The cost of Sump Pump Repair can vary depending on the job’s requirements. Regional pricing differences and the availability of qualified professionals can impact final costs. If your sump pump isn’t working correctly, it may cause flooding and water damage to your home. An unfunctional sump pump is especially problematic during heavy rains and storms.
If you notice that your pump is not producing any water, it is time to have the plumbing professionals at Plumbers In Delaware County PA examine the situation. We will inspect the pump to see if it is clogged or if there is any other issue with the electrical connection that is causing the pump not to operate.
One of the most common sump pump problems is a clog. Clogs are typically caused by debris or dirt entering the pump or discharge line. A clogged pump cannot turn on, operate, or drain properly. This can lead to flooding your basement, resulting in severe water damage. If you hear strange noises coming from your pump, such as rattling or gurgling, this could indicate that a clog has occurred.
If you find that your sump pump is clogged, first, you should clear away any visible debris from the basin. You should also check the discharge pipe outside to ensure it is not clogged with mud, grass, leaves, or ice. You can use a long plumber’s snake to dislodge the clog if it is.
A faulty float switch is another common problem that can cause your sump pump to malfunction. A clogged sump pump basin can trigger the pressure sensor or float activator to become stuck, preventing the pump from turning on.
If your sump pump is constantly running, it may be because it is too small for your home. In this case, it will have to run continuously, which can wear out the motor and cause overheating issues. A professional can help you determine whether to expand your sump pit, install a supplementary pump, or purchase a new unit altogether.
If your sump pump isn’t working at all, it’s likely because of a power outage or other issues with the electrical system. If this is the case, you should contact a top-rated pro near you to diagnose and repair the problem. They can also help you develop a plan for regular maintenance to protect your home from flooding in the future. Get free project estimates from local pros now. No commitment is necessary.
Corrosion is another common issue that can affect sump pumps and cause them to fail. Corrosion occurs when metals, such as aluminum and steel, come into contact with water, which creates a chemical reaction that damages the equipment and shortens its life span. This is a problem that can easily be avoided by keeping debris out of the sump pit and regularly cleaning the pump to prevent sediment and other materials from clogging it.
Over time, even corrosion-resistant sump pump parts will rust. A corroded float rod, for example, can prevent the pump from operating correctly. If your sump pump is prone to this type of damage, it’s important to periodically clean the pump by unplugging it, disconnecting it from the piping, and removing it from the pit. Once the pump is removed, you can use sandpaper to sand down the rust and then grease the rod with axle grease before returning it to the sump pit.
The sump pump’s float rises and falls with the water level in the pit, triggering the on/off switch to turn on when needed and shut off when not. This is a critical component of the sump pump’s operation, so it needs to be working properly. A faulty float can lead to the sump pump running all the time, overworking it and shortening its lifespan. To check that the float is functioning correctly, pour five gallons of water into the pit and see if the float rises with the water and turns on when necessary.
A rattling or clanging sound coming from the sump pump may be a sign that it’s time for a replacement. These types of noises can signal that the motor is getting damaged by the sediment and other material it’s constantly sucking up. If the noise is loud enough to interrupt your home’s regular activities, it’s best to schedule a professional sump pump repair immediately.
Over time, the seals and connections on a sump pump can loosen. The constant movement of water and the vibrations caused by the sump pump can wreak havoc on the equipment, making it easier for components to work loose or break. This can affect the electrical connections and may cause a power surge, which can damage the motor and lead to a failed sump pump.
It is important to check the wiring and circuit breaker of your sump pump regularly to ensure that it is working correctly. If the outlet your pump is plugged into has other devices connected to it, they can draw too much electricity and can overload the breaker. This will force your sump pump to shut on and off, which can burn out the motor over time.
Another common sign that it is time to call a plumber is when your sump pump starts making strange noises. Typically, a sump pump will make low and continuous humming sounds while it runs. However, if your pump is making loud noises, such as rattling or banging, it could indicate that the motor has stopped working and needs to be replaced.
We also recommend that you inspect the pit for dirt, debris, or objects that might be jamming the float switch, which is what turns on and off your sump pump. Taking the time to do this can save you thousands of dollars in flood damage. It is also a good idea to test the sump pump by slowly pouring a bucket of water into the pit. This will cause the sump pump to run; if it does not work, it is probably time for a sump pump repair. If you have any questions about the maintenance of your sump pump or if it is time for a replacement, contact us today.
Sump pumps are a great solution for water damage in areas of your home where the foundation is exposed. However, as with any mechanical system, your pump is vulnerable to clogs and power outages. This can lead to property damage caused by flooded basements or water backups, which are typically not covered by your homeowner’s insurance. This is why it is important to regularly check your sump pump and take preventative steps to protect your home.
During your autumn or spring home maintenance checklist, make sure the discharge piping is free of any obstructions. Clean the grate to avoid dirt accumulation, and be sure to remove any debris that may have made its way past the screen in your sump pit. Be sure to also test your sump pump by pouring five gallons of water into the basin until you feel the pressure or float switch activate.
The floating switch that activates and deactivates a sump pump is one of the most delicate parts of the device, and it can be easily jammed or broken. This can occur when debris in the sump pit makes its way into the switch or impeller. If the float is stuck in an on position, it can overflow the pit and cause flooding. A licensed plumbing contractor has the tools and experience to fix this problem before it becomes serious.
Another reason why a sump pump might be flooded is if an underground water pipe has been compromised or channeled in the wrong direction. This can lead to a perpetual cycle of flooding and can destabilize the foundation of your home. It is critical to have your sump pump inspected by a licensed plumber before the winter weather arrives.
Keeping your sump pump running properly is the best way to prevent costly repairs down the road. During your fall or spring home maintenance checklist, be sure to test your sump pump with a bucket of five gallons of water until the pressure or float switch activates. Additionally, you can add accessories to your sump pump, like a water alarm attachment, to notify you of potential issues before the flood happens.
