A sump pump is an essential tool that helps prevent water damage to a home’s basement or crawlspace. It works by collecting excess water in a sump basin and then pumping it out of the home. However, like any other mechanical device, sump pumps are prone to failure, especially when they are not maintained properly.
This article will highlight some of the most common sump pump problems and how to fix them.
- The Pump won’t Start
A sump pump that won’t start can be caused by a variety of issues such as a tripped circuit breaker, a stuck or faulty float switch, or a malfunctioning motor. To fix this issue, check the circuit breaker, inspect the float switch for debris, and ensure the motor is functioning properly.
- Power Failure
Because sump pumps run on electricity, a power outage can render them useless. A sump pump that is connected to an outlet in your home will not work during a power outage. To avoid this, it is recommended to install a battery backup for your sump pump. This will ensure that your pump continues to work even if the power goes out.
- The Pump Runs Continuously
If the pump is running continuously, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch or an overwhelmed pump that cannot keep up with the water volume. You can fix this issue by cleaning the basin and repositioning the sump pump or installing a second pump to handle the excess water.
- Overwhelmed Sump Pump
Sometimes, a single sump pump may not be enough to handle a large volume of water pouring into the basement, especially during heavy rainfalls. To solve this, one can install a second sump pump, preferably on the opposite side of the basement or crawlspace, to provide an additional level of protection.
- The Pump Won’t Stop Running
If the pump is running continuously, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch or an overwhelmed pump that cannot keep up with the water volume. You can fix this issue by cleaning the basin and repositioning the sump pump or installing a second pump to handle the excess water.
- Float Switch Malfunction
The float switch is responsible for turning the sump pump on and off as the water level in the sump basin rises and falls. If the float switch malfunctions, the pump may not turn on or off as intended. To fix this problem, one can remove debris from the switch, make some physical adjustments, or replace the switch entirely.
- Clogged Discharge Pipe
The discharge pipe is responsible for carrying water out of the home. If it becomes clogged with debris, dirt, or ice, the sump pump will not be able to pump water out of the home. A clog can occur in the discharge line, float switch, or mechanical parts of the pump.
To solve this problem, one can clean the vent hole in the discharge pipe and remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated. To fix this issue, check and clear any clogs in the discharge line, float switch, or mechanical parts.
- Clogged Sump Basin
The sump basin collects excess water and debris from the home. Over time, the basin may become clogged with dirt, debris, and other materials, causing the sump pump to malfunction. To fix this problem, one can clean the sump basin, remove debris, and make sure that the pump and discharge pipe are not clogged.
- Stuck Sensor
A faulty or stuck float sensor is another common cause of sump pump failure. The float sensor is responsible for triggering the sump pump to turn on and off as the water level in the pit reaches a certain point. To fix this problem, one can clean the sensor or replace it entirely.
- Failure Due to Old Age
Sump pumps have a lifespan of approximately 10 years. Over time, the pump may wear out, and its components may become damaged or corroded, leading to failure. To fix this problem, one can replace the pump entirely.
- Improper Installation
If a sump pump is not installed correctly, it may not function correctly, leading to failure. Improper installation of a sump pump can lead to several problems. One of the most common issues that can arise due to improper installation is that the pump may not be linked to a drainage system, resulting in no water in the sump pump. Additionally, an improperly installed sump pump can be noisy, vibrate excessively, and even leak water, leading to potential water damage.
Conclusion:
If a sump pump fails, it is important to first shut off the electricity in that area to avoid electric shock before troubleshooting the problem. It is also recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely when installing the sump pump to avoid issues that could lead to water damage. Finally, if a sump pump is suspected to have been installed improperly and has been ruled out for other possible causes of failure, it is important to call a professional to have it checked out.