Is your sump pump giving you trouble? Given the recent weather in our area, this is a common occurrence. With snowmelt and rain persisting throughout the winter, sump pump problems are quite prevalent. We firmly believe that it is crucial not to delay if your sump pump stops working. Sump pumps are specifically designed to pump water out through the discharge pipe and redirect excess water away from your home’s foundation.
If your sump pump suddenly stops working, it can quickly result in basement flooding and other potential disasters. Fortunately, our team at Cincinnati Plumbing & Drain is here to help! We can assist you with troubleshooting and provide proactive solutions. And if you’re not dealing with any sump pump problems, don’t wait for an issue to occur. Familiarize yourself today with how to troubleshoot potential problems!
8 Helpful Troubleshooting Steps If Your Sump Pump Isn’t Working
- Check the Power Supply: Power outages are a major cause of sump pump malfunctions. Whether it’s due to a severe storm or a tripped circuit breaker, if your sump pump stops working, the first step is to check if it’s plugged in and receiving power. If not, test the outlet with another device to determine if the outlet is the issue. You can also try restarting the pump by unplugging and plugging it back in. Keep in mind that this may only provide a temporary solution.
- Test the Pump Motor: Please listen for any unusual noises from the pump motor. If the motor is not running, then check the circuit breaker and reset it if necessary.
- Examine the Pump Basin: Next, it’s also important to inspect the inside to determine the situation. Take a look at the sump pump basin for any debris, dirt, or ice buildup. If you come across any, make sure to remove it to prevent any obstruction to the pump’s impeller.
- Inspect the Float Switch: Proceed to inspect the float switch for proper movement. A pump may cease operating if it has been excessively used, particularly during peak seasons. Take note of any debris that requires clearing and ensure that the float switch moves freely. A stuck or frozen float will undoubtedly hinder the pump from functioning as intended.
- Test the Check (or Overflow) Valve: Now, you should make sure your check valve is in place and functioning properly. Be sure to check for any debris obstructing the valve and clear it if necessary. Also, inspect the pipe above for potential blockages that may hinder the correct functioning of the check valve. When operating as intended, the check valve will effectively prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit.
- Inspect the Discharge Pipe: If you find that your basement is flooded and the water is not being discharged away from your home, it is highly likely that the discharge pipe is clogged. In this case, it is recommended that you focus your attention on locating and inspecting the discharge pipe.
- Clear the Weeping Hole: One more thing to check is the weeping hole. Your sump pump should have a small hole on the discharge pipe that is designed to release air and ensure proper functioning. When this weeping hole becomes blocked, the pump will not operate correctly. If there is a clog in the weeping hole, it will need to be cleared out.
- Consider an Overwhelmed Pump: If a sump pump is not properly sized for your space, it will be unable to handle the large volumes of water it receives. If you have experienced this issue multiple times, it may be time to consider an upgrade to prevent it from recurring.
You’ve got this! With determination and focused troubleshooting, you can identify the cause of your sump pump problem. Dealing with sump pump issues in cold weather can be challenging, but remember to prioritize safety. Take your time, proceed cautiously, and carefully work through each troubleshooting step to assess the situation.
Here are Some Tips for Maintaining Your Sump Pump
Loose debris can cause some serious issues with your sump pump. When debris and particles start piling up, it can lead to clogs and disrupt the proper functioning of the pump. Even random stuff and clutter near the pump can contribute to this problem. That’s why it’s so important to make sure the lid of your sump pump pit is securely in place and properly sealed. A tight lid will keep debris out and prevent any interference with the pump. So, don’t forget to check that lid!
Another thing to keep an ear out for is any loud or irregular noises coming from your sump pump. If you hear anything unusual, try to figure out what’s going on. And if you can’t, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Being proactive about spotting potential issues will help you catch small problems before they turn into big headaches. That’s why it’s important to regularly keep an eye on your sump pump.
CONSULTING A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER
If you’re still puzzled and trying to understand what’s happening, don’t worry; we’re here to help! If you’ve followed these troubleshooting steps and the issue still persists, we recommend reaching out to our team for professional diagnosis and assistance in getting your sump pump back up and running. It’s crucial to have a licensed plumber inspect your sump pump and identify any underlying problems. Rest assured, our experienced team is well-equipped to handle all your home service needs. Contact us today for prompt and reliable assistance.
At Cincinnati Plumbing & Drain, we understand the significance of a well-functioning plumbing system in your home. With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to handle all your home service needs. Our top priority is your safety, comfort, and satisfaction. We offer a wide range of services, including plumbing, HVAC, and electrical, ensuring that you get the most reliable solutions for your home. When you choose us, you’ll receive the highest quality service and the best value for your investment.
Make Cincinnati Plumbing & Drain your go-to solution for all your plumbing needs. Count on our expertise and experience to tackle any issue you may have. Call us at (513) 463 – 6947 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
