When Is it Time to Replace Your Sump Pump?

Every homeowner must consider a sump pump installation. A sump pump is a mechanism used for water build-up collection and removal in a home, usually the basement. According to WaterDamageDefense.com, up to 98 percent of basements in homes across the country will get some type of water damage.

Since more and more homes are converting their basement into a finished space, they can’t risk water damaging it. 

More and more homes are converting their basement into a usable space.

If you live in an area where flooding commonly occurs, then a sump pump would be extremely useful to have. As you know, water damage is no joke. And if you have a sump pump installed in your basement, it can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars.

Your sump pump should last you a good decade. However, since it’s only working from time to time and remains unused for weeks or even months, some signs of damage may be readily noticeable.

Spring Showers

Sump pumps work the hardest during April and May showers. Before you call a sump pump installation professional, here are some failure signs you need to look for.

Does the Sump Pump Have a Backup Power?

A severe thunderstorm could simply put out your power – affecting your sump pump and making you think it’s broken. If a backup generator is not within your budget, you can include a rechargeable battery pack during the sump pump installation or replacement process. A rechargeable battery pack allows your sump pump to run for a couple hours in the event of a power outage.

Several newer models of sump pump actually come with built-in battery pack systems. Additionally, you can opt to buy a secondary sump pump that doesn’t rely on electricity and is battery operated. This secondary system can act as a back up when your main sump pump stops working.

How Often Do the Cycles Occur?

If your sump pump regularly cycles on and off, then the basin may not be big enough to hold the amount of water in the basement. Overworking the sump pump can knock out the motor. Sump pump installation professionals recommend getting a deeper basin. As opposed to shallower ones, deeper basins allow the sump pump to turn on only when it needs to.

Sump pump installation professionals can install basins that can hold up to 30 gallons of water. The downside of getting a deeper basin, if you can call it that, is digging a bigger hole in the floor. However, the cost of this project is more affordable than having to replace your sump pump more often.

Is the Sump Pump Running Around the Clock?

If the device is running for short periods of time, then it may be a sign that it doesn’t have enough power for the amount of water it’s holding or for the distance it must drain the water.

If the volume of water is too much or if it’s too far, the sump pump is compelled to run uninterrupted.

The size of sump pumps depends on the gallons of water per hour (GPH) they are able to pump. To prevent any breakdown or interruption, you should think about upgrading your sump pump installation to a model that can handle more GPH.

If you don’t know the amount of water you’ll need your new sump pump to handle, your sump pump installation professional can assist you.

Does the Sump Pump Make Strange Noises?

If you notice anything other than a low whirr or hum coming from your sump pump, then that may be a sign of breakdown. A jammed impeller may cause any weird noises or strange sounds.

Also, strange noises may be the result of damaged or worn interior components. Have your device checked professionally by a sump pump installation specialist to check what the cause is of any odd noises coming out of the mechanism.

Let a professional inspect your sump pump installation

Does Your Basement Get Flooded?

Sump pumps work the most during heavy rains. Another scenario when they work their hardest is when water leaks into the basement from damaged pipes, ground pressure, or melting snow.

The primary function of sump pumps is to remove the water that collects in your basement. If you see any puddles or pools of water down in the basement, then it’s a significant indicator that your sump pump will need to be checked.

A sump pump installation specialist can let you know if you need to fix it or get a new one. Either way, you’ll need a working sump pump to prevent water damage.

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