Sump pumps help prevent flooding and water damage during storms. They can also be beneficial for crawl spaces.
A top-rated pro in your area can install a sump pump for you and ensure that it’s properly hooked up to the home’s plumbing and electrical systems. This can save you money in the long run.
Clogged Tubing
A sump pump protects your basement or other ground-level floor from flooding and water damage. It consists of a motor unit that pumps water into a basin below the ground and discharges it far away from your home.
Often, a sump pump’s drain line can become clogged, leading to a buildup of debris or an inability to operate properly. A professional plumber can use a pipe snake to clear the clog.
Clogged drains can also be a sign of bigger problems. It may be an indication of an issue with the sewer line or other areas within your home. Simple clogs can usually be cleared with plunging or using a plumbing snake, but a problem with the sewer line will require a more extensive excavation and repair job.
If your basement or crawl space is prone to flooding or standing water, a sump pump installation can be a minimal investment that saves you money and hassle in the long run. Contact us today for a free quote.
Battery Failure
A sump pump impedes basement flooding and prevents damage to your home by drawing moisture away from the foundation. It’s like a little robot standing by, ready to keep your basement dry. It is installed in the lowest point in your basement or crawl space in a sump pit.
Once the plumber has dug the pit, he or she will install the pump and connect it to the discharge line and power source. The plumber will also ensure that the discharge pipe is clear of any obstructions. A common problem is clogs in the discharge line, which may occur from debris and even freezing temperatures. Regular monitoring will prevent this from happening.
While a sump pump with battery backup is an excellent way to protect your home from water damage, it’s not foolproof. A power outage or other problem could cause the battery to fail. If you’re concerned about this possibility, you should consider purchasing flood insurance.
Clogged Catch Basin
If your sump pump is clogged and working, but it’s not expel water out of your basement, there could be a problem with the discharge line. This pipe extends from the pump and is covered with a grate or screen to prevent blockages. If this grate is blocked, your sump won’t be able to send floodwaters away from your home and it may run non-stop or not work at all.
Check both ends of the discharge line to make sure it is free of foreign objects. Then, try pouring water into the pit until the float switch rises and triggers the pump to begin draining. Once the pit has filled, test the pump to make sure it is draining properly. Then, reattach the pump to the discharge lines and alarm and turn it back on. Be sure that the discharge pipe is open and directing water to a drainage area or sewer if allowed by local regulations.
Continuous Running
During normal operation, your sump pump draws water in through the discharge line and pushes it out down the drain pipe. However, a problem with the check valve could keep the pump from discharging and force it to continuously run throughout the day.
A clogged screen may also cause the pump to continuously run. While you can remove it and wash it off, you may also want to consider a professional inspection of the entire sump system.
The discharge line that carries the water out to the outside may become clogged with sediment or leaks over time. If this happens, the water won’t reach the outside and it will return back to the sump pit.
A continuous running sump pump is not normal and it may indicate that you have a serious plumbing issue. A professional plumber can diagnose and fix the problem before it causes extensive damage to your home. They can also install a new sump pump, saving you money in the long run.
