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Common Sump Pump Problems and How to Resolve

Whether you live in an area prone to heavy rain or are looking to safeguard your home against water damage, a sump pump can be a worthwhile investment. A sump pump is a device that acts as your first line of defense against basement flooding. Your sump pump is usually installed in your basement or crawl space and works by draining floodwater through an external discharge pipe to keep your home dry. Over time, you might notice your sump pump isn’t performing as well as it should. Below we highlight common sump pump problems and how you can handle them to ensure continual protection against water damage. 

Before troubleshooting any sump pump problem, ensure the power is shut off and read the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent further complications. 

Wrong Size 

An improperly sized sump pump is one of the most common problems. In cases where the sump pump is too large, the pump will work harder than it has to, resulting in overall wear and tear or failure. Similarly, if your sump pump is too small for your space, it will fill too quickly and won’t be able to pump out the water efficiently. Either way, a wrong size system can have you calling the experts at Restoration 1 for a sump pump emergency resulting in water damage cleanup.

Overwhelmed

If you live in an area that experiences heavy rainfall, your sump pump may be overwhelmed by the heavy flow of water. When your sump pump is overworked, it will fail when water levels are exceedingly high. At a minimum, you should choose a sump pump that can pump 35 gallons of water per minute. Alternatively, if you reside in a wet area, a sump pump that can pump 60 gallons of water every minute is more suitable. If you suspect your pump is overwhelmed, you may want to consider upgrading your system.

Improper Installation

A high-quality sump pump is a homeowner’s most dependable weapon against basement flooding. But to ensure it can do its job correctly, it must be properly installed. It’s essential to work with a professional when having a sump pump installed in your home.  

Clogged

More common on a lidless sump pump, an open pump can become dirty over time. When dirt and debris build up in the pit where the sump pump sits, the components can become clogged. Regular sump pump maintenance by a licensed plumber is necessary to ensure you never experience a clogged pump. 

Running Nonstop

If your sump pump runs continuously, regardless of weather conditions, it will burn out and fail. There are several reasons this could be; the most common ones are a stuck switch or a broken or missing check valve. All of these issues can be fixed by a professional plumber.

Power Outages

If your home experiences constant power outages, it could be damaging your sump pump. The best solution to remedy this problem is to purchase a backup sump pump.

Sump Pump Cleanup With Restoration 1 

At Restoration 1, we are here to keep you and your property safe from several environmental challenges, especially flooding and water damage. When a sump pump disaster strikes your home, do you know what to do? We are here to handle any water damage cleanup you may need! Call the experts at Restoration 1! Our technicians will provide quick and efficient next steps as well as provide guidance on licensed plumbers who can handle sump pump repair services. Contact us at 610-890-4258.

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