Sump pumps are a great way to protect your home from water damage. Installing one can prevent floods in your basement and crawl space, and it also prevents water from destroying the items you have stored there.
However, if your sump pump isn’t working properly or has stopped functioning, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. A malfunctioning or broken sump pump is a major issue that can lead to expensive repairs.
Installation
If you’re living in a place that experiences heavy rains or has a high water table, installing a sump pump can help to prevent a wet basement and costly repairs. It also keeps mold, mildew, and structural damage to a minimum.
To ensure the pump remains effective and efficient, it should be inspected regularly for any obstructions. These can include debris such as dirt, gravel, or sand, which can slow down the pump and make it work harder.
If you notice your sump pump running constantly, a stuck float switch, or it’s starting to malfunction, call for a professional installation and repair service. Ideally, the pump will be installed by a licensed plumber, who knows how to install and maintain this important piece of equipment.
Maintenance
Keeping your sump pump in good working condition is an important part of keeping your basement dry. Routine maintenance can save you thousands of dollars in repairs if your pump malfunctions and floods your home during an unexpected storm.
The best way to maintain your sump pump is to perform routine checks a few times each year and at least once during the spring and fall. In addition, check your float switch for obstructions that can prevent it from working properly.
Once your sump pump has reached its lifespan, it may need to be replaced. Signs that it is about to fail include a loud operation or grinding or rattling noises when it’s running.
Regardless of the type of pump you have, it’s vital to have it inspected by a qualified plumber to ensure it is in good condition. A professional will look at the pit, check valve, backup power source, alarm, cover, and water discharge location. They will also clean the grate and ensure the pump is not sitting in any debris.
Replacement
Sump pumps are a great way to protect your home’s foundation and basement from water damage, especially during heavy rains. However, it is important to understand that a sump pump is a mechanical system that requires maintenance.
For this reason, it is recommended that you replace your sump pump every seven to 10 years. A malfunctioning sump pump will often lead to water damage in your home.
The pump removes water from a sump pit and directs it outside. This could be to a dry well, natural runoff or a municipal sewer.
A battery-operated backup sump pump is a good option for homes that are prone to power outages. These systems have a float switch that activates when there is a loss of power or the primary pump shuts down.
Troubleshooting
Sump pumps are a good investment in many homes. They divert water away from the home’s foundation during heavy rains to prevent basement flooding.
But like any electrical device, a sump pump can fail from time to time. You should examine it on a regular basis and call for repairs when necessary.
A pump that doesn’t run efficiently or ejects less water can be due to a number of issues including a stuck switch, improper electrical flow or motor burnout. This is especially common in cheaper models.
The most important thing is to have the system inspected on a regular basis so that it’s working correctly and not causing any more problems. It’s also worth having a battery backup installed to ensure that your sump pump works even if the power goes out in a storm or flood situation.
