A sump pump is an important device that keeps your basement dry during the rainy season, melting winter snow, and flooding emergencies. It detects when there is too much water and pumps it out of the way. A properly functioning sump pump should serve for at least ten years. However, because your sump pump doesn’t operate regularly, it may go unnoticed for some time. You will only realize it is malfunctioning when faced with a flooding basement.
Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on your pump and know the warning signs that it needs repair. If you understand the warning signs for a repair, you can contact a plumber and prevent water damage from occurring. Here are a few signs that indicate your sump pump needs repair.
Strange Noises
While sump pumps make sounds when draining water, a malfunctioning sump pump will make distinct sounds you are not used to. If your sump pump makes strange noises, it could signify wear and tear. It may also indicate that something is caught in the impeller. If you hear strange noises, it is best to unplug the unit and call a plumber for repairs.
Leaking Water
If you notice water leaking from your sump pump, it is time for a repair. A small amount of condensation around the base of your sump pump is normal. But there is a problem if there is a lot of water or it is coming from a different area, such as the discharge pipe. Leaking water can damage your floors and walls, so it is best to call a professional as soon as you notice the issue.
Overheating
If your sump pump starts to overheat, it is usually a sign of an issue with the float switch. The float switch activates the pump when the water level rises and deactivates it when the water recedes. If the float switch is not working properly, the pump will run continuously and overheat. You can try to reset the float switch, but if that does not work, you will need to call a plumber in Las Vegas, NV.
Bad Odors
If your sump pump is malfunctioning, it won’t pump all the water out of the basement as quickly as possible. This can lead to mildew and mold growth which can cause bad odors in the basement. Furthermore, if the pump has a rotten-eggs odor, it’s likely due to the accumulation of dirt and debris in its valve.
When bad odors are in your basement, call a plumbing company to professionally clean and deodorize your sump pump. Even so, your plumber can put in an airtight lid to minimize undesirable smells generated by the pump. Keep in mind that when mildew and mold smells are becoming overly an issue – they will not only affect your basement’s comfort but can cause serious health concerns.
Constant Operation Even when There is No Water to Pump Out
A damaged float is the leading cause of a sump pump constantly working, even when no water is needed to be drained out. Also, it can be because of incorrect installation or a clog somewhere in the pipe. A damaged pump float can make the pump work continuously when there is no water to pump out.
This is a big issue, and it can burn out the motor of the sump pump, leaving your basement at high risk of flooding in the future. Operating continuously can also make the pump wear out sooner than expected, forcing you to invest in a new one. If the sump pump works continually, unplug it and contact a professional immediately. Depending on the cause of the issue, your expert will decide whether to repair a specific part or replace the entire unit.
Clogs
Small items like grass, sand, twigs, and pebbles could easily clog your sump pump. Clogs can form in the valves, seals, and drainage lines. Severe clogs cause the pump to overwork and end up overheating. To prevent flooding in your basement, call an expert in Las Vegas, NV, to remove the clog as soon as possible. When it comes to your sump pump, trust professional plumbers. They will assess, diagnose, and resolve the problem quickly because they have the experience and expertise to get the job done right.
No Operation
Your sump pump may fail to turn, especially when you need it most during heavy rainfall. This is a serious situation; you should contact a plumber to solve it. If your sump pump doesn’t operate, there could be several issues. Before contacting an expert, check if the float switch is stuck, as it may be tangled in the sump pump basin. Most pumps have brackets holding the float switch, and it can break and be the cause.
To determine if your pump is turning on, keep an eye on the basement for signs of water damage to the floor or mold growth around the pump reservoir. Mold growth is a clear sign your sump pump is no longer draining water well. Alternatively, you can pour some water into the reservoir. If it works, the pump will turn on and drain water from the reservoir.
If nothing happens, contact a plumbing expert to fix the issue. If a plumber comes and they are unable to solve the issue, it may be time to invest in a new sump pump.
Constant Vibrating and Motor Issues
The impeller, whose main task is to draw water into the pump, can bring in debris. If the impeller is damaged, it causes the pump to vibrate excessively. It is good to know that if an impeller is bent, a plumber can be unable to help with the repair. Only a replacement can be done.
Moreover, if it fails to work entirely, there could be a problem with the motor. A motor that doesn’t function can be a problem with damaged wiring; the unit tripped the circuit breaker or plunged itself. Still, a malfunctioning motor could be a sign of a damaged extension hose or a damaged filter.
Old Age
Some sump pumps are heavy-duty and well designed in a way that they can last up to 10 years. Even if your pump is not experiencing any of the signs above, you may want to replace it for a smoother operation. Sooner or later, you will need a new sump pump. This is because excessive wear and old age can increase the risk of your sump pump failing, especially at a time you don’t expect.
Replacing a pump before it starts failing is a good idea, and it will save you from water damage in case of a sudden storm or flood.
Feel free to call Craig’s Plumbing for all your sump pump and plumbing issues in Las Vegas, NV. We are a reputable plumbing company with highly trained and experienced experts who never disappoint. Our plumbers will be more than happy to address any sump pump issue you may have and provide a long-lasting solution. If your sump pump has failed, we will guide you through the selection process so that you purchase a high-quality pump.
