Like any plumbing fixture, a sump pump can experience issues over time. In this blog post, Mr. Rooter Plumbing looks into the common warning signs that indicate your sump pump needs repairs.
Sump Pump Doesn’t Turn On
A sump pump should automatically turn on when the water level in the sump pit rises to a predetermined level. If yours fails to activate, it means the motor is burned out or there’s an issue with the power supply or the float switch mechanism. It’s important to call a plumbing repair service to troubleshoot and fix the problem, as a malfunctioning sump pump can leave your home at risk of water damage.
However, you should consider the age of your sump pump to determine whether to repair the system or replace it altogether. A unit that’s approaching the end of its lifespan may be more prone to future failures. It’s better to replace the unit before it fails completely. Get in touch with the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing for a sump pump replacement if the unit has reached the end of its lifespan.
Strange and Loud Noises
It’s normal for a sump pump to make a low, humming sound during operation. However, unusual sounds like rattling, grinding, or loud humming are a sign of a problem with the unit. These unusual noises are usually caused by a jammed impeller, debris in the pump, a faulty float switch, or a worn bearing. The good news is that these issues can be resolved without having to install a whole new sump pump. Should you hear strange noises coming from a sump pump, turn off power to the unit and call a plumber in Arthurtown, SC specializing in sump pump repair.
Continuous Running
A sump pump should only run when water accumulates to a certain level in the sump pit and needs to be pumped out to prevent flooding. If the unit continues to run even when there’s no rain or excess water, that’s a clear sign that there’s a problem with the system. Some of the common culprits behind a sump pump running too much include float switch problems, a blocked discharge line, or an improperly sized pump. A sump pump running nonstop can lead to overheating and eventual pump failure.
Check to see if the float switch is clogged or if the discharge line is blocked. Debris in the sump pit can interfere with the float switch’s movement and prevent it from activating the pump when needed. It can also get sucked into the discharge line and cause a blockage. If necessary, call a trusted plumbing repair service to inspect the sump pump and make repairs.
Irregular Cycling
Have you noticed that your sump pump cycles on and off repeatedly? This is a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed to avoid motor burnout. Irregular cycling often means the float switch has malfunctioned, the discharge line is clogged, or the pump is too small for the size of the sump pit. Constant cycling puts additional strain on a sump pump, thereby reducing its overall lifespan. Talk to an expert specializing in sump pump installation for help if you notice this problem. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we are on standby to help you restore your sump pump to good working order.
Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Professional Sump Pump Installation and Repair
Mr. Rooter Plumbing has been providing professional sump pump services since 1970. Our trained plumbers have the knowledge, experience, and advanced tools to diagnose and solve all kinds of sump pump issues before the damage escalates further. Feel free to contact us whenever you need professional sump pump services.
