The Major Causes of Sump Pump Failure
Posted on: 11 January 2022
Sump pits are found in crawl spaces or basements to collect excess water seeping from the ground or flowing in from outside rains or floods. And that's where a sump pump comes in handy. It detects the increasing water level in the basin and empties the water away from your home through a discharge pump.
There are several types of sump pumps, and while each one works differently, staying on top of maintenance can help you in dire situations because water can cause untold damages. Check out these causes of sump pump failure and what to do in an emergency situation.
Age
On average, a sump pump should last about ten years. If you notice your pump straining, try to remember how long you have used it. If you found it in your home when you moved in, it's probably past its normal lifespan. As mentioned, water damage can be costly, so you're better off replacing yours if it's an older sump pump.
Sometimes even a replacement pump may struggle to pump water out of your basement. So, you may need to buy another to supplement it or buy a more powerful pump.
Also, remember a small pump can be as efficient as a big one. Sometimes your pump may be too big for the job, which makes it work harder, reducing its lifespan as time passes. It may also be too small to remove water efficiently. Always consult your plumber to get the right size when if you want to replace or install a sump pump.
Clogging and Switch Problems
The following factors can cause clogging in your unit:
- The pump accumulates dirt, and the motor becomes blocked from excess silt
- The switch can stop working when the water rises
- Some models may stop working when the switch goes on and off because of fluctuating water levels in the pit
Experts advise against setting your sump pit on gravel or dirt. Over time, the debris or dirt enters your pipe and may interfere with the switch or the float arm. So, only enlist certified plumbing experts to get the best out of your sump pump. And remember to schedule regular maintenance appointments to keep your unit in top shape.
Power Failure
Power failure usually comes at the most inopportune moment –– during bad weather storms. The generator pump won't work without power, leaving you with a flooded home.
You need always to have a backup battery or generator to avoid such complications. If the problem isn't with your sump pump, a manually activated generator will be a good solution before your plumber arrives to inspect your unit.
Remember that some pumps may fail due to power surges. You can have a service entrance protection component installed to protect your unit in such circumstances. But avoid performing any repairs or tune-ups if you don't know what to do. Instead, reach out to a plumbing professional if you have any issues with your sump pump.
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