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Sump Pump Failure: 5 Reasons Why It Happens

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Sump Pump Failure
Sump Pump Failure

We covered sump pump basics with an earlier post, so let’s follow up with a little more information about these basement essentials. You probably think of your pump as a solid workhorse that reliably handles downstairs flooding during heavy rainstorms or plumbing mishaps. When you realize your sump pump’s not working, do you know how to identify […] The post Sump Pump Failure: 5 Reasons Why It Happens appeared first on .

We covered sump pump basics with an earlier post, so let’s follow up with a little more information about these basement essentials. You probably think of your pump as a solid workhorse that reliably handles downstairs flooding during heavy rainstorms or plumbing mishaps.

When you realize your sump pump’s not working, do you know how to identify the source of the problem?

We take care of basement waterproofing in Chicago and the suburbs, and we’re often asked about sump pump failure. The equipment isn’t complicated. You can head off most problems when you understand how they develop.

5 Common Reasons Why the Sump Pump Isn’t Working

When a power outage shuts down the electricity, you know the pump won’t work without a battery backup system. When you’re trying to figure out other types of sump pump problems, diagnosing the exact cause can be tricky.

1. The Pump Has Power, But It Won’t Turn On
Check the float inside the unit’s housing. If debris blocks it from rising while the basin fills with water, the float can’t activate the pump’s switch and start up the unit.

2. It’s Done Its Job, But It Won’t Turn Off
Shut down the pump, and look at the impeller. If it’s loose on the shaft, tighten its fasteners. If the impeller appears damaged, let an authorized technician handle repair or replacement.

3. It Takes Longer Than Usual to Pump Out Water
You can often blame this sump pump problem on a clogged discharge line. Over time, it accumulates debris, so clean out the line, and install a grate over its terminus to keep out grass and leaves.

4. Even With a Clean Line, The Pump Runs Slow
A sump pump needs 1/6 to 1/3 hp to effectively handle volume especially from storm flooding. Consider upgrading a slow unit to a model with more mechanical muscle.

5. Overall Performance Just Isn’t Dependable
When the sump pump isn’t working as well as it used to, you can’t always blame its parts and connections. Most units have an average working life of seven years, so it may be time for a sump pump replacement.

Keeping You Dry

If the sump pump fails, you face a soggy mess and a phone call for help to a flooded basement cleanup service. You can solve most pump problems with simple DIY strategies, but we’re always here to help and answer your questions.

You can count on us for top-quality sump pump replacements and battery backup systems. We also offer the best basement waterproofing and foundation repair in Chicago and the suburbs. Real Seal specializes in keeping your home and business dry, so give us call at 847-996-9300.

WRITTEN BY

Austin Werner

Austin Werner is the Owner of The Real Seal LLC, a basement waterproofing and foundation repair company. Austin believes that having a highly trained and happy team is the key to success. This is reflected through hundreds of 5 star customer reviews his company has received online.

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