In 2013, water damage accounted for 26.4% of all insurance loss claims in the United States. And it may seem surprising, but one of the main causes of water damage is from sump pump malfunctions. While sump pump issues are relatively common, it helps to know how to potentially handle the solution yourself, or at least find a temporary one. With that in mind, here’s a quick guide that will explain some of the most common causes of sump pump issues as well as their most efficient solutions.
Failure From Power Loss
Submersible sump pumps last five to 15 years, but they need to have electricity access in order to function properly each day. That being said, if your home goes through a power outage, the sump pump is bound to fail. The best way to prevent this is to invest in a backup generator that you can power manually. But keep this word of caution in mind:
“In the case that your primary pump mechanically fails, though, a generator cannot help in this situation. But in the event of a storm where the power is knocked out for any length of time, a backup generator can be a lifesaver. On the same topic of power, some components of the sump pump may be vulnerable to damage from power surges. To prevent this, protect the entire electrical system from power surges with a service entrance surge protection device,” writes Tony Rubeo on LinkedIn.
Lack of Maintenance
It may not seem like it, and while minimal, sump pumps do require some level of maintenance. Most manufacturers recommend for owners to run the pump at least every two to three months. Furthermore, some manufacturers suggest an annual maintenance program to be finished before the start of the rainy season. To avoid maintenance-related issues, keep the manufacturer’s guide close by and refer to it for the best practices and procedures regarding taking proper care of the system.
Of all homes with basements, over 98% will experience some type of water damage, and regardless of the cause of water damage, the best way to prevent serious loss is to invest in the best foundation repair services. For more information about foundation repair contractors, contact The Real Seal LLC.
