Tag Archives: sump pump issues

Jan '25

How to Identify Sump Pump Problems Before They Become Serious

Sump pump problems, like other plumbing issues in your home, are almost unavoidable. But unlike other plumbing issues, Bigham and Associates says, a failed sump pump, if not detected on time, will almost always result in a flooding disaster in your home.

Why is that?

Since sump pumps run themselves, most homeowners don’t see the need to inspect the sump pump to know its condition. As a result, when their sump pump malfunctions, homeowners don’t know that the system is out of order.

This is a major cause of basement flooding in homes where there is a sump pump installed. The mere presence of a sump pump in a home does not guarantee that the house will always be protected from basement flooding.

To keep your home safe from basement flooding, your sump pump must be in good condition at all times. How do you ensure that? You must know the early warning signs that your sump pump is in trouble. We explain those warning signs below.

Early warning signs that your sump pump needs urgent attention

The sump pump makes strange noises

Your sump pump will make some noise whenever it is working; a low humming sound that doesn’t cause discomfort to the people inside the home. If your sump pump starts to make loud noises, there is a problem. The noise could be due to a broken or worn impeller. It could also be because of a damaged motor. If you have this problem, you should get a plumber to repair or replace the sump pump.

The sump pump vibrates excessively

The impeller is a propeller-like device inside the pump that allows it to suck water out of the basin. If there is a problem with the impeller, your sump pump will vibrate excessively or even wobble and bum around every time it is on if this problem is not fixed at once your sump pump will be damaged beyond repair.

The sump pump is rusty

Although sump pumps are constantly exposed to water, this is not the primary reason why a sump pump rusts. Bacteria and corroded batteries are the main reasons why the sump pump may start to rust. Interactions between the iron and bacteria inside water can lead the sump pump to become discolored and eventually rust unless the appliance is properly maintained.

Sump pump cycles frequently

This is mostly an installation problem; perhaps the sump basin is too small for the volume of water entering the basement. Consequently, the sump pit fills up too quickly, forcing your sump pump to power on and off at very short intervals. Frequent on/off cycling will overwork your sump pump and this can eventually cause the motor to fail.

The sump pump doesn’t switch off

The two possible reasons why a sump pump runs for long periods or doesn’t switch off at all are; that the sump pump is not putting out enough power or the float switch is stuck. If the sump is too small for the amount of water it has to pump or the distance it has to pump the water is too long, the sump pump will run for longer periods. If the float switch is jammed the sump pump will not power off.

The sump pump is used infrequently

This problem is not caused by the sump pump. It is a common issue in areas with very long spells of dry weather. If your sump pump goes a long time without working, the risk of all kinds of sump pump issues increases. Blockages in the discharge line or sump pump itself are a common problem in these situations. Mechanical and electrical problems can also happen.

The sump pump doesn’t switch on

This is the ultimate sump pump issue because it deprives your home of the sump pump’s service. Sump pump failure may be due to a burnt motor, wiring issues, or any of the above-mentioned problems. But one of the most common reasons why a sump pump fails is a power outage during a rainstorm or other emergency situations.

To protect your home from these problems, the first step is to test your sump pump regularly. Testing a sump pump is easy; get a five-gallon bucket, fill it with water, and empty it into the sump basin. If the sump pump is okay, it should power up and power off after the water inside the pit has been removed. Do this at least four times a year.

Secondly, you should think of installing a backup battery sump pump in your home. A backup sump pump will stand in for your primary sump pump when the primary pump is out of commission because of a power outage or other problems. To make this arrangement work, your backup sump pump should run on a battery, instead of being connected to the grid.

Lastly, you need to have your sump pump system inspected at least once a year by a qualified plumber. A good plumber will also advise you on additional steps to protect your sump pump from damage and your home from basement flooding. Most of the problems above can be avoided if you inspect your sump pump regularly and have professional maintenance.

Sep '23

The Impact of Continuous Water Flow into the Sump Pit

Water is an essential resource that is vital for our daily lives. It serves various purposes, from drinking and cooking to cleaning and bathing. However, when it comes to the continuous flow of water into the sump pit, there are several important factors to consider. Here we get into the implications of this continuous water flow and the potential consequences it may have.

The Purpose and Function of a Sump Pit

A sump pit is a basin typically located in the basement or crawl space of a building. Its primary purpose is to collect water that has accumulated due to various reasons such as groundwater, rainwater, or floods. The sump pump installed in the sump pit then pumps this water away from the building to prevent flood damage in your home. It plays a crucial role in maintaining a dry and safe environment.

The Benefits of Continuous Water Flow

Continuous water flow into the sump pit can offer several benefits. One significant advantage is ensuring that the sump pump stays lubricated. The constant presence of water in the sump pit allows the pump to operate smoothly and reduces the risk of damage or malfunctions. Additionally, a continuous flow of water helps prevent the sump pit from drying out, which can cause cracks and structural issues. It also reduces the buildup of stagnant water, minimizing the likelihood of unpleasant odors and the growth of mold and bacteria.

Potential Issues Caused by Continuous Water Flow

While there are benefits to continuous water flow, it is essential to consider potential issues that can arise as well. One of the primary concerns is excessive water inflow, which can overwhelm the sump pump’s capacity. If the volume of water entering the sump pit exceeds the pump’s ability to remove it, the pit may overflow, leading to potential flooding and water damage. Additionally, continuous water flow can strain the sump pump, causing premature wear and reducing its lifespan.

Another significant issue is energy consumption. Continuous water flow requires the sump pump to operate continuously, leading to increased energy usage. This can result in higher utility bills for homeowners and commercial properties alike. It is crucial to strike a balance between maintaining an adequate flow of water for pump lubrication and reducing excessive water intake to conserve energy.

Methods to Regulate Water Flow

To address the potential issues associated with continuous water flow into the sump pit, there are several strategies that can be employed.

Sump Pit Cover

Installing a sump pit cover can help regulate water flow and prevent excessive water from entering the pit. The cover acts as a barrier, allowing only necessary water to enter while keeping out debris and reducing evaporation.

Check Valve

A check valve installed in the sump pump discharge pipe can help regulate water flow and prevent backflow. It ensures that water pumped out by the sump pump does not flow back into the pit, reducing the likelihood of overflow and flooding.

Sump Pump Maintenance

Regular maintenance of the sump pump is crucial to ensure its efficient operation and longevity. This includes cleaning the pit and pump, inspecting for any damage or wear, and testing the pump’s functionality. Proper maintenance can help prevent issues caused by continuous water flow or cause a premature replacement of the sump pump.

Water Flow Monitoring Systems

Advanced water flow monitoring systems are available that can regulate water intake into the sump pit automatically. These systems measure the water level and adjust the flow accordingly, preventing excessive water from overwhelming the pump while ensuring optimal pump lubrication.

In Conclusion

Continuous water flow into the sump pit can have both positive and negative impacts. While it helps maintain pump lubrication and prevents issues associated with stagnant water, excessive water intake can lead to flooding, increased energy consumption, and strain on the sump pump. Employing methods to regulate the water flow, such as using a sump pit cover, installing a check valve, conducting regular maintenance, or implementing water flow monitoring systems, can help mitigate these potential issues. It is crucial for homeowners and property managers to strike the right balance to ensure the efficient operation of the sump pump and the overall safety and well-being of the building.

Jun '23

Troubleshooting Guide: Common Issues with Sump Pump Systems

Sump pumps protect your home from basement flooding. They make it possible to travel or sleep without worrying that a basement flood will damage your home. A functioning sump pump means that basement floods will never take you by surprise.

But the value of your sump pump lies in its ability to do its work without the need for your direct involvement. Sump pumps automatically power on when water enters your basement and turn themselves off after that water is removed.

If the sump pump fails to do this, it will not provide any protection against flooding. However, since you are oblivious to the failure of the sump pump, you will continue to rely on it for protection. Prime Realty Property Management warns that is one of the biggest issues homeowners have with their sump pumps.

This kind of sump pump issue is usually not discovered until after a flood has damaged your home. But you can avoid problems like this if you know how to troubleshoot a sump pump to ensure it works. Troubleshooting your sump pump will give you peace of mind.

In this short guide, we explain the common issues with sump pump systems and how you can troubleshoot these problems to avoid a flooding emergency in your home.

Power outages during storms can cause your sump pump to stop working.

How to troubleshoot some common sump pump issues

Do these checks at the approach of flood season and during flood season.

Sump pump doesn’t have power

Power outages during storms can cause your sump pump to stop working. The sump pump may also lose power if someone forgets to plug it in or accidentally flips the circuit breaker. There are two things you can do to protect yourself in these situations. You can install a water alarm to let you know when the sump pump is not working. You may also install a battery-powered backup sump pump in case the main pump stops working.

Sump pump float is jammed

The float switch is responsible for switching on the sump pump when the water level in the sump pit rises and turning it off when the water level is low. If the float switch is stuck, it cannot perform this function. Pour water into the pit until you hear the pump power on to check if the float switch is functioning. Wait until the water is pumped out to see if the pump turns off automatically.

Sump pump is clogged

Before water enters your sump pit, it may have flowed over the ground and picked up debris. The debris inside the water can get inside your sump pump and clog it. A clogged sump pump will not only overwork but will not pump water adequately. Elevate your sump pump above the sump pit floor by placing it on a pedestal to prevent clogs. Create a schedule for cleaning your sump pit and sump pump.

The check valve is damaged

There is a check valve inside the discharge pipe of your sump pump. This valve prevents discharged water from flowing back into the pit. If the valve is faulty, the sump pump will run continuously because discharged water will circle back into the sump pit. If your sump pump runs continuously and the problem is not due to a jammed float switch, you may need to replace the check valve. A damaged check valve will overwork and damage your sump pump.

Discharge line is clogged

The sump pump discharge line can get clogged at its exit or freeze during winter. If either of these happens, discharged water will flow back into the sump pit instead of flowing to the discharge point. Install grates at the end of the discharge pipe to keep debris and small animals out of the discharge line. A special grated discharge line attachment will allow your discharge pipe to continue to work even when the discharge pipe is frozen.

a plumber performing sump pump maintenance.

Frequent sump pump failure could be a sign that you need a bigger and more durable sump pump.

The sump pit is too small

If the sump pit is not big enough to handle the volume of water that enters it, the sump pump will run more often than it should. That will make the sump pump more vulnerable to failure because the motor will burn out. If your sump pump runs continuously and you have determined that the problem is not due to a stuck float switch or damaged check valve, it could be that the sump pit is too small.

The sump pump is wrong for your home

You will have frequent sump pump issues if the sump pump’s capacity does not match the needs of your home. The right size of the sump pump depends on how much water you expect the sump pump to handle. The amount of rainfall your area receives and proximity to large water bodies are factors that influence sump pump size. Frequent sump pump failure could be a sign that you need a bigger and more durable sump pump.

Lastly, to make sure your sump pump system does not disappoint you when you need it most, make a plan to have the sump pump inspected on a schedule by a professional plumber.