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How to Check Your Sump Pump

January 7, 2025
You expect your sump pump to work reliably when you need it. But many homeowners who feel the same way find themselves surprised when they find their basements filled with water (and their sump pumps in need of replacement).
Spring is near, which means that your sump pump may need to take on some extra work as ice thaws and rain rolls in. Make sure your sump pump is working today, or get it replaced long before you have to shell out money to pump out the water and replace valuables. Find out how to check your sump pump in the guide below, and call our team for more information about sump pumps in Twin Falls, ID.

The Steps of a Sump Pump Test
Overall, checking a sump pump is not too difficult. First, you need to inspect the entire system for minor issues that may come up here and there. Then, you’ll have to do a simple test. We recommend taking this on with great detail before spring (when flooding is more common) and about every three months. If your home is prone to frequent flooding, you may want to check the pump more frequently.
1.    Check the drains. First, check the drain that leads to the outdoors. If there is an outlet that leads to the yard, clear it of any debris you can see. If buildup in the drain seems extreme, call in a plumber.
2.    Clean the pump. You may have to physically remove the pump to check for debris at the beginning of the outlet to the yard.
3.    Inspect the pump. Call a plumber if you notice cracks in the case or anything else that seems alarming.
4.    Fill up the pit. Pour a bucket of water into the pit and make sure that water drains away properly. Of course, if you notice problems, you should call in an expert.

What You Can Fix On Your Own
Often, a broken sump pump is in need of replacement. However, there are some small issues you may be able to take care of. Cleaning out the drain is one such adjustment. If a sump pump has completely shut off, you should always try to reset circuit breaker before jumping to conclusions.During operation, the sump pump may vibrate, causing the pump to tip over or tilt to the side. If anything looks off, you can make adjustments to the sump pump and test operation afterwards.

When to Call for Sump Pump Replacement
You may be able to find information about the life expectancy for a particular product so that you have a general guideline of when you’ll need to replace it. Some submersible sump pumps (the type that sits directly in the pit) are estimated to last about 10-15 years, while pedestal pumps, which are perched above the pit, could last a decade more.
In certain areas, sump pumps are used more than in others. If your pump runs nearly all day, it may need to be replaced much sooner than one that runs only once or twice a year. Regular testing can give you an idea of the state of your pump, and you can always contact a plumber with any questions.

Call Evans Plumbing Inc today for sump pump services in Twin Falls, ID from friendly local plumbers.

How to Check Your Sump Pump
By 7011748352 February 20, 2025
When winter hits Hailey, Idaho, your furnace works overtime to keep your home warm and comfortable. But did you know that one of the easiest ways to maintain your heating system’s efficiency is by regularly changing the furnace filter? Many homeowners overlook this simple task, leading to increased energy costs, poor indoor air quality, and potential damage to their HVAC system. So, how often should you change your furnace filter? Let’s break it down. Why Changing Your Furnace Filter Matters Your furnace filter traps dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating through your home. A clean filter ensures proper airflow, reduces strain on your furnace, and improves indoor air quality. Neglecting this maintenance step can cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. How Often Should You Change It? The answer depends on several factors, including filter type, household conditions, and how often you use your furnace. Here’s a general guideline: Basic fiberglass filters: Every 30 days Pleated filters: Every 60–90 days High-efficiency HEPA filters: Every 6–12 months Homes with pets: Every 30–60 days Allergy sufferers: Every 30 days Heavy furnace usage (winter months): Every 30–45 days If your home has multiple occupants, pets, or someone with allergies, it’s best to check the filter monthly and replace it as needed. Signs Your Furnace Filter Needs Replacing Even if you follow a set schedule, your furnace may give you signals that the filter needs to be changed sooner. Look for these signs: Increased Dust in Your Home – If you notice more dust accumulating, your filter may be too clogged to trap particles efficiently. Reduced Airflow – A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system less effective at heating your home. Higher Energy Bills – If your heating costs are rising without a temperature change, a dirty filter may be making your furnace work harder. Strange Furnace Noises – A struggling system may produce unusual sounds, signaling it’s time for maintenance. Visible Dirt and Debris on the Filter – If your filter looks clogged, it's time to replace it. The Bottom Line Regularly replacing your furnace filter is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your heating system’s efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Not only will this improve your indoor air quality, but it will also keep your energy bills in check and prevent costly repairs. Need HVAC Maintenance? Call the Experts! If you’re unsure about your furnace’s condition or need professional maintenance, Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical is here to help.
By 7011748352 February 20, 2025
As temperatures drop in Hailey, Idaho, your furnace is working hard to keep your home warm. But what happens when you start hearing strange noises coming from your heating system? Unusual furnace sounds can be an early warning sign of trouble, and ignoring them could lead to costly repairs down the road. Here are some common furnace noises and what they might mean. 1. Banging or Booming If you hear a loud banging or booming sound when your furnace kicks on, it could indicate a delayed ignition problem. This occurs when gas builds up before igniting, causing a small explosion. If left unchecked, this issue can damage your furnace’s heat exchanger, leading to costly repairs or even system failure. Possible Causes: Dirty burners preventing proper ignition Low gas pressure Ignition system malfunction What to Do: Turn off your furnace and call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean the burners or adjust the gas pressure. 2. Squealing or Screeching High-pitched squealing or screeching noises are often linked to issues with the blower motor or fan belt. Over time, belts can become loose or worn, and motor bearings may need lubrication. Possible Causes: Worn-out or loose blower belt Motor bearings in need of lubrication Malfunctioning blower motor What to Do: Schedule a furnace inspection to replace belts, lubricate motor bearings, and ensure everything is running smoothly. 3. Rattling or Vibrating A rattling or vibrating furnace could be a sign of loose components or ductwork. If you hear metal-on-metal sounds, it may indicate a more serious mechanical issue. Possible Causes: Loose screws or panels Unsecured ductwork Failing blower motor What to Do: Check for loose screws and panels and tighten them if necessary. If the rattling persists, have an HVAC technician inspect your system. 4. Clicking Sounds While it’s normal to hear some clicking when your furnace turns on and off, excessive clicking could be a sign of a failing ignition system or a faulty relay. Possible Causes: Faulty ignition system Defective flame sensor Electrical component issues What to Do: If the clicking is persistent or your furnace struggles to ignite, call a professional for a thorough inspection. 5. Whistling or Hissing A whistling or hissing noise often indicates an airflow restriction or a gas leak. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off your furnace immediately and evacuate your home. Possible Causes: Dirty or clogged air filter Leaky ductwork Gas leak (if accompanied by a sulfur smell) What to Do: Replace your air filter and check for any visible duct leaks. If you smell gas, leave your home and call your gas provider or HVAC professional immediately. When to Call a Professional If your furnace is making strange noises that persist after simple troubleshooting, don’t ignore the warning signs. At Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we provide expert furnace repairs and maintenance to keep your system running safely and efficiently.
By 7011748352 February 20, 2025
When the temperatures drop in Hailey, Idaho, the last thing you want is for your furnace to start blowing cold air. A malfunctioning furnace can quickly turn your cozy home into an icebox, making it crucial to identify and address the issue as soon as possible. Here are some common reasons why your furnace might be blowing cold air and what you can do about it. 1. Your Thermostat Settings Need Adjustment Before assuming the worst, check your thermostat settings. Ensure it is set to "Heat" and not "Fan" or "Cool." If the fan is set to "On," it will blow air continuously, even when the furnace isn't actively heating. Switching the fan to "Auto" allows it to only run when heat is being produced. 2. Your Furnace Filter is Clogged A dirty or clogged furnace filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat. When this happens, your furnace's safety mechanism may shut down the burners, allowing only cold air to circulate. Check your filter and replace it if it's dirty. 3. The Pilot Light is Out If you have an older gas furnace, a blown-out pilot light could be the reason for the lack of heat. Check to see if the pilot light is lit. If it's out, relighting it might solve the problem. However, if it continues to go out, there may be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply that requires professional assistance. 4. Your Furnace is Overheating An overheating furnace may shut itself down as a safety precaution, leaving only the blower running, which results in cold air blowing through the vents. Common causes of overheating include a clogged filter, blocked vents, or mechanical failures. If replacing the filter doesn't help, it's time to call in an HVAC professional. 5. There’s a Problem with the Gas Supply If your furnace isn't getting enough gas, it won't be able to produce heat. Check other gas appliances in your home to see if they're working properly. If there's an issue with your gas supply, contact your utility company or a licensed HVAC technician. 6. Your Ductwork Has Leaks Leaks in your ductwork can allow warm air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, leaving you with cold air blowing from your vents. If you suspect ductwork issues, an HVAC professional can inspect and seal any leaks to restore efficiency. When to Call a Professional If you've checked your thermostat, changed your filter, and your furnace is still blowing cold air, it's time to call the experts. At Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we provide professional furnace repair services to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.
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