Top Reasons of Sump Pump Failure

98 percent of basements will have some sort of flooding or water damage in their lifetime, according to restoration industry estimates.  Many different reasons can lead to water damage like rain, faulty plumbing, a cracked pipe, sump pump failure, or more; and the damage can be expensive.

Install a Sump Pump to Help with Excess Water

A sump pump is a common piece of equipment used to pull water away from the home, keeping flooding at bay. A sump pump is installed in the lowest level of a house and is used to keep a basement or crawlspace dry.

During the installation, a pit is dug beneath the flooring (typically two feet or deeper), and the sump pump is placed in this pit. As the pit fills with water, it activates the pump which redirects the water out of the home. Different sump pumps work in different ways, but the purpose remains the same – eliminate flooding.

Causes of a Failing Sump Pump

A sump pump will only prevent water damage as long as it is working properly. Maintenance on a regular basis is the best way to spot problems with your sump pump, but there are times when a pump will fail, even with regular work.

When your sump pump seems to stop working for no reason, there are a few things to check – common reasons that a sump pump failure.

1. No power. If the power goes out, your sump pump won’t be able to drain water. A backup generator can be helpful to keep things running, even during power failures.
2. The wrong size sump pump is installed. If your sump pump is too small for your home, the amount of water it has to get rid of may be too large for it. This can cause the pump to become overworked and stop performing. A professional can help you choose the right size sump pump for your needs.
3. The sump pump is too old. Like anything, a sump pump can become worn and less efficient with wear and tear. The average lifespan of a sump pump is typically 10 years. If your sump pump is nearing the end of its life span, it may be time to start looking for a replacement.
4. Clogged discharge pipe. A discharge pipe is what releases the water away from your home. Debris and sediment can enter the pipe and cause it to become clogged and backed up. If the water has nowhere to go, the sump pump will come to a complete stop. A protective mesh or grate can help keep debris from entering the pipe, keeping water flowing freely.
5. No regular maintenance. Like we discussed earlier – regular maintenance on a sump pump will help keep things running smoothly. Clean your sump pump three to four times a year to avoid blockages.
6. The float switch is not working properly. When a sump pump moves around in its basin, the float that causes the switch to activate becomes jammed. When you clean the sump pump, check the switch position and adjust as needed.
7. Improper installation. When installing your sump pump, make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly.

If you do experience water damage due to a sump pump failure, A&J Property Restoration can provide water damage restoration services. We provide 24/7 emergency services for home and businesses around Madison and Milwaukee areas. Call us today for more information.