Annual Pump Cleaning & Inspection
Updated February 20, 2026
Pumps work in dirty environments -- sump pits full of sediment, well casings with mineral deposits, utility basins with debris. Annual cleaning removes the stuff that wears bearings, jams impellers, and blocks intake screens. It's the single biggest factor in whether your pump lasts 5 years or 15.
Overview
Pumps work in dirty environments -- sump pits full of sediment, well casings with mineral deposits, utility basins with debris. Annual cleaning removes the stuff that wears bearings, jams impellers, and blocks intake screens. It's the single biggest factor in whether your pump lasts 5 years or 15.
What to Know
Pro Tips
- Clean the sump pit when the water table is low -- typically late summer or early fall.
- A vinegar soak loosens mineral deposits on the float switch and intake screen.
- Take a photo of how the discharge pipe and check valve are oriented before disassembling. It makes reassembly easier.
- While the pump is out, check the power cord for damage, cracks, or rodent chewing.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Cleaning the pump but not the pit. Sediment in the pit gets sucked right back into the clean pump.
- Reinstalling the pump without testing it first. Run it in a bucket of water before putting it back in the pit.
- Ignoring a pump that short-cycles. It's the check valve, and every cycle shortens the motor's life.
- Using harsh chemicals to clean the pump. Vinegar and water are sufficient for mineral deposits.
When to Call a Pro
Well pump issues (low pressure, cycling, air in the lines) require a well pump specialist. Sump pumps that run continuously during dry weather may indicate a high water table issue that needs a drainage assessment.
Bottom Line
Pull the pump out once a year, clean it and the pit, check the float and check valve, and test before reinstalling. An hour of annual maintenance extends pump life by years and prevents the one failure that matters most -- the one during a storm.