Pro TIps
Sump Pump Failure?
A sump pump. It’s that pump way down in your basement and it has one job. Remove water that has accumulated in a water-collecting sump basin. It’s there to keep your basement from flooding. When it’s working, it’s excellent. When it stops working, you could face challenges.
In the Pittsburgh area, sump pumps are very common, since many homes were built decades ago with aging drainage systems. Our geography also lends itself to clay-heavy soil, pushing water toward foundations rather than absorbing it. Add in our freeze/thaw cycles which can stress out your pumps and issues are bound to happen.
How do I know my sump pump is not working?
You stop hearing it or you start hearing weird sounds. A low hum is typical, but if you hear it running non-stop or there are grinding or rattling sounds, this could signal an issue.
You might also notice that the sump pump is running, but no water is coming out. This could be due to a frozen discharge line or the pump could be clogged.
How does a sump pump become clogged?
Debris like gravel or soil can enter the basin or a sludge buildup can stop water flow. If you see high water levels, you could be facing a clog and you might even visibly see the debris.
What do I do if my sump pump stops working?
Shut off the electricity before going anywhere near the pump, especially if there is standing water. Safety should be your first priority.
If the electricity is off and you have the equipment available, you can start removing standing water with a wet/dry shop vac.
Some common issues that could stop the pump from working are outlined below.
- The power source might be unplugged. Check for a tripped GFCI outlet or breaker.
- Look for signs of a potential clog by inspecting the exit point of the pump.
- Check the float switch, as it can get stuck or tangled. You can manually lift it to see if the pump activates.
If nothing works, this is the time to contact a licensed plumber.
How can I keep my sump pump in good working order?
Scheduled maintenance annually is key in keeping your sump pump working. You can also perform regular tests on your own, by pouring water into the pit and ensuring the water is flowing where it needs to go.
Take the time to clean out any debris from the pit, especially after a big rain or change in seasons, and check the discharge line often.
For extra safety, you can install a battery-powered backup pump for use during power outages.
Sump pumps typically last anywhere from 7-10 years, but it’s all dependent on usage frequency, installation quality and maintenance.
If your sump pump is failing or your basement is taking on water, call Terry’s Plumbing. We answer 24/7, because Pittsburgh storms don’t wait for business hours and neither do we.
Reach out to us anytime at 412-364-9114.