Running Pipes, and More!

Sump pumps can be a necessity if you have a flood-prone basement or crawlspace. Eventually, the pump will need to be replaced, so it's important to know the symptoms of imminent failure.

1. Total Failure

A sump pump can fail to come on when there is water in the pit for a couple of reasons. A malfunctioning moisture sensor, for example, is a problem that can usually be repaired. Issues with the breaker or power supply are other causes of failure that can be repaired. A completely failed motor, on the other hand, is a more severe problem and the best solution is to replace the pump entirely. 

2. Weak Pumping

Sometimes the pump comes on but water remains in the pit or doesn't drain out fast enough. This can be the result of a failing sump pump that needs to be repaired or replaced. Weak pumping may also indicate that the pump isn't sized appropriately to your needs. In this case, you need to replace the pump with one that can handle the water load in your sump pit.

3. Severe Noise

Major noise is a common indication of imminent failure. All sump pumps make some noise when they are operating, typically nothing more than a gentle hum in the background. If the noise becomes louder, uneven, or includes issues such as grinding or squealing sounds, then a major issue is affecting the sump pump. Replacement is often the best option since loud noises typically indicate that the motor is failing.

4. Constant Cycling

Your sump pump should only cycle on when there is water in the sump pit, then it should promptly cycle back off. If it keeps cycling on and off, even after the pit is dry, something has failed. The issue could be with a repairable sensor or electric switch in the pump, but often constant cycling is a sign that the device has reached the end of its useful service life.

5. Old Age

Every sump pump has a finite lifespan, typically around a decade or so. If you have an older sump pump and it has begun to suffer problems that lead to frequent repairs, it may make more financial sense to simply replace it rather than pay for constant fixes. This will also ensure that the pump works during a flood, which can help you avoid home damage.

Contact a sump pump replacement service if your pump is reaching the end of its useful life.