A Guide to Sump Pump Repair and Maintenance
- Check the Float. The float is a vital part of a sump pump, and it is also one of the most vulnerable. ...
- Clean the Sump Pit. Debris in the sump pit is a major cause of float problems. ...
- Test the Check Valve. ...
- Clean the Impeller. ...
- Check the Electricity. ...
How to unclog a sump pump?
- Start with the outlet that rests on the discharge pipe. ...
- Remove whatever you see is blocking the discharge hose or pipe. ...
- Disconnect the sump pump from the power source and the float from its electrical outlet. ...
- Inspect the small opening or screen through where the liquid/water enters your pump.
How to help maintain your sump pump?
You might be able to get some grants and benefits, for example:
- Council tax rebates. You may be able to get £150 back from your council tax.
- Warm Homes Discount. ...
- Winter Fuel Payment. ...
- Cold weather payments. ...
- If you need help to feed yourself or your family, the Trussell Trust can help you find a food bank, or you can call them for advice.
How do you maintain a sump pump?
Plan on doing these items once a year:
- Remove the pump from the sump and clean it and inspect it.
- Clean out the sump.
- Check the Owner's Manual to see if the pump bearings require grease or oil. ...
- Replace the pump in the sump.
- Check power cord and make sure the cord is connected to power.
Who fixes sump pump problems?
This is why they offer quick response service to customers who contact them for sump pump problems. The team understands the common sump pump problems and kickstarts their visit by visiting the basement to inspect and assess the sump pump. After the assessment, the repairmen determine the problem and recommend the next line of action.
What is the most common reason for sump pump failure?
The most common mechanical problem that causes a sump pump failure is a stuck switch. This primarily occurs when the pump shifts inside the basin, causing the float that operates the switch to become ineffective by lodging itself against the side of the pump.
Can sump pumps be fixed?
Many waterproofers both install and repair sump pumps. Plumbers fix plumbing leaks, not a chronic wet basement or crawl space problem.
What do you do when your sump pump stops working?
When the pump stops working, you need to start working. With a dormant pump, there's going to be water coming into the basement. If the amount of water is manageable, you can mop it up, deposit it to a bucket, and dump at least 20 feet away from the house. The faster you remove the excess water, the better.
How do I get my sump pump to work again?
Sump Pump Doesn't Turn OnMake sure the unit has power. Check to see that it's plugged in and that the circuit has power via the home's main electrical panel.Test the outlet to ensure it's working. ... Check the float switch to see if the pump turns on when you manually lift the float. ... Check the impeller for clogs.
How much should it cost to replace a sump pump?
The average cost to replace a sump pump is $300 to $750, though it can range anywhere between $110 to $1,000. The cost essentially depends on the price of the unit and the company you hire to do the replacement.
What's the lifespan of a sump pump?
about 10 yearsLike other appliances and equipment in your home, your sump pump won't last forever. Averaging about 10 years, you might not notice your sump pump has malfunctioned until it has stopped working.
How do you tell if your sump pump is burnt out?
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Sump PumpMakes strange noises. Sounds coming from your pump can indicate worn or damaged parts. ... Vibrates Excessively when Running. ... Infrequent Pump Usage. ... Runs All the Time. ... Irregular Cycling. ... It Runs for a Long Time. ... Visible Rust. ... Seven Years Old or Older.More items...
What causes a sump pump to burn out?
A common cause of sump pump failure is motor burn out. The voltage from the supply increases until the pump is overheated and shuts off. This can happen when the sump pump is being overworked, due to a poor quality or an undersized pump.
Do sump pumps have a reset button?
If your sump pump does not have a reset button, unplugging it from its power source like we did in Step 1 will suffice to cycle the system's motor. If your sump pump does have a reset button, now is the time to use it. Many sump pump problems can simply be solved by resetting the pump.
Why is my sump pump humming but not pumping?
Low humming noises from a sump pump are often completely normal. However, if the pump begins humming louder than usual and/or is not pumping water, it's time to investigate. First, check the vent hole for a clog and clean it out if needed. If this doesn't help, you may have a stuck check valve.
How often should sump pumps be replaced?
every 7-10 yearsEven if you have professionally installed a quality product, a sump pump should be replaced every 7-10 years. Typically located in a basin on your basement floor, your sump pump collects excess water from drains and redirects it away from the house.
Do sump pumps need maintenance?
Water from under or around your home drains into a sump pump pit, and is then pumped out of your home and away from the foundation. As with any other system or appliance you may have in your home, a sump pump needs regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly.
How do you know if your sump pump is not working?
The first way to test the sump pump is to trace the two electrical cords of the sump pump. The pump cord plugs into the back of the float cord plug. Both cables should be unplugged, and only the pump cord should be plugged into the outlet. If you hear a humming sound when turning on the pump, the pump works.
Can I replace a sump pump myself?
When your home has a sump pump, you want it working to keep rainwater out of your basement or crawl space. If your sump pump is failing and you need to replace it, it's a DIY job you can handle yourself.
What to do if your sump pump is not working?
If your sump pump has no power, check the following: Make sure that it is securely plugged into your power outlet and that it wasn't accidentally unplugged. Make sure that the breaker for your sump pump hasn't been switched off. Make sure that your battery backup hasn't run out of power.
What causes a sump pump to fail?
Problem 1: Sump Pump Clogs. There are several spots where clogs could cause your sump pump to fail. 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 outside of your home.
Why won't my sump pump turn on?
As your sump pump is running, it vibrates and these vibrations can cause it to move around the sump pit. This movement could cause your float switch to get pushed up against the size of the pit, thus keeping it in the "off" position. If this happens, your sump pump won't turn on.
Why is it important to test a sump pump?
It is important to make sure that your sump pump is working properly at all times so that you can avoid water damage to your property. 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.
What happens if your sump pump overheats?
If your motor overheats, it could burn out and will need replacing. The following video shows the steps for replacing a sump pump. Replacing a sump pump is probably best left to a professional, however, to make sure that it is done properly. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.
What happens if your pump pit is too deep?
If your pit is too large and too deep, your pump will remove more water than it needs to. On the other hand, if the pit is too small, your pump will have to come on and off more often, thus wearing it out sooner. If your motor overheats, it could burn out and will need replacing.
Why do you need a backup battery for a sump pump?
A backup battery system will also keep your sump pump running if your breaker trips and you are unaware of it. Installing a battery system will give you peace of mind and it is relatively inexpensive in comparison to the high cost of repairing damages due to flooding.
What happens if a sump pump is running?
A sump pump is your home’s defense against flooding. However, when it begins failing, it could worsen the outstanding problem or even trigger the inundation of your basement or crawlspace. If your sump pump is constantly running or inoperable, we have created a list of ordinary types of sump pump problems and troubleshooting methods.
Why won't my sump pump work?
Your sump pump can’t work if a storm knocks down your power, your circuit breaker trips, or the pump gets unplugged. Snell can help you put in a high-performing, battery-powered pump and verify that it has a battery backup and alarm system so you know when your home’s vulnerable.
Why does my sump pump make a clanging noise?
Clanging noises can come from pipe vibrations while the sump pump is operating . The quickest way to fix this problem is to insulate the pipes that are connected to the pump. Otherwise, you may just need a knowledgeable technician to retrofit your discharge pipe so it’s in a more functional (and quieter) position.
Why is my sump pump running?
If your sump pump is constantly running, this is a sign that your pump is too big or small. Since an undersized sump pump will struggle to remove water from your basement, it will reach the end of its life cycle at a faster rate. For the most part, it’s safest to replace an old sump pump with another of the same size.
When to call a certified sump pump technician?
Call a licensed technician prior to the spring season to ensure your sump pump is prepared for thunderstorms and rain showers. A certified technician will clean or replace the parts in your sump pump to prevent problems during the spring and summer seasons.
Can a sump pump keep water out of the house?
We previously mentioned that an improperly-installed sump pump can keep it from pushing water out of your home. A poor installation job would mean that your pump wasn’t stabilized, set onto a clean surface, or given a check valve to prevent backflow and a discharge line relief hole to release air pressure.
Can a sump pump be frozen?
A sump pump rids itself of water through discharge lines. However, it is not abnormal for the drainage pipes to become frozen during the winter season. To eliminate this problem, a licensed technician can install a line attachment that prevents water from flowing out to the icy lines. In addition, a certified plumber in Ashburn, VA is able to reroute your lines to keep them clear, covered, and far from your foundation.
What do I need to pump water out of a basement?
Things You'll Need. Towels. Large bucket or wheel barrow. Concrete mix. Stir stick. Hand trowel. Sump pumps are a necessity in homes with basements in flood-prone areas. Sump pumps are used to pump excess water out of flooded basements in your home.
What is a pump basin?
The pump basin, otherwise known as the sump pump it, is the reservoir hole of the pit that was dug out to hold the water as it is pumped out by your pump. Just like sidewalks can sometimes, move or develop cracks over time, so can your sump pump pit. If this happens you will want to make repairs immediately. Advertisement.
1. Research Where To Find A Reliable Sump Pump Service
It's always best to avail of sump pump repair service when you need some work done on the system. This is because they’re professionals who are experienced and are equipped with the necessary skills to fix the problem quickly.
2. Understand Your Insurance Coverage
Some insurance companies will cover the cost of a sump pump repair. Therefore, it’s important to clarify with your insurance agent what coverage you have for sump pump repairs. If you aren't covered under your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, then it's time to reach out to an independent insurance agency.
3. Know The Location Of Your Pump
The location of your pump will be a big consideration in what you should do next. If the pump is located outside, you may need to call a plumber for help. The plumber can help with any repairs and maintain the pump for you.
4. Familiarize Yourself With The Signs Of A Sump Pump Failure
The first sign of trouble is often the water in the basement. If you notice that the sump pump isn’t working any longer or isn’t pumping enough water, it's a sign that it needs repair or replacement.
5. Be Aware Of The Kind Of Contract To Sign
Pump repair services do not come cheap. This is because professionals require payment upfront or in full before the service is performed. So, what kind of contract should you sign with them?
6. Find Out How Much The Repair Will Cost
If your basement has recently flooded, you're probably wondering how much it costs to fix a clogged sump pump. The average cost of a sump pump repair is typically between USD$350 and USD$700. However, the price will vary depending on the size of the home's sump pump system, how skilled the technician is, and any other important factors.
7. Look For Essential Qualities
The best way to ensure that you're getting exemplary repair service for your sump pump repair or replacement is to look for some essential qualities:
