A sump pump protects your home from basement flooding but won’t do much good if it’s not working right. That’s why it’s important to test your sump pump regularly — especially before a big storm or thaw. Here’s how to test your sump pump, with and without water, and how to know if it’s time for a replacement.

Why It’s Important to Test Your Sump Pump

A sump pump is crucial for stopping water from building up in your basement or crawl space. Testing your sump pump helps you catch small issues before they become major problems. This gives you a chance to fix your sump pump before it fails completely. If you wait too long and your system fails, you could experience lots a ton of problems the next time it rains, such as:

• Mold growth
• Property and appliance damage
• Structural damage to floors, walls, joists, and the foundation

When Should You Test Your Sump Pump?

Check your sump pump for problems at least a few times a year. Scheduling regular checks in early spring and early fall is ideal because you can make sure your pump is ready for the changing seasons. You may also want to test your sump pump:

• Before heavy rain or rapid snowmelt
• After long periods of dry weather or pump inactivity
• Following power outages or electrical work, especially if you were using your battery backup

Signs of Sump Pump Issues

Do you know what to look for when checking a sump pump? Here are a few common signs of sump pump issues to keep an eye out for:

• Loud or unusual noises during operation
• The pump runs constantly, even when it’s dry
• No water drains when the pump runs
• Visible rust or clogging
• The float switch has worn out or works intermittently
• The electrical cord is hanging loosely and interfering with the float switch 

If you notice any of these, your sump pump may not be working correctly.

What You’ll Need to Test a Sump Pump

You just need a few basic supplies to check if your sump pump is working:

• Bucket of water or garden hose
• Flashlight
• Towels (just in case)

How to Test a Sump Pump with Water

Here’s how to check if your sump pump works:

Step 1: Locate the Sump Pit and Pump

First, find the sump pump. It’s usually located in the lowest part of your basement. Remove the cover so you can access it better. Do a quick visual inspection to look for clogs, backups, or other damage. A flashlight may be needed to inspect it effectively.

Step 2: Check the Power Source

Make sure the pump is plugged into a working GFCI outlet. If your sump pump has a backup battery, ensure it's charged. Avoid plugging lamps or other things into the outlet that could trip a breaker and prevent the pump from operating.

Step 3: Slowly Pour in Water to Raise the Float

Slowly pour your bucket of water into the pit (or turn on your garden hose). Your goal is to get the float switch to rise.

Step 4: Watch for Activation and Drainage

When the float rises high enough, the pump should turn on. Watch to see if:

• The motor turns on quickly
• Water drains rapidly through the discharge pipe
• The pump turns off automatically when most of the water is gone

If the pump doesn’t activate, drains slowly, or fails to shut off, it may be time for a replacement.

Method 2 – How to Test a Sump Pump Without Water

Can’t use water? Here’s how to test a sump pump without water:

Manually Lift the Float Switch

Reach into the pit and gently lift the float switch until you hear the motor start. Only do this for a few seconds — never let the sump pump run dry.

If the pump doesn’t activate or makes strange noises, you may have an issue with your pump.

What to Do If the Sump Pump Doesn’t Work

If you’ve tested your sump pump and it didn’t work right, there are a few things you can try to resolve the issue:

• Check for a tripped breaker or GFCI outlet
• Inspect the float switch for tangles or debris
• Check the intake screen on the bottom to be sure debris isn’t blocking it. Unfortunately, you’ll have to do this by feel.
• Ensure the discharge line isn’t frozen or clogged 

If it still won’t activate, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Not only can professionals find the root cause of why your sump pump ’s not isn’t working, but they can also install a new sump pump if it comes down to it.

When to Replace Your Sump Pump

Most sump pumps last around seven years. It might be time to replace yours if:

• The pump won’t turn on or runs constantly
• It’s noisy or vibrates excessively
• Is hot to the touch
• You notice frequent flooding or water backup

Explore installation tips if you’re considering a new unit.

Is My Sump Pump Working? Next Steps

Now that you know how to check if your sump pump is working, remember to do so at least twice a year. Whether you’re using water or manually lifting the float, the key is making sure your sump pump activates and drains properly.

If you're unsure about the results or notice sump pump problems, don’t wait. Letting a sump pump malfunction can lead to flooding and water damage. Contact the experts at Roto-Rooter for professional sump pump inspection, maintenance, or replacement.