
How often should a sump pump be tested?
A common practice is to test it every few months and before heavy rain or snowmelt season by pouring water into the pit until the pump starts. Follow the pump manufacturer.
How do I test a sump pump?
Slowly fill the pit with water. The float should rise, the pump should start, empty the pit and shut off, and no water should flow back through the check valve.
Does a sump pump need a backup?
A battery or water-powered backup pump keeps working during a power outage or if the main pump fails. Whether one is worth it depends on how wet the basement gets and what is stored there.