Troubleshooting Common Sump Pump Issues
Your sump pump is one of the most important lines of defense within your home's waterproofing system, as it is the only appliance that actively pumps water out of your basement as it enters, acting as a failsafe if other barriers fail. This means that a sump pump that is not operating properly can cause a massive amount of headaches for you and your household, as water levels can rise and damage can quickly add up. Knowing about common problems that can affect your sump pump and what you can do to combat them is a good idea.
Damaged Float
One of the most common things that can prevent your sump pump from operating effectively and efficiently is if the float has been damaged. The float is a type of switch hooked up to your sump pump that operates in the reverse manner to your toilet: it will literally float upwards as water rises in your basement, but once it reaches a certain point, it will cause the pump to kick in and drain all of the water from the sump reservoir. Check to make sure that the float is still intact and not caught on any objects that would prevent it from floating upwards. If the float is damaged or missing, you should contact a plumber about replacing it.
Clogged Drain Lines
Another reason why your sump pump may not be able to effectively protect your home against water damage, even if the pump itself is operating as normal, is if the drain lines are clogged. The drain lines of your sump pump will drain somewhere outside in your yard, often several feet away from the side of your home to reduce the risk of that water returning to your basement. Check the drain line opening to ensure that no leaves, dirt, or other blockages have manifested themselves, and clean them out as needed.
Burnt Out Motor
Finally, the last and most serious common issue that can attack your sump pump is a burnt out motor. This can occur with age or with poor wiring, but in any case leaves your sump pump unable to operate in the event of basement flooding. Fortunately, you can test this yourself: simply pour a bucket of water into your sump pump's reservoir until it's almost full. If the pump doesn't kick in, you'll need to get in touch with a company like Plumb-It Inc to replace it.
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