Has your sump pump been acting up? Given the recent weather patterns, this occurrence is not uncommon for us Ohioan residents. We are well aware that Ohio weather has a knack for causing a fair share of home-related issues. With the combination of snow melt and incessant rain during the winter season, sump pump problems are, dare we say, at their peak. And when your sump pump stops operating, we highly advise against postponing its repair. Flooded basements and water damage, among other undesirable consequences, are not situations we wish upon our valued customers.
Sump pumps are specifically designed to efficiently remove water through the discharge pipe and redirect it away from your home’s foundation, ensuring its safety. However, when a sump pump unexpectedly malfunctions, it can swiftly result in basement flooding, leading to a series of other potential disasters. Fortunately, the experts at Mason Plumbing & Drain are here to assist you! Here a eight helpful ways you can troubleshoot a malfunctioning sump pump. In fact, even if you are not currently experiencing issues with your sump pump, keeping these steps in your back pocket may turn out benficial one day.
TROUBLESHOOTING STEPS TO PINPOINT THE ISSUE:
1. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE POWER SUPPLY?
Power outages often contribute to sump pump malfunctions. Whether caused by severe storms or tripped circuit breakers, if your sump pump stops working, the initial step is to confirm that it is plugged in and receiving power. Additionally, test the outlet with another device to determine if it is the source of the problem. Restarting the pump by unplugging and plugging it back in may provide a temporary solution, although it should be noted that this might not be a long-term fix.
2. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE PUMP MOTOR?
Pay attention to any abnormal sounds emanating from the pump motor. If the motor is not operational, inspect the circuit breaker and reset it as needed.
3. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE SUMP PUMP PIT?
Now, moving on to the basin of the sump pump, try checking the inside to figure out what’s going on. Inspect the sump pump basin for debris, dirt, or even ice accumulation. Should you find any, be sure to remove any debris that could obstruct the pump’s impeller.
3. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE FLOAT SWITCH?
Proceed to examine the float switch for correct movement. Ensure there is no debris obstructing its motion and verify that the float switch moves unrestrictedly. A float that is stuck or frozen will undoubtedly fail to activate the pump as needed.
4. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE CHECK (OR OVERFLOW) VALVE?
Make sure the check valve is properly installed. Ensure no debris obstructs the valve and check for any potential blockages in the pipe above it, which may hinder the check valve’s functionality. When operating correctly, the check valve will prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit.
5. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE DISCHARGE PIPE?
In the event of a flooded basement and inadequate water discharge, it is highly probable that the discharge pipe is obstructed. So, direct your attention to identifying and examining the discharge pipe, confirming there are no clogs.
6. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE WEEPING HOLE?
One important aspect to inspect is the weeping hole. Sump pumps typically have a small hole on the discharge pipe, which serves the purpose of releasing air and ensuring proper functionality. If this weeping hole becomes obstructed, the pump will not operate effectively. In the event this is the case for you, try clearing it out to see if that resolves the issue.
7. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE PUMP’S SIZE?
If a sump pump is inadequately sized for your area, it will be unable to handle the large amounts of water being directed towards it. So, if this is actually a problem that has occurred for you repeatedly, it may be time to contemplate an upgrade in order to prevent this recurring issue.
You can do this! With a determined mindset and focused DIY troubleshooting, you should be able to identify the root cause of your sump pump problem. Dealing with sump pump issues in cold weather can be challenging, but remember that prioritizing safety is crucial. Furthermore, take your time, proceed cautiously, and carefully evaluate your situation as you progress through each troubleshooting step.
CONSULTING A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER:
If you’re still perplexed and seeking answers, rest assured that we are here to help. In the event that these troubleshooting steps have not successfully resolved the issue, we kindly recommend reaching out to us for a professional diagnosis and restoration of your sump pump functionality. Remember, it is crucial to engage a licensed plumber to thoroughly inspect your sump pump and identify any underlying issues.
MAINTAINING YOUR SUMP PUMP WITH THESE TIPS:
Before concluding, here are a few valuable recommendations to assist in maintaining the functionality of your sump pump in the future:
To ensure smooth operation and prevent any mishaps, it is advisable to develop a habit of periodically inspecting it. Simply ensure that all components are functioning properly and there are no unusual noises emanating from the pump. On top of that, bear in mind that maintaining a clutter-free and debris-free area around the sump pump is crucial. Loose debris can significantly contribute to various sump pump issues. The accumulation of loose debris and other particles can result in clogs and hinder the functionality of your sump pump. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure that the sump pump pit lid is consistently and securely in place and effectively sealed to prevent the entry of unwanted particles. A properly sealed lid will effectively safeguard the pit from debris intrusion, ensuring optimal pump performance.
Your plumbing system is a crucial component of your home, and it is susceptible to various issues. Therefore, you should only entrust your home to a reliable professional. At Mason Plumbing & Drain, we endeavor to be just that. Our customers are our utmost priority, and we highly value your safety, comfort, and satisfaction. Moreover, we place a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and strive to provide you with a guarantee of 100% satisfaction!
You can trust Mason Plumbing & Drain to handle all your plumbing needs with expertise and reliability. Call us today at (513) 298-6996, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!