For a lot of homes, the presence of a sump pump is essential. It is a mechanical device that has been designed to remove water from basements when it threatens the safety of a property. They can also be used to keep the foundation dry, thereby preventing further damage.
While the sump pump York, SC is designed to be durable and long-lasting, it can still develop problems over time. Let’s have a look at some of the most common sump pump issues and how to fix them.
Problem #1: The Sump Pump Won’t Turn On
Nothing is worse than being woken up in the middle of the night by a flood only to discover that your sump pump is not working. Making the situation more frustrating is if you have already had your pump checked, only to find that it won’t turn on.
There are two possible causes: either it is waterlogged or running on a dead battery.
A waterlogged pump can happen for several reasons. The first is that too much water has come into the sump pit and your unit is simply overwhelmed. Another possibility is if your pump has been buried in mud or dirt. To fix this problem, you need to drain the sump pit, remove the sediment, and clean off your sump pump.
If you are running on a dead battery, no amount of water will help you. All you need to do is check the battery and replace it if necessary. Most batteries last for around two years.
Problem #2: The Sump Pump Is Working Constantly
It is normal for a sump pump York, SC to run several times a day when there is a lot of rain, but it should not constantly be running. Otherwise, it could be in danger of excessive wear and tear or higher energy bills.
First, check the valve. Is it working properly? A valve is a mechanical device that allows a sump pump to pressurize the water in the pit and direct it outside through a pipe. If the valve is not working correctly, the sump pump will be forced to work harder.
There is also a chance that your system is more powerful than it needs to be. Be aware that there are different types of sump pumps designed for a specific job. An incorrect pump could mean additional work and a shorter lifespan, so be sure to select the right product for your needs.
A shifting foundation, cracks in the walls or floors that allow water to seep through, and an unbalanced drainage system could also be causing your unit to work overtime. While you can solve some of these issues yourself, it may be wise to call a professional if the cause is more serious.
Problem #3: The Motor Suddenly Won’t Start
Perhaps the most frustrating problem you will encounter is when your sump pump York, SC suddenly stops working. While this is often a symptom of an overall problem, there could be other reasons as well.
Did the motor stop working immediately after turning on the switch? The issue could be with the switch itself. You can replace it with one from your local hardware store. If it stopped working after it had been running for a longer period, there might be something more serious going on.
Your pump may have a clogged filter that needs to be cleaned, or you have an electrical short, which means you need to call in an electrician. You can also give your sump pump a thorough cleaning to help it last longer.
Problem #4: The Sump Pump Is Making Loud Sounds
Loud noises, such as rattles, may not indicate something wrong with your pump. It could simply be a result of the unit’s age, or there may be rocks or dirt in the pump.
Here are four common sump pump noises to watch out for:
- Humming: While it is normal for a pump to hum, it should not continually be humming. This is usually caused by the battery dying or being out of water.
- Whining: A high-pitched whining could mean the intake is clogged with dirt. Other possibilities include a blockage, low voltage, or a faulty pump.
- Rattles/Buzzes: A rattling sound is most likely due to the motor rubbing against its casing. It could also be signs of a loose belt or dirty bearings.
- Hissing: It usually indicates that the pump is not getting enough water. In some cases, it is simply due to the pump running dry. It could also be that the check valve is not fully sealing the unit and causing a backflow.
- Clanging: This is a result of the pump hitting the sides of the sump pit as it runs, and it could be caused by several things – with a shifted foundation and broken float switch being two common reasons. These are often due to a larger problem and should be dealt with immediately.
In most cases, a simple cleaning of the sump pump York, SC will typically fix the problem. Do this by removing the filter, if applicable, and using a wet/dry vacuum to clean it out. Be sure not to get your hands or any other body parts inside the unit, as it could pose a risk of electrocution.
Problem #5: The Sump Pump Is Leaking
Leakage is one of the biggest problems with any piece of machinery, and a sump pump is no exception. The causes vary from simple wear and tear and clogged pores at the top or bottom of the unit to pump failure and damaged joints.
It is not always easy to spot a leak as it can be fixed internally, but there are some signs to look for, such as a lack of adequate drainage and a change in water levels. If you suspect a leak, you can try to repair it yourself by cleaning out your sump pit (remove any debris) and inspecting the discharge line.
If it is not broken, you may be able to repair the leak yourself. But if it is damaged further down or you cannot find the source of the problem, we recommend calling an expert for extra safety.
Problem #6: The Sump Pump Can’t Handle the Job
It is a good idea to regularly test your sump pump York, SC so you know how much it can handle. If you see that the water level is getting higher than usual or if it takes too long for the system to turn on, there may be an issue.
Suppose your home is not located on a flat surface. Consider installing an automatic pump switch or water level monitor to automatically shut off the pump when it is needed. If you do not want to install a water level monitor, you can also use an alarm that will alert you when there is a problem. Or, if your unit is old, consider replacing it with a new and more powerful model. If a clogged pipe causes the problem, simply unclog it so the water can move freely again.
Problem #7: Water Overflowing from Pump
Perhaps you noticed an increase in the water level of your sump pump, and it appears to be overflowing. It is not always a bad thing, as overflow can happen when the pump is processing more water than usual.
However, if you notice too much overflow, it could mean an issue with the pump, such as a clogged pipe or damaged impeller. If the problem was sudden and recent, you should suspect a clogged pipe or a blockage in the main drain. For older sump pumps York, SC, buying a new one is likely the best option.
If you are not sure what is causing the overflow, contact a qualified professional for help. They have the tools needed to find the source of the problem and fix it quickly.
Problem #8: Your Sump Pump Is Overtaxed
A sump pump York, SC that is being used excessively may be nearing its end. You can tell if this is the case by visually inspecting the unit, checking your water levels after heavy rain, and monitoring the power source.
When it comes to replacements, you can either buy a brand-new one or try out a submersible pump. This type of unit will be submerged in the water, so it won’t need to work as hard to move the water out.
Problems like these can cause your sump pump York, SC to fail and lead to further damage. Be sure to take care of these issues as soon as possible, so your unit continues to do its job and protect your home.
Book a Sump Pump Installation Service with CrawlSpace Xperts!
Gone are the days when we envision sump pumps as a piece of equipment used by farmers. Nowadays, they are also used in homes, offices, and other establishments to prevent flooding.
If you want to install one in your home, contact our experts today! We offer reliable sump pumps York, SC installation services to protect your home from flooding and other moisture-related problems.
Call us at (803) 524-8045 to request an estimate – our courteous staff is always ready to help you out in any way possible!
