What To Do When Your Sump Pump Fails

A sump pump is your home’s first line of defense against basement flooding, particularly during heavy rains or rapid snowmelt. It works by redirecting excess water away from your house’s foundation, preventing costly water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. However, like any mechanical system, sump pumps can fail — often at the worst possible time.

A failed sump pump increases the risk of home flooding. Quick troubleshooting can help prevent costly, and sometimes hazardous water damage. We’ll help you understand the potential issues that come with sump pump performance so you know what steps to take in an emergency. We’ll also let you know when professional repair or replacement services may be necessary.

You’ve noticed that your sump pump has stopped working, and your basement or lower level is now flooded. Here’s what to do right away.

Prioritize Your Safety First

Turn off the electricity in the affected area to prevent the risk of electrocution, especially where there’s water. Wear protective gear like waterproof boots and gloves to avoid direct contact with potentially contaminated water.

Clean Up the Water

If you have one or can borrow one right away, use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the standing water quickly. Otherwise, a mop and bucket will work, too. Set up fans or a dehumidifier to finish drying out the damp area and prevent mold growth.

Move Your Belongings to Safety

Remove furniture, electronics, and valuables from the flooded area to avoid further damage. Carefully inspect your items for water damage, and then make sure each piece is put in a place where it can dry.

Assess the Damage

If you plan to file a claim with your insurance company, take photos of the flooded area. Don’t forget to photograph the sump pump itself to show any visible issues, such as cracks, disconnections, or debris buildup.

Step 2: Common Sump Pump Issues and Troubleshooting Tips 

Once you’ve cleaned up the damage and called your insurance company, it’s time to inspect your sump pump for damage. This will help you get a clearer idea of what went wrong and how to prevent it from happening again.

What To Do When Your Sump Pump Fails

Several common problems can lead to total failure, each with its own warning signs and potential solutions.

Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure

• Power outages: Sump pumps rely on electricity, making power outages a frequent cause of failure during storms. If you don’t already have a backup battery for your sump pump, it may be time to invest in one.
• Clogs and blockages: Debris can accumulate in the sump pit or discharge line, which would prevent the pump from functioning. Check for a clogged inlet screen or frozen discharge pipe, both of which can keep water from flowing away.
• Mechanical failures: Sump pumps are machines. As such, over time, their various components may wear out. Pumps that run continuously due to improper sizing or installation are especially prone to mechanical breakdown.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Unusual noises
• Standing water
• Frequent cycling
• A pump older than 10 years

Simple Tests to Diagnose Issues

• Check the power source: Double-check that the pump is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
• Inspect the float switch: Lift the float manually to see if the pump activates. If not, the switch may be faulty or stuck.
• Test the pump: You can pour water into the sump pit to see if the pump starts and clears the water. If it doesn’t, the issue may lie in the motor or discharge line.

What To Do When the Sump Pump Alarm Goes Off

A sump pump alarm is designed to alert you to potential problems before flooding occurs. When it sounds you must act quickly to identify and address the issue. Most alarms indicate rising water levels in the sump pit due to a malfunction or an inability to keep up with the incoming water.

Immediate Steps to Take

• Inspect the water level: Check the sump pit to see if the water level is nearing the top. If the pump isn’t running, it may have lost power, become clogged, or experienced a mechanical failure.
• Check the power source: Double-check that the pump is plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If your pump has a backup battery, check that it’s charged and functioning.
• Look for clogs: Examine the pump’s intake and discharge lines for visible blockages. A clogged line can prevent water from being expelled.

What To Do When Your Sump Pump Won’t Stop Running

A sump pump that won’t stop running can waste energy, wear out prematurely, and fail when you need it most.

Immediate Steps to Investigate

• Check the float switch: The float switch activates the pump when water levels rise. If the float is stuck in the “on” position—due to debris, improper placement, or a mechanical fault—the pump will run continuously. Adjusting or cleaning the float may resolve the issue.
• Inspect the check valve: A pump’s check valve prevents expelled water from flowing back into the sump pit. When it’s missing or malfunctioning, water can re-enter the pit, and the pump will keep cycling. A damaged or improperly installed check valve must be replaced as soon as possible.
• Examine your home’s drainage lines: Blockages in the discharge line or improper drainage make the pump work harder than it should. Look for and clear any debris, ice, or other obstructions as often as needed.

Step 3: When To Get A Professional Sump Pump Repair or Replacement

Most of the time, you can address minor sump pump issues yourself. However, some problems require the expertise of a professional. If your pump fails to start despite basic troubleshooting, it could be caused by more significant damage to the internal components. If this is the case, avoid attempting complex repairs yourself, as this could make the problem worse.

Recurring issues, such as a pump that frequently clogs, may indicate that the system is improperly sized and needs to be replaced. A professional can assess whether the pump needs adjustments, repairs, or a complete replacement. They’ll also evaluate related components like the check valve and drainage system to avoid problems in the future.

If your pump is over 10 years old or has experienced multiple failures, it may be time for a new one. A trained professional will recommend and install the right pump for your home.

Preventative Measures for Sump Pump Failures

As with anything else, proactive maintenance and care go a long way in preventing sump pump failures. Simply cleaning your sump pit periodically to remove debris can help prevent it from failing during heavy rains. Test your pump at least once a season by pouring water into the pit and making sure the system works as it should. These types of routine checks help you catch minor issues before they escalate into expensive repairs.

Consider investing in backup power options, such as battery backup systems or water-powered pumps, so that your pump continues to function during storms. Scheduling professional inspections every few years will uncover wear and tear or installation issues that may affect the pump’s reliability. 

Call John C. Flood For Reliable Sump Pump Services

We’ve been experts in sump pump repair, maintenance, and installation for a long time, so we’ve seen it all. We offer flat rates, 7 days a week, including evenings. Our experienced, highly qualified, clean, neat service technicians will help you any time of the day or night. We even offer coupons for our customers so you can trust we’re doing your service right.

Don’t wait until you have an emergency – schedule your service today and let John C. Flood give you peace of mind.

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