Across the United States, many homes deal with underground water issues, especially in areas with high water tables or frequent heavy rains. That’s when sump pumps came into the picture: to handle these challenges. And they became hot commodities, especially following the 1987 amendment to the Federal Clean Water Act, which focused on stormwater management.
These pumps play a tremendous role in keeping basements and crawlspaces dry and protecting against water damage. But like any mechanical system, they can fail, often at the worst times. And the next time you see it, you’re facing pricey repairs.
Understanding the main causes of sump pump failure and how to prevent them is a must to avoid these issues. If you’re in Charlotte and need sump pump repairs, our Dependaworthy Benjamin Franklin plumbers are here for you.
What Exactly Is a Sump Pump?
Basically, a sump pump is a device installed in a sump pit (a basin in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace). When water seeps into the pit, the sump pump channels it away from the home’s foundation through a discharge pipe. This reduces the risk of flood.
Homes in flood-prone regions, areas with high water tables, or neighborhoods with sewage backups often have these to manage water invasion.
How Sump Pumps Work
A sump pump works through a simple but sound mechanism. The pump removes water from the sump pit and directs it away from the house through a discharge pipe (all powered by an electric motor).
A float switch, which detects the pit’s water level, controls the pump’s operation. As water fills the pit and reaches a certain level, the float switch triggers the pump to turn on and start draining. When the water level lowers, the float switch shuts down the pump, stopping drainage.
The float switch is necessary because it keeps the pump from running dry. Otherwise, it could cause the pump to overheat and possibly fail.
Types of Sump Pumps
Sum pump comes in two main types of sump pumps: pedestal and submersible.
- Submersible Sump Pumps: These pumps sit down in the sump pit, making them quieter and more discreet. You can find these pumps commonly in residential homes, especially when there is a priority to reduce noise.
- Pedestal Sump Pumps: Sit above the pit so they’re easier to access for maintenance. They tend to have a longer lifespan, as they are less exposed to moisture. But they are a bit noisier and more expensive than submersible models.
Many sump pumps also have battery backup options, which allow them to keep working during power outages. You can imagine how valuable this feature is for storm-prone areas!
Ultimately, the choice between them depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, and noise considerations.
What Are the Common Causes of Sump Pump Failures?
Now, when it comes to sump pump failures, there are a few common culprits to watch out for:
1. Overwhelmed Sump Pump
The pump can get overwhelmed during periods of heavy rains or rapid snow melt if it’s not powerful enough for the job. Each pump has a set capacity, and if the water inflow exceeds what the pump can handle, the pit will overflow.
We’ve seen homeowners sometimes install pumps that are not powerful enough for their needs, causing the pump to struggle during extreme weather. We recommend upgrading to a higher-capacity pump or adding a secondary pump with a battery backup to avoid this issue, especially in regions of frequent intense rainstorms.
2. Drainage Issues Where Water Can’t Even Reach the Pit
In some cases, the sump pump runs, but there’s no water in the pit. This often points to a drainage issue rather than a pump malfunction.
Without a properly installed drainage system, water might not reach the pit, making the pump useless. Regularly inspect the drainage system to spot and correct any issues. This way, the water flows to the sump pit as intended.
3. Clogged Sump Pumps and Switches
Dirt, debris, and sediment can easily clog sump pumps and jam switches, making the pump go haywire. Open sump pits are particularly vulnerable to accumulating debris, creating these problems.
In this case, install an airtight cover over the sump pit and clean the pump components regularly to keep it running in proper shape.
4. Frozen or Clogged Discharge Lines
Discharge lines can freeze in cold weather or become blocked, preventing the pump from removing water as it should.
This blockage can lead to burnout if the pump continues running without being able to let out water. To prevent this, consider insulating the discharge lines or adding line protectors to keep the lines clear year-round.
5. Power Outages Causing the Pump to Stop Working
Because sump pumps rely on electricity, power outages frequently cause sump pump failure. A tripped circuit breaker or an unplugged pump can also stop it from working, putting your basement at risk during storms.
But you can help quickly address this by adding a battery backup and alarm system. This keeps the pump operational even when the primary power source fails. An alarm will also alert you to any issues, allowing you to fix the problem before water damage happens.
6. Sump Pump Running Non-Stop
A non-stop sump pump may indicate problems such as a stuck float switch, an undersized pump, or a missing check valve.
Continuous operation drives wear and tear on the device, leading to early sump pump failure.
A certified tech, like our folks at Dependaworthy Ben Franklin, can inspect your system to find the root cause and recommend adjustments to the pump size (or check valve setup, if it’s the case).
Preventive Measures for Sump Pump Failure
The good news is that you can take steps to prevent these problems. Some key preventive actions include:
a) Regular Inspections and Cleaning
Check the intake screen for debris, as a clean pump operates successfully and is less likely to clog.
b) Getting the Right Size Pump
Choose a pump that matches your home’s drainage needs. This can help it handle water flow better, especially during heavy rain.
c) Adding a Backup Power Source
A battery backup can keep your pump running during power outages, giving you peace of mind in severe weather.
d) Professional Installation and Maintenance
Get the help of a professional to install and maintain your sump pump. This can guarantee that your pump is set up correctly. Also, regular TLC keeps the pump running as good as it gets.
e) Timely Repairs
If your sump pump shows signs of wear, taking care of it early can prevent extensive damage and a hole in your pocket down the line.
Dependaworthy for Sump Pump Repair Services
Sump pumps play a key role in preventing water damage in homes, especially in areas where flooding or high water tables are common. You can keep these systems working like clockwork with consistent maintenance, proper installation, and backup power.
If you’re in Charlotte and dealing with sump pump woes, the team at Dependaworthy Benjamin Franklin is ready to help with prompt, reliable sump pump services. Our well-equipped trucks are always on standby, ready to handle sump pump emergencies and keep your home dry.