Common Sump Pump Problems Resulting In Basement Flooding

Power failure/sump pump will not work during an outage

The most common cause of sump pump failure is a power failure. A stand-alone sump pump relies on the power supply to operate. In the event of a power failure, the sump pump cannot operate, which leads to basement flooding.

Fortunately, there are backup systems to prevent flooding of a basement due to a power failure at the sump pump. Click here to learn more about Best sump pump backups.

Switch problem - switch is stuck - sump pump float is stuck or not working properly

The primary mechanical cause for sump pump failure is a switch problem. Sump pumps need to know when to turn on or off from their "float switch". When the water level in the sump reaches a certain level, the float switch floats upward and triggers the sump pump to operate. When the water level decreases, the float also descends until it reaches a certain level and it triggers the sump pump to shut off. Obviously, it is crucial that the float switch works properly.

Sometimes the float switch gets stuck. This can happen for different reasons. In some cases, the vibration caused by the sump pump during execution causes the sump pump to move around in the sump. If the sump pump is too close to the walls and the float is in contact with the sump liner, it could get stuck in the "on" position, causing a sump pump to run constantly. Likewise, if the float switch is stuck in something like a hose, wire, mud or debris, the float switch will either be stuck in the "on" position, running nonstop or in "position" off, do not trigger the sump pump to turn on. In any case, the sump pump will not work properly.

Open and uncovered sump pump basin

Besides the obvious danger of a young child or animal falling into the sump, an open or uncovered pit can allow odors and unwanted gases such as radon gas enter your home. In addition, an open sump is sensitive to the possibility of other objects falling into the pit and can lead to sump pump failure. For these reasons, it is important to have a sump pump cover to help alleviate the problem. In addition, it is good to have a sump cover that can be easily removed for maintenance or inspection and at the same time, strong enough to steer on.

Sump Pump is Overwhelmed - sump pump is constantly running

A sump pump that is continuously running can wear out faster and cost more electricity. Moreover, a sump pump that is constantly running will tend to overheat and break up, especially when there is no water in the sump to help cool the sump pump.

There are many reasons for a sump pump to be overwhelmed, including sump pump switch stuck, pump check valve missing or de-energized, sump pump and/or liner is the right size (too much large or small), or flooding continues in the sump basin. Click to learn more about running the sump pump consistently.

Solving the problem of an overwhelmed sump pump is easy enough with simple solutions. In addition, save money and energy by saving your existing sump pump from loss of performance or failure by attending to the problem sooner than later.

Discharge frozen or clogged pipes - discharge of the sump pump

It is very important that the outdoor drain hose is free of snow, leaves, stones, sticks and other debris. In addition, the exhaust pipe must be tilted down so that the water is completely empty of the outer pipes to prevent freezing.

As additive protection, Basement Solution installs the discharge line with an easily detachable hose extension. In case the outer tube is clogged or frozen, the hose extension can be removed and the system is free to pump the water. Either a new pipe extension can be attached or the one supplied can be cleaned and attached.

Sump pump very noisy

Sounds coming from your sump pump system are due to several factors, including the quality of the sump pump, the location/robustness of the sump pump in the pit, the vibrations of the drainpipe, and the lid of the sump pump. the pit missing or covered sump badly install. Some factors to help reduce the loud noises of the sump pump:

• Sump pump made of cast iron lubricated ball bearings and shaft seal will be quieter and have a longer service life than a cheap plastic sump pump.
• Correct placement of the sump pump in a proper sump is better than other sump pump systems placed near the sump pit.
• Lid with bolt sight can reduce vibrations and noise that resonate in the basement.
• Well-fixed discharge pipes can reduce the vibrations of the water flowing through it and with the sump lid, it can help reduce the movement and vibrations of the sump pump.

The pump is not the right size - the sump pump can not handle the amount of water

Sump pumps are not designed for a single size of the drainage system. A sump pump that is too weak or too powerful will lead to a problem. If the sump pump is too powerful, it will start and stop frequently. These "short cycles" can shorten the life of the sump pump. On the other hand, if the sump pump is too small, it may not be able to pump enough water. This means that the amount of water entering the sump is faster than the pump can get out; thus, causing the sump pump to run continuously and causing premature failure of the pump.

In most cases, a sump pump is required; however, a professional waterproofing specialist may suggest two sump pumps. Installation of an additional sump pump at another location is determined by a professional at the site and is based on several factors, including the size of the basement, the water problems in the main basement as well as in an addition , and differential levels in the foundation soil (for example, garage attached to the basement).

Lack of maintenance/old age - sump pump

Like all machines, maintenance is necessary and they do not last forever. Proper maintenance extends the life of a sump pump. Proper installation and installation according to the manufacturer's instructions also help to extend the life of a sump pump. But there comes a time when you just have to say bye-bye and replace your sump pump with one that is more reliable, energy-efficient and will perform better than your old sump pump.

Incorrect installation

Manufacturers of sump pumps make pump design with instructions and specifications that an installer must follow very carefully. Improper installation can result in a sump pump running continuously, sump pump malfunctions, and severe water damage to your basement. Most often seen sump pump installation errors include:

• Missing control value
• Missing / incorrect sump or basin
• Not enough electricity to properly feed the pump
• The pump is too small to handle another water source such as washing machines that pour into the pit.
• A sump pump is too close to the lining walls and pressing against the float, resulting in a stuck float switch

Sump pump disconnected

Sometimes the sump pump is disconnected voluntarily by the owner but forgot to reconnect. Other times, the sump pump was unintentionally unplugged or just not plugged in when it was originally installed. Either way, it's an easy solution; plug it. And to hope, that a flood did not take place at the moment when it was discovered. To help prevent basement flooding from a simple mistake, planning for the maintenance of your sump pump is recommended for all years.