Flooded basements, ruined flooring, and huge messes are things that can happen after a sump pump failure in your Jacksonville home. If your sump pump stops working, you need to figure out the root problem to prevent costly damage. Before you assume you need sump pump replacement, check out these troubleshooting tips from qualified plumbing professionals.
Make Sure the Pump’s Getting Power
Sump pumps need electricity to work. If a storm rolled through that knocked out power, yet the pump didn’t turn back on after power restoration, check the main electrical panel. Circuits trip and you might have to flip the switch to the “on” position manually. Also, make sure the cord’s plugged into the outlet. Sometimes, these cords get unplugged. To prevent power issues from affecting your home’s sump pump, consider installing a battery-operated backup sump pump.
Is the Sump Pump Clogged?
Debris stuck in sump pits cause pump failures more often than you think. Check for clogs by removing the sump’s lid. Use a flashlight to see inside the dark space. What you find might surprise you. It’s not unusual for household items to end up in the pit. Remove any obvious debris or objects and replace the lid. Test the sump’s function. Pour water into the pit until water levels rise high enough to trigger the pump’s float.
Impellers also get clogged from time to time. To get the pump working again, clean the impeller. If this doesn’t fix the problem, call a licensed plumber to replace it.
Other reasons for sump pump malfunction include:
- Malfunctioning float
- Leaky discharge pipe
- Clogged weep hole
Get an Inspection to Prevent Sump Pump Damage
Spring brings warmer temperatures, but it also serves up its fair share of heavy rainstorms. Make sure your sump pump’s ready to handle the extra load. Schedule a professional sump inspection to get ahead of any problems.
If you need sump pump replacement, get in touch with qualified plumbing professionals today. Prevent basement flooding and keep your home dry by calling HRI Plumbing for all your residential plumbing services.
