Sump pump failures can be a homeowner?s worst nightmare. Even the smallest amount of flooding can cause thousands of dollars due to water damage. When it comes to sump pumps, simple proactive maintenance can save you lots of money and prevent your basement from turning into a lake. Just like any other mechanical device sump pumps are capable of failure at any given time and when you least expect it. That is unless you take the proper precautions in order to keep money in your pockets and your basement dry.
Proper maintenance of sump pump will keep you basement and home dry.
What To Look For
A Stuck Float Switch
Most sump pumps require a float switch to turn on and one of the most common problems with sump pumps is when the float switch gets stuck. A float sits in the sump pit and rises with the water and letting the pump know when to start pumping once the water level is high enough. Sometimes the float switch gets stuck either due to debris in the water or the switch getting knocked sideways in the pit. To prevent this issue it is important to check the float and sump pit for any debris regularly to be sure your pump will turn on when you need it most.
Power and Electrical Problemsa
Bad weather is usually when you need your sump pump the most. Unfortunately bad weather also causes power outages, which means your pump cannot do its job to keep your basement dry. Installing a backup generator to your sump pump can be a lifesaver in those situations where the power goes out. Some pumps have their own backup battery installed as well. Keep the sump pump on its own dedicated electrical circuit in order to prevent other appliances from the tripping the circuit breaker.
Debris and Frozen/Clogged Pipes
Debris is a major enemy of sump pumps. Not only can it cause the float switch to get stuck it can cause problems to the pump itself such as clogging the screen or impeller resulting in malfunctions. Keep a cover over the pump to avoid extra debris from falling in. It is vital to keep the discharge pipe from being clogged and/or from freezing to prevent water from flowing back into the basement. Covering the pipe with a metal grate helps avoid debris from getting clogged in the pipe.
Wrong Pump Size
Make sure to have the proper pump size. A pump that is too large will overwork itself decreasing its life span. A pump that is too small will not be capable of pumping all of the water out.
Lack of Maintenance
Check up on the sump pump every few months in order to make sure everything is in order. A lack of maintenance can result in debris building up and other preventable malfunctions from happening. Check for any signs of old age as well before the pump dies.
Improper Installationa
If the pump is still not working after checking for debris, stuck float switches, and power than it is possible that sump pump was not properly installed. For example no check valve or air hole was put on the discharge pipe. Consulting a professional will help ensure proper installation and having a sump pump that works.
Abbott?s Plumbing, Your Baltimore Plumber
Abbott?s Plumbing serves many areas in the Baltimore region. Call us today at 410-536-5700 to talk with one of our friendly staff. You can also use our online form to request an estimate.