How to Clean out a Sump Pit

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Ensure that all systems that drain to the pit are out of use and locked.

   For example, if your companion starts to wash clothes while the pump is off, you will have a flood.
2. 2

   Step 2: Get adequate lighting for the project.

   Basements and utility rooms are usually too dark to see the bottom of the pit. ,,,,,, Remove these bricks. , This sludge is detergent and soap residue if you have a washer or shower draining to the sump.
   
   The odor could make you feel nauseous. ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Disconnect power to the sump pump.

4. 4

   Step 4: Disconnect pump motor from discharge pipe and lift out of pit.

5. 5

   Step 5: Place pump in a bucket or wrap in heavy plastic so that you can carry it outdoors without dripping sludge on your carpet or flooring.

6. 6

   Step 6: Scrape and wash sludge and crud off exterior of pump.

7. 7

   Step 7: Using a wet-vac/shop-vac

8. 8

   Step 8: remove all remaining water from pit.

9. 9

   Step 9: You will probably find a couple of bricks in the bottom of the pit.

10. 10

    Step 10: Scrape and scoop out debris and sludge.

11. 11

    Step 11: When you are satisfied that the pit is relatively clean

12. 12

    Step 12: replace bricks

13. 13

    Step 13: reconnect pump to discharge

14. 14

    Step 14: reconnect power to pump and restore drainage systems to sump.

Detailed Guide

About the Author