Sump Pump Repair: What to Do If Yours Isn’t Working

A functioning sump pump is vital to preventing basement flooding. If yours isn’t working or acting oddly, Plumber Tampa can help.

Before you call a plumber, unplug the pump and inspect it yourself. Make sure the inlet screen is clear and that no debris has worked its way into the sump basin. Then pour five gallons of water into the basin to verify that the float switch turns the pump on and off properly.

If your sump pump has stopped working, you should first make sure that the unit is plugged in and has power. Then, check to see if there are any objects or debris jamming the float switch or clogging the discharge line. If this is not the problem, you may need to call a sump pump repair service to look at the float switch or the motor and replace parts as needed.

You will also want to clean out your sump pump regularly to prevent clogs and other issues from developing. Unplug your pump, remove the lid from the pit or basin, and inspect it for rust, dirt, and other debris that could have built up over time. Then, empty the water and use a garden hose to flush the pipe until it is clear. You should also be sure to create weep holes in the pipe to help prevent air locking, which can stop your pump from draining properly.

Once the sump is cleaned, you should test it to ensure that it will work when you need it most. If the float switch is set properly, it should rise up when the water level reaches the float and start your pump running. Then, it should shut off when the water reaches the bottom of the basin. If this is not the case, you will need to reset the float switch and clean out the debris in the basin.

If you have a double-corded sump, make sure that the pump and float cords are separate from one another and not plugged into the same outlet. Then, plug the float cord into a different outlet than the pump cord and listen for the humming sound to indicate that your sump is working. You can then plug the pump cord back into its outlet.

For an even safer and more reliable system, you should install a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet next to your sump pump so that it will shut off the power if it ever overheats. You should also run a length of PVC pipe from the pump to your home’s exterior and make sure that it has a check valve that channels water away from (never back into) the sump.

Check the float switch.

The float switch is one of the most important parts of any sump pump. It’s what triggers the pump to start working when it fills up and then shut off when the pit is empty. You can test your float switch by slowly pouring water into the basin. If the float rises with the water and triggers the pump to turn on, then it’s functioning properly.

If it doesn’t, then there could be a problem with the switch or the pump itself. It may be time to replace it.

It’s also possible that the pump is the wrong size for your home. A sump pump that is too small will run constantly, cycling up and down, which can quickly wear out the motor and lead to overheating problems. A professional can help you determine if your sump pump is the right size for your home and ensure it is always working as it should.

It’s also a good idea to clean your sump pit regularly. This can help prevent clogs from building up in the pumping mechanism. Debris can get jammed in the pump and cause it to keep running even when the pit is empty. In some cases, a stuck float switch can cause the pump to continue to operate long after the sump basin has filled up, leading to flooding and serious damage to your home. If you find any debris in your sump pit, remove it and then drain the pump out to make sure all the clogs are removed. You can use WD-40 or other degreasers to loosen up any gunk that has been building up. You can also check the discharge pipe to make sure it’s clear and not clogged with rocks or other debris.

Inspect the impeller.

If the pump is humming but won’t eject water, the impeller (the fan-like rotor at the bottom of the pump that moves the water) may be loose or clogged. Unplug the pump and remove its screen to check for blockages. If it’s clogged, use a garden hose or a plumbing snake to dislodge the debris and rinse away the remaining material. If the impeller is fine but you’re hearing loud rattling noises when it activates, your discharge pipe may be loose or blocked by mud and debris. If you’re worried about damaging your sump pump by handling the clog yourself, call in a professional to help.

A plugged-in pump should have power, so make sure that the wired plug is securely attached and the receptacle is working properly. Test the outlet with a multimeter to ensure it gives off voltage. If it doesn’t, it’s time to replace the receptacle or plug. If the pump is plugged into an extension cord, switch to a dedicated outlet or consider having a professional install a new receptacle.

Float switches are designed to turn on when the water level rises and off when the level drops, but they can sometimes get stuck in between. Manually lift the switch to see if it turns on, and then inspect the pit for objects that could be jamming the float switch and preventing it from engaging.

A sump pump can be a valuable asset in keeping your home dry, but it’s important to maintain this system regularly to keep it running at peak efficiency. By following these tips, you can help prevent expensive sump pump repairs and potential flood damage. If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, a trusted plumber can do them quickly and correctly.

Check the casing.

A sump pump works to push water away from the home, but it can be compromised by a number of problems. It could have been improperly installed, or it may not be able to discharge the water because of a blockage. If you notice that your sump pump is unable to function correctly, it is time to contact a plumber for a service visit.

The pump casing of a sump pump is screened to keep out debris, but it can still become blocked by debris over time. This can lead to a failure of the pump, so it is important to check it regularly for clogs. A clog can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirt or gravel entering the pit, and it is often a sign that it is time to replace the pump.

In order to properly check the pump casing, you will need to remove it from the basin. Once you have done this, you can clean the weep hole and remove the impeller to inspect it. You should also clean the discharge pipe and ensure that it is directing water far enough away from your home to prevent damage.

A sump pump can be a great investment for your home. It can protect you from structural damage, and it can help keep mold, wood rot, and pests at bay. However, if you notice that your sump pump is not working properly, it is important to call for a service visit right away. With prompt service, professional technicians can diagnose and fix the problem before it worsens. Having your sump pump serviced on a regular basis can keep it functioning for the life of your home. We offer fair and transparent pricing, so you will know exactly what to expect. We also have a convenient Remote Assist offering that allows you to get support from the comfort of your home. Click here to learn more.