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How to Clean Your Sump Pump

The sump pump is an essential part of your plumbing system. It collects water and safely diverts it from your home. Without this mechanism, groundwater…

May 05, 2026
How to Clean Your Sump Pump

The sump pump is an essential part of your plumbing system. It collects water and safely diverts it from your home. Without this mechanism, groundwater could flood the foundation of your home and cause irreversible damage. Flooding in your home is dangerous and costly. It could cause the growth of molds and mildew in the walls of your home, slowly deteriorating your property and potentially causing respiratory issues. By cleaning it regularly, you could keep your sump pump working properly. We’ll share a few tips and tricks to making sure your sump pump is well maintained and clean. If you’d like to invest in a sump pump cleaning by our team, get in touch with us by phone or online at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. 

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

How to Clean Your Sump Pump

Disconnect Your Sump Pump from the Power Source
This is a pretty quick and easy step. Simply unplug your sump pump from a basement outlet or wherever its power source is located. You could also switch off the circuit supply power to the pump directly from the breaker. This will ensure your safety. If you’re unsure about where the power source is, give us a call at Mr. Rooter Plumber and we’ll be glad to assist you.

Make Sure Your Water Is Tued Off
As an extra precautionary step, tu off the water supply in your home. You’ll want to make sure that water will not pump through the system while you are trying to clean it. This also means to avoid trying to clean the pump on rainy days. If you can’t tu off the water, make sure no one is using fixtures while you’re working on the pump. 

Cover the Sump Pump with Plastic to Prevent Spills
The pump may be covered in mud and dirt. It will help if you are dressed to get into a bit of a mess. First, you’ll have to remove the pump from the pit carefully. It may have sludge and dirt caked all over it. In order to clean it thoroughly, you may need to carry it safely outside. Wrapping the pump in a plastic sheet can help to prevent the mess from getting everywhere.

Can I Pour Vinegar into My Sump Pump?
If you’re looking for a natural cleaning product to use, vinegar can be a great alteative. You’ll need to make a mixture of vinegar and water. To clean the dirt and debris from your pump, pour the mixture into your pump and let it sit in. There are definitely precautions to take if you are trying this method for the first time. Make sure to give us a call at Mr. Rooter Plumbing for further details and assistance to clean your sump pump. 

Connect The Pump Again
Your newly cleaned pump should be sparkling clean and good to go. Connect the pump back to all of the parts. Plug back into the power source. If you would like to get your sump pump checked, schedule an appointment with our experienced plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing today!
 

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