Common Sump Pump Failures and How to Remedy Them

Your sump pump is your home’s first line of defense against heavy rainfall. When water flows towards your home, your sump pump kicks on to direct the water away from your foundation, thus keeping your basement dry. However, sump pump failure is a common issue for homeowners, but most people do not realize it until it is too late. Fortunately, many of these problems can be prevented or easily repaired. Here are some of the most common sump pump failures.

Overworked Sump Pump

If you live in an area that gets frequent, heavy rainfall, you need to ensure that your sump pump can handle the extreme water levels. If you notice your sump pump struggles to remove water during heavy rain, it could signify that the pump is overworked. If the sump pump came with your house, it is probably old and should be replaced. Purchasing a new pump is much cheaper than paying for repairs after your basement floods. If the pump is relatively new and it still struggles during a storm, it might not be strong enough, and you may need to buy a more powerful model.

Sump Pump Loses Power

Sump pump failure due to loss of electricity is a real problem, and it happens more often than you may think. Your sump pump should not solely rely on your home’s power source. It is common for storms with heavy winds to knock out the power across entire towns. If your sump pump can not run on its own, you can not rely on it to protect your home. It is a necessity to have a battery back up for your sump pump. An hour of sump pump failure could allow up to 1,000 gallons of water into your home. Once moisture seeps into your drywall and interior, it can leave you with hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of damage.

Clogged Sump Pump

Your sump pump can easily get clogged with dirt and debris over time, making it less effective. An exposed sump pump will eventually fill with enough debris and buildup that it becomes clogged. The larger the clog, the more difficult it is for your pump to discharge water. Not only will this increase the chances of overwhelming the pump, but it also means the pump has to work harder and longer, which means it will reach its limit much quicker. Have your sump pump inspected regularly and invest in a cover for the pit to prevent future clogs.

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