sump pump troubleshooting

2021/05/21

An improperly sized sump pit is filled quickly with water and that constantly triggers the appliance that will empty the pit in no time. And its an issue you need to look into straight away. Read on for these common sump pump problems and their solutions. If you are not sure that the sump pump is in good working condition, or in case you are suspecting major faults, consult a sump pump specialist. Do you know what to look for if your sump pump breaks? Applying a vinegar solution through the sump pump to clean it from any debris and prevent clogs. If none of those options work, schedule an appointment with us to clean or replace your impeller and filter. While there are many types of drainage systems, all of them work on the same principle: they help keep your foundation and basement dry by channeling water into a pit. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Make sure the discharge line isnt clogged or frozen. DIY Basement Waterproofing: What Are the Disadvantages? Or it will be stuck on, meaning the sump runs all the time. Repeat this process to make sure that it is working properly. In the latter case, the float, which is responsible for switching on and off the pump, sometimes gets stuck and wont change its position, even if the water level rises. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Sump pumps have a drain trap which holds water. As with any kind of mechanical device, defective parts are also a distinct possibility simply due to wear and tear. Diagnosing a faulty valve is pretty tricky, so its best to leave this one to the pros. Power failures are common during storms, and so its important to invest in a backup generator. So its vitally important that you have an appropriate sump pump installed professionally, which is a suitable size in relation to the surface area of your basement and typical flooding levels reached. How to Increase Water Pressure in Your Home, 18 Reasons to Replace Your Sump Pump System, Buying a Sump Pump All You Need to Know, 9 Common Sump Pump Problems & How To Solve Them, Rainwater Harvesting How to Collect Rainwater, Heat Pump Tariff Launch Helps Drive UK Carbon Reduction, Check and Service Your Sump Pump For Visible and Hidden Faults, Five Rainwater Harvesting Systems For Individual Property Needs. that a check valve is installed on the discharge line, that a small air relief hole is drilled in the discharge line, in the space between the pump and the check valve, the discharge valve should be of a suitable diameter. Grated covers could also be a good preventative measure for both problems. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. When the pump shifts from its position in the basin, the float will be ineffective. Perhaps you need more horsepowers to keep your basement dry. Test your sump pump regularly: pour a few gallons of water slowly into the sump basin and check if the float switch elevates and the sump pump turns on. However, over time the sump pump might also end up developing a number of problems. Discharge lines should thus be checked from time to time to ensure there is no clogging or blockages. Hire a sump pump contractor near you to ensure that your basement (and your home) stays protected. Its great if you plan to get out of town to avoid the worst of a storm. Replacing a sump pump is probably best left to a professional to make sure that it is done properly. Plug only the pump cord back into the electrical outlet. First, identify exactly which part of the pipe is frozen. If there is no water in your sump pump pit and your system doesnt seem to be malfunctioning, it may not be connected to the drainage system in your home correctly. Make sure you get someone to check your sump pumps installation was correct. The following video shows the steps for replacing a sump pump. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Either of these two can fail and in such circumstances, the sump pump will not operate as normal. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Lack of maintenance does the exact opposite. This can lower its efficiency, or stop it from working completely. The pump should eliminate the water from the basin and turn itself off. Waterproof Basements: The Most Common Basement Waterproofing Myths, 7 Environmental Benefits of Waterproofing, The mechanical parts become clogged with dirt over time, Your float switch that turns the pump off and on can jam or freeze up with dirt. Our services include but are not limited to: Kitchens/Bathrooms: new plumbing and renovations, Clogged or Slow Moving Drains: leaks and repairs, Tankless Hot Water Heater & Sump Pump: repairs and installations, Backflow Devices: testing and installation, 14-105 Lexington Road, Waterloo, Ontario N2J 4R7, Kitchener-Waterloo - 519-886-7331Cambridge - 519-886-7331Guelph - 519-836-2543, Running Toilet Fix: Step By Step for Beginners, If you hear a humming sound, then you know that your sump pump is still working. If your drainage system is clogged, damaged, or poorly designed, water wont be drained, even though the pump is working properly. You can easily test your appliance by pouring water into the sump pit and checking if it pumps the water out from the pit. Its also worth mentioning that sump pumps could be affected by power surges. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. If youre experiencing sump pump failure and your pump is over 10 years old, you may be beyond basic troubleshooting methods. An excessive influx of water. Guide to Ground Source Heat Pump Installation, Guide to Air Source Heat Pump Installation. Often its a good idea to consult with an expert who can help you with the calculation based on your individual needs. A sump pump is a very useful device installed in the lowest part of your basement or crawl space, that removes excess water around the foundation of your property and pumps it away. Most sump pumps generally last between seven and 10 years. Most sump pump models need this valve to work properly. Here's How Much It Costs to Install and Run a Sump Pump, Water In Your Sump Pump? This encourages debris to enter the pump and clog it up. Make sure you regularly check the sump basin, the discharge pipe, the drainage system, and the device itself, and do some cleaning or adjusting when needed. Your sump pump will generate a lot of heat. Also, check if the pump works only if theres water in the sump pit. We previously mentioned that an improperly-installed sump pump can keep it from pushing water out of your home. Is your sump pump not working? Its quite common for pipes to have dirt and other debris within them. If your discharge line runs in the ground, make sure its deep enough (it should run below the frost line). Its a big job, and not a DIY job for anyone who doesnt know what theyre doing. In most cases, the discharge pipe should have a built-in check valve that prevents the water from flowing back into the sump pit. If the discharge pipe is clogged or frozen, the pump will fail to remove water from your basement. If youre currently dealing with a broken air conditioner, an inefficient system, or you would like to schedule a routine, pre-season tune-up, Snell Heating and Air is here to help!

While the pump might be functioning well, there could be problems with the pipes through which the water needs to extract. However, you can add coverage for sump pump failure anytime (not the same as flood coverage!). Your switches can tangle or jam and get tangled with the system. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Safety first: If your sump pump is not working properly in a flooded basement, the first thing you should do is shut off the electricity in that area. Not only will we explain how you can fix your sump pump, but we will also show you how to check it to make sure that it is working.

If your sump pump is not working and water starts to accumulate in the pit, the alarm will sound before your basement becomes flooded. This scenario often occurs when a submersible pump, for some reason, shifts from its original position inside the sump basin. As with any piece of machinery that you rely on, its crucial to ensure that the installation is carried out correctly. A pressure sensor on the other hand, will prompt the sump pump to start working when the density of the water reaches a point where pressure has been raised to level where flooding may begin. The next step is to check whether the inlet of the device is blocked. Snell Heating and Air can handle your every plumbing need. Why You Should Have a Backup BatteryAt WaterSmart, we have over 25 years of experience in the plumbing and water softener industry; and we would love to share our expertise with you. For this reason, you should periodically test it to make sure that it is functioning well and will be working when you really need it.

That can cause the jam of the float switch or shorten the lifespan of the device. Hence, its important to check for any dislodged switches. Like many home systems, sump pumps can fall victim to debris like rocks, mud, and sticks. This is to stop gas and sewage backing up and entering your home. You should register the warranty with the manufacturer and keep your receipt anyway in case you have to file a claim later on. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. This is usually between the check valve and the pump. Most manufacturers also insist on drilling a small relief hole for air in the discharge line. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. And if you dont know what to look for, it can be a high-stress situation. Read more information about our. Need professional help with your project? Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of all cookies and the collection, sharing, and use of personal data for personalised ads. Its purpose is to stop the pump needing to overcome too much air pressure in the discharge pipe. There may be a series of reasons why a sump pump might fail. Flooding in your basement can cause a lot of damage. If not, there can be a back-flow of water that causes the pump impeller to spin backwards. Most sump pumps switch themselves on automatically by means of a float activator or a pressure sensor. In addition, the float switch that is engineered to maintain the sump pump may be stuck. The manufacturers instructions are key, and you must follow them to the letter. The plumbing system will include a one-way valve which prevents any water extracted from reentering your home. Pull the two cords apart here as well. Tips & Insights: What is the Life Cycle of Air Conditioner (AC) Evaporator Coils? VA: #2705177450 ELE GFC HVA PLB #2705135480, 8 Ordinary Sump Pump Problems & How To Fix. Maidstone From routine drain cleaning to water heater repair to emergency plumbing services, our highly-trained plumbers have seen it all! Have the battery on the back-up replaced every two to three years. However, it is not abnormal for the drainage pipes to become frozen during the winter season. Visit the Solution Center to Explore Articles. So, if your sump pump seems to be working fine, but theres water in your basement, make sure you check your drainage system. Hence you need to ensure that each and every part is doing its job properly, otherwise the entire system will fail. If your Sump Pump is lidless, over time it can build up with dirt and start to clog. Proper maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your sump pump. While you may think that everything is working properly, a sump pump service carried out by a professional is a good rule of thumb every 1-2 years to make sure that everything is working properly. As with any other system or major appliance in your home, maintenance is crucial to ensure maximum safety and efficiency. The discharge pipe should have a fully functional check valve that prevents water from flowing back to the pit. If your pit is too large and too deep, your pump will remove more water than it needs to. Pour this in high enough to make the float switch engage. Even though you might be willing to carry out preventive maintenance tasks regularly, there may be instances or faults which will need to be tackled by an expert. These could cause damage to the sump pump components such as onboard circuits and electrical parts. Take the following steps to make sure that your sump pump is free from any clogs.Step 1: Locate the exit pipe that drains the water from your sump pump to the outside of your home. Its not uncommon for the intake to the pump to become clogged. Its a good idea to protect the entire electrical system in your home from power surges by investing in a service entrance surge protection device. Inspect the discharge line and overflow valve for clogs. An electrical power outage will basically mean that the sump pump cannot operate unless there is a backup generator to fire up in such events. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Any parts failure, and it could be catastrophic! If your sump pump is constantly running or inoperable, we have created a list of ordinary types of sump pump problems and troubleshooting methods. pump sump utilitech submersible hp lowes iron cast pumps You can hear loud or strange noises while the system operates. This can cause the motor shaft to unscrew off.

You have to do it right. They can tell you if its repairable or you need toreplace it. And, knowing how much a sump pump replacement costs is crucial. As a general rule of thumb, you should perform maintenance on your sump pump at least once a year. Power outages can have an impact on them. Fortunately for homeowners like yourself, theres not a lot you have to do to keep your sump pump in tip-top shape! It does not store any personal data. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Check the float switch to make sure that it is not restricted in any way. Make sure there isnt any dirt or ice in the pipe, and its opening isnt blocked. Photos: Flickr (Fairfax County, Scott Akerman, State Farm, Jeff Covey, BRE Group). The typical cost to install a sump pump is $638 to $1,979, with an average cost of around $1,275. Sump pumps are installed in your basement and more often than not, are fitted into a bored circular trench, usually referred to as a pit. If it is, then clean it off.

If your sump pump is constantly running, there are three possible causes: For each of these reasons, its a good idea to get in touch with sump pump repair services near you to get your pump reinstalled or calculate the right size pump for your home. As an alternative, you can install a battery-powered backup sump pump (such as this one) that will prevent your basement from flooding if the electricity goes out. Here Are 5 Possible Reasons Why and What You Should Do Next. Sump pumps provide an effective way to drain water from your house. Your sump pump will run off electricity. The float switch tangles up or gets clogged in the system. This stops debris and dirt getting in and it should be safer. Most sump pumps turn on either through a pressure sensor or a float activator. Its a wise investment to back a battery back up generator for this situation. On the other hand, if the sump pump is too small it will not manage to pump out water efficiently. A properly working system can mean the difference between a cool, comfortable summer and a hot, miserable few months. When it happens, basement flooding can prove to be a massive problem. Sometimes the power failure is localized to only one specific part of your home. The most common causes are power outages, stuck switches, and clogged discharge pipes. Your sump pump cant work if a storm knocks down your power, your circuit breaker trips, or the pump gets unplugged. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. KD Group Limited If storms are frequent in your region, a backup generator can really give you peace of mind. Take a look at your sump pump's filter to see if it is clogged. Call a licensed technician prior to the spring season to ensure your sump pump is prepared for thunderstorms and rain showers. Make sure that the breaker for your sump pump hasn't been switched off. flotec pump sump submersible discontinued 4hp pumpvendor You should always keep your pipe clean, otherwise, your sump pump wont be nearly as effective as it should be (or it wont work at all). Well, while its true that you cant avoid all the issues, if you use your appliance properly and dont ignore maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your sump pump and save yourself a lot of annoyance. Sometimes, vibrations from the pump can make it lean on the edge of the pit, which stops it from functioning. One of the most common reasons that sump pumps fail is an electrical power outage. Usually, theres a so-called check valve inside the discharge pipe that prevents the water from flowing back into the pit. To prevent it, make sure you always have water in the trap. Learn more. Now you know these common sump pump problems, you know what to look out for.

Therefore, the float activator arm wont turn the switch on and the pump stays off. If its noticeably noisier than usual: try cleaning out the vent hole, resetting the check valve to discharge, and carefully warming up frozen pipes. Check out the video below: A fully functioning and properly designed basement drainage system is essential if you want your sump pump to work effectively. Copyright 2019-2022 DailyHomeSafety. But ideally, try to stick to a quarterly maintenance schedule by having a professional sump pump service carried out by a professional. Prevention is better than cure, and maintenance can help you save money and get peace of mind. As noted earlier, sump pumps operate in a way that relies on numerous parts to operate efficiently.

If youre going to install the pump yourself, make sure to follow the manufacturers instructions to the letter. Whether you need mold remediation, waterproofing or crawl space care we have the expertise to keep your space as dry as a desert. If your pump isnt turning on, this could be because of a faulty or stuck float sensor, which is the part that triggers your pump to turn on and off when the water level in the pit reaches a certain point. Sump pumps are not your typical set and forget type of device. But, what should you do if your trusty pump isnt working? But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. However as with any other mechanical system, it will still be necessary to invest in a replacement after a number of years of loyal service. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. This means your pump has to work harder to get the same water back out again. From time to time its extremely wise to have your sump pump serviced by a professional. So, as a second step, check out if the float can move freely. To prepare for this rare occurrence, we test your sump pump right after installation.

This is an issue especially common in cheaper models. You can quickly and easily perform a test on your sump pump by performing either of the following methods: This type of sump pump has a pump cord and a floating cord. As your sump pump is running, it vibrates and these vibrations can cause it to move around the sump pit. To prevent this from happening to you, it is a good idea to have a backup battery system in place for your sump pump.If you lose power, a backup battery system will still be able to power your sump pump so that you don't get flooding while your power is out.Power outages often happen during storms. This part keeps water from coming up your pump, so a licensed technician will ensure its working right correctly when you schedule an appointment. The source of the broken switch may be dirt or debris in the sump pit. In case you are not sure how to go about installing a sump pump, always speak to a qualified professional sump pump installer for help and advise. Despite the fact that you may have tried to carry out regular maintenance on your sump pump, the following are some things you should bear in mind in case you notice anything irregular such as strange noises, slow flowing water, and switching problems. There are several reasons why your sump pump may not be working. A good sump pump is invaluable for protecting your home during basement floods. When it comes to maintenance, you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer, however, there are some basic recommendations that will help you prevent failures in most cases: As an additional safety measure, you can also install a sump pump failure alarm that will help you detect failures early. Otherwise, youre risking severe water damage later down the line. Blackouts happen, especially during heavy storms when you need your sump pump the most. Step 3: Take a look inside the drain to ensure that it is free from any dirt or debris clogging it up.Step 4: Take a look at the sump pump itself. Unfortunately, most standard homeowners insurance wont cover water damage due to a faulty sump pump. If that is the case, you should consider getting a more powerful pump that suits your needs.

A missing or broken valve can see 1/3 2/3 of that water coming right back down into the pit. Sump pump owners will be all too aware that they can develop several problems, especially if they are overworked. Unfortunately,storms, losing powerand floods often go hand in hand. If you can't pour water into your pit, you can try lifting up the float to make sure that the pump comes on. Subscribe and join our community Often, the part that goes through the wall is the most prone to freezing. It also stops water evaporating back out into the basement. Bring in the pros if you dont know what's wrong with your pump. Make sure you follow the manufacturers instructions. For the sump pump to operate properly, the water will need to be directed through the discharge line, away from your property. A stuck float switch is a very common problem. 7 Simple Ways to Protect a Door From Dog Scratches, How Many Watts Does a Refrigerator Use? This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Do not enter a wet basement until the power has been disconnected because that could lead to an electric shock. If there is, remove it. Make sure you cover your pump with a lid. Investing in a sump pump is a good way to deal with basement water levels. Need Help? This movement could cause your float switch to get pushed up against the size of the pit, thus keeping it in the "off" position.

Believe it or not, there is a right-sized sump pump for your home. Some sump pumps can last longer than this, but we recommend that you replace your pump after 10 years to be safe.) In these cases, its motors may not be powerful enough to handle the flooding levels. That is why a good quality sump with appropriate capacity is critical when installing a sump pump. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". During dry spells, pour some water into the crock occasionally to keep it running and lubricated. However, make sure that you only do this for a few seconds so that you don't damage your motor. If you live in an area where floods are common, you may want to know how you can effectively seal your doors to keep water out. Dont delay as you never know when a flood could occur. Most manufacturers recommend the following: The sump pump should never be placed in dirt or gravel, as this will lead to a build up of debris which will dramatically affect the sumps operation. We are the trusted name in plumbing, heating, and air conditioning, offering an unmatched level of service at reasonable rates. Your pump should start up and begin pumping water from the pit. If this happens, your sump pump won't turn on. Having a backup system is highly recommended. You can also give the sides of the trap basin a scrub to dislodge and drain out any built-up grime. Sump pumps are usually installed in your basement or crawlspace close to the walls of your foundation. Make sure that your battery backup hasn't run out of power. E: info@kdgroup.co.uk Having a properly functioning and well maintained sump pump is very important, especially in premises that are prone to flooding and high ground water levels. It may sound obvious, but one of the first things you should do when your sump pump stops working is to check the power supply. to get access to our best updates and this helpful guide full of actionable tips and insider tricks. Most manufactures recommend or say you must install a check valve on the discharge line. There are many possible causes of sump pump problems, however, its not that difficult to find the reason behind a faulty device if you follow a step-by-step troubleshooting guide. Luckily, this is an easy fixsimply adjusting and cleaning your pump usually does the trick. It is a common problem to have a sump pump of an inappropriate size. When your pump runs non-stop or too much, especially out of season/weather conditions, its an issue. These are the most common sump pump problems and how to remedy them. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. There are a few reasons this could be. I know from experience. Your pro will weigh your capacity needs against horsepower to determine your next pump. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Out of Hours: 07752 031556, KD Group. Otherwise, you may just need a knowledgeable technician to retrofit your discharge pipe so its in a more functional (and quieter) position. If your sump pump is running continuously and doesnt turn off, theres likely either a switch or a check valve problem. They quickly eliminate excess water and prevent your basement from flooding that might occur after heavy rains, rapid melting of snow, or because of groundwater. While repairs may be carried out in order to get your sump pump back on its feet, there may be times when you would be better off just replacing the entire system. pump sewage system ejector septic grinder pumps effluent pit sump odors odor basement tank smells check troubleshooting stop install inspectapedia Also, make sure you read the safety instructions of the manufacturer before troubleshooting. In addition, a technician will inspect the internal wiring and parts in your sump pump to ensure you do not encounter problems throughout the year. Most sump pumps last between seven and 10 years. If that happens, the pump can easily become overwhelmed in case of heavy rain because it cant keep up with the high amount of water. If you have ignored maintenance recently, its likely that the cause of the failure is a clogged pipe or device or a jammed float switch. The performance of the pump is reduced and it removes water slowly. If that is the case, chances are great that the pump will burn out sooner or later. Last of all, you shouldnt set the pit in gravel or dirt. In case there is anything that is worrying you, its better to take action immediately and contact a professional rather than allow for a flood to occur. A functioning sump pump is very important in keeping your home safe from water damage, especially when you experience heavy rainfall from a storm or if your land is overly wet. If your pump does not function properly, you should have it serviced or replaced. pump well diagram water septic systems electrical diagnostics wiring monticello inc disconnect install air check diagrams services service motor power