Best practices for manual and remote testing. Plus, how PumpSpy automates it for you!
When summer storms hit, your sump pump is your first line of defense against flooding. But here’s the thing: a sump pump is only helpful if it actually works when you need it most.
That’s why regular testing is crucial, especially in the summer months, when heavy rain and power outages can strike without warning.
Let’s break down how often to test your sump pump, how to do it manually or remotely, and how PumpSpy makes it easier than ever.
Why Summer Testing Is So Important
Summer brings:
- Sudden thunderstorms
- High humidity and groundwater levels
- Short-term power outages
- Increased basement usage (storage, laundry, living space)
With all that moisture and weather variability, your sump pump needs to be in peak working condition. And yet, many homeowners assume “no news is good news” until it’s too late.
How Often Should You Test It?
For manual testing, follow these summer best practices:
- Once a month: At minimum, test your pump monthly during storm season.
- Before a storm: If a major storm is forecasted, test your pump that day.
- After heavy rain: Check to ensure it activated properly and drained water.
- After any power outage: Especially if your pump doesn’t have a backup system.
How to Manually Test Your Sump Pump
- Locate the sump pit and remove the lid.
- Slowly pour water (about 5 gallons) into the pit until the float rises.
- Listen for the pump to turn on and watch that it empties the water.
- If nothing happens or if the pump sounds off, investigate immediately, or call a professional.
Don’t forget to check the power connection and the discharge line to make sure water is flowing freely.
The Smart Way: Remote Testing with PumpSpy
Manual testing is helpful, but it’s easy to forget!
That’s where PumpSpy’s Smart Sump Pump Monitoring System comes in.
24/7 Automated Testing
PumpSpy runs automatic diagnostic tests on your sump pump three times a week. No bucket of water required.
Instant Notifications
If anything is wrong (pump failure, high water level, power loss), your phone will immediately alert you.
WiFi-Connected Peace of Mind
You can check the health of your pump, battery backup, and water levels from anywhere with the PumpSpy app. Whether you’re at work or on vacation, you’ll know your home is safe.
Works With Any Brand
Already have a sump pump? No problem. PumpSpy’s monitoring tech works with most major brands, so you don’t need a full replacement to upgrade your protection.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Your Battery Backup
Testing your battery backup is just as important when power outages often accompany severe weather.
PumpSpy’s WiFi Battery Backup Sump Pump System includes built-in testing and monitoring for both your primary and backup pumps, so you’re covered no matter what.
A Small Habit That Saves Big
Testing your sump pump might not be on your summer to-do list, but it should be. One quick check a month could save you thousands in water damage and cleanup.
Or better yet: let PumpSpy test it for you.
With automated diagnostics, real-time alerts, and remote access from anywhere, you’ll never be caught off guard by a silent failure.
