What happens if a sump pump fails in your home?
What is a Sump Pump? The sump pump in your home prevents you from stepping into ankle-deep icy water in your basement. When your sump pumps work, you will not even think about having them in your home. When they fail, everyone will realize how important they are. So, what is this equipment and what happens if it fails? We at A Clear Choice Plumbing & Heating would like to help you realize the importance of a properly working pump.
What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a small pump that channels water away from the sump basins in your home. They will usually prevent groundwater intrusion. They can also protect your basement if there is a washing machine malfunction or a burst pipe. There are 2 common types of pumps:
Submersible Sump Pumps:
As the name suggests, they are hidden from view and kept within the sump basin.
Pedestal Sump Pumps:
These are mounted above the floor level and are out of the sump basin.
Sump pumps offer protection from basement flooding in a wide range of scenarios. When there is groundwater buildup under the basement floor or outside the foundation, it will flow through the drain pipe to the sump basin. Once the water reaches a certain level, the pump will get activated to remove the excess water.
What Happens In Your Home If The Sump Pump Fails?
A sump pump works around the clock to protect your home. Like any other equipment, it can also break down and require repair. Some of the common problems that can arise when this device stops working are as follows:
1. Continuous Flooding
You may notice continuous and heavy flow into the sup pit. Sump pumps may have to work overtime when the weather changes and may fail. It is best to call a plumber to check and fix it immediately. If the water table is high, the pump may need to be raised. It may also be required to add another pump in another area in your basement. Your plumber may also recommend upgrading the system.
2. Lack of Water in Sump Pit
You may notice that there is no water in the pit even when the pump continues to work. This may be due to 2 reasons:
- The pump is not connected properly to the drainage system
- The pump is not properly installed
- The basement drainage system and the pump should work together to divert water to the sump pit. If the pit is empty despite the pump working, you should call a plumber.
3. Clogged Sump Pump
The sump pit can have a buildup of dirt and contaminants, causing clogs. It can slow down or stop working. This usually happens when the pump does not have a lid. When this happens, you may notice the following problems:
- Dirt and debris in the pit
- A float switch gets jammed
- Mechanical parts become dirty
- The switches can become tangled or jammed
4. A Noisy Pump
If the pump has an issue, it may make excessive noise. All sump pumps make some sound, but you should call the plumber if you notice:
- Rattling
- Thuds
- Gurgling
- Grinding
A noisy pump usually means that there is an issue with the motor. The problem can be fixed by repairing or replacing the motor.
It is best to have the sump pump in your home maintained regularly to prevent any of these issues.
Whether you need regular maintenance for the system or emergency repair, you can rely on A Clear Choice Plumbing & Heating. If you want to fix an appointment, call us today at (720) 938-1554. You may also send us your queries using this Online Form and one of our experts will get back to you at the earliest.