Garage, Storm & Foundation Sump Pit Cleaning with Pump Services

To check if your pump is working, slowly pour water into the sump pit until the float activates the pump. The pump should start automatically and evacuate the water quickly within seconds. If the pump doesn't start, makes unusual noises (grinding, clicking), or runs continuously without stopping, contact us immediately at 514-829-7514. We recommend testing your pump every 3-4 months and before rainy season.

We recommend professional cleaning at least once a year, with a schedule based on type:

Garage Sump Pits: Spring cleaning (after road salt and sand season)
Storm Sump Pits: Fall cleaning (after leaf fall) and spring inspection
Foundation Sump Pits: Spring cleaning (before heavy rains and snowmelt)

If your property experiences heavy water accumulation, recent construction, or visible debris buildup, twice-yearly cleaning is preferable.

Sump Pump: Handles clear groundwater from foundation drainage. It pumps water from your sump pit to outside your property (usually to storm sewer or yard drainage).

Ejector Pump: Handles wastewater (from toilets, sinks, washers) in basement bathrooms or laundry rooms. It grinds solid waste and pumps it to your main sewer line.

They are not interchangeable - using the wrong pump type can cause system failure and property damage.

A quality pump typically lasts 7 to 10 years with proper maintenance and regular sump pit cleaning. Signs it's time to replace include: age over 7 years, excessive noise, irregular operation, multiple repairs already needed, visible rust, increased power consumption, or too-frequent on/off cycling.

Yes, we strongly recommend a backup pump for foundation sump pits - particularly in Montreal's climate where storms often cause power outages. A battery-powered backup pump automatically takes over if your main pump fails or loses power.

For garage and storm sump pits, a backup pump isn't usually necessary unless you have critical equipment or finished spaces at risk.

Immediate steps:

1. Check that the pump is working - listen to hear if it's running
2. Make sure the discharge line isn't frozen or blocked (especially in winter)
3. Check the check valve - it may be stuck or failing
4. For storm/garage sump pits: Clear any visible debris from inlet grates
5. For foundation sump pits: Divert water away from foundation if possible (temporarily redirect gutters)
6. Call us immediately at 514-829-7514 for 24/7 emergency service

Yes, it's normal to have water in your foundation sump pit. The sump pit is designed to collect groundwater from the French drain and natural infiltration. The level varies according to season, recent rainfall, and the water table in your area.

What is NOT normal: A permanently empty sump pit, one that overflows, a pump that runs constantly, or water entering rapidly without recent rain.

Yes, we have specialized equipment and techniques for winter sump pit maintenance. Frozen discharge lines, ice-filled sump pits and freeze-damaged pumps are common Montreal winter problems we handle regularly.

Prevention tips: Insulate exposed pipes, ensure proper pipe slope, install heat tape on vulnerable sections, keep covers in place (but ventilated), and schedule fall maintenance before freeze-up.