Sump Pump Problems

A sump pump going kaput is no better than a nightmare. When a sump pump sustains damage or any sort of problem, it is us who suffer in the bargain; and who can forget the basement ceiling and walls that sustain wet patches, mildew and molds hatching on the surface. The misty smell is a bonus to the one who visits the basement area. Presented here are some of the common sump pump problems with their solutions. I am sure you would be in the position to identify with the problem and seek an applicable solution to counter the same.

Sump Pump Problems and Solutions

Problem #1
There could be some trouble with the drain pipes of the sump pump. The first and the foremost step is to disconnect the drain pipes and switch on the pump. Check for the water flow. If you see that the water flows relentlessly out of the pump, then there are chances that there may be some hindrance such as debris coming in the way of the drain from where the water is thrown out.

Problem #2
Touch the pump and have a feel of it. Is the pump vibrating? If it is, the condition of the pump is normal. As the pump is vibrating when switched on and is not throwing the water through itself, then the pump is in working condition. If this is not the problem, then there could be an inbuilt defect in the pump itself requiring a sump pump repair.

Problem #3
The pump screen may have developed some defect. Your sump pump may have a cover. Remove the cover and place it on the side. If you find any debris or any other type of obstruction, make it a point that you clean the screen thoroughly well. Spring clean the sump before you place the pump back into place.

Problem #4
Make sure that the float switch is working. The float switch has an electrical connection. The defect lies in the movement of the cord. A float switch should not have a restricted movement. If the movement is stunted, you could check with the cause that is halting its normal and regular movement.

Problem #5
The source of power plays a very important role in detecting if there is any defect with the working of the pump. Check if there is any trouble with the switch through which the pump is supposed to receive power. Make sure that the switch is turned on. If the switch is what is creating the trouble due to non functionality, change the switch by replacing it with a new one.

Problem #6
Check the placement of the pump. Sometimes when the sump pump is placed around dirt and muck, the particles may travel into the pump which may further create problems with the efficient functioning of the pump. Ensure that the place where the sump pump is installed is kept clean.

Problem #7
Make sure that the pump that you install should be in accordance with the space it has to cover to drain out water. There may be chances that the sump pump is not functioning well, because of it being too small. It may be possible that the pump has to make an extra effort to work and drain out water through the connecting drain pipes. This problem may thus, create troubles with the overall functioning of the sump pump.

Sump pump problems may arise due to minor defects that may be dealt without any worries. The only trick, rather presence of mind lies in how and when you detect the problem.