A properly working sump pump is your home’s top line of defense against basement flooding. The pump system removes water that accumulates in a sump pit in your basement, protecting your home from water damage, mold, and foundation stress.
However, as with all mechanical systems, sump pumps can develop problems that stop them from functioning properly.
When you need reliable plumbers in Bainbridge, GA, Cooper’s Plumbing & Air is the team to call. Read on below as we discuss some of the most common sump pump issues our experts encounter.
1. Power Failure
Sump pumps rely on electricity to function. However, homeowners need these systems most when the chance of a power outage is greatest — during severe weather. Unless you have installed a battery backup or generator, your pump simply will not activate at these critical times.
We’ve seen multiple cases where something as simple as a tripped circuit breaker or unplugged pump leads to a flooding emergency.
Professional Solution
Technicians can install a battery backup system to protect against power outages. In homes prone to flooding, a secondary backup pump may be essential. Regular inspection of the electrical connections helps make sure your pump is ready when you need it.
Risk of Delay
Delaying repairs or backup installation leaves your home exposed to basement flooding, which can result in structural damage, ruined personal property, and mold growth.
2. Float Switch Problems
The float switch activates the sump pump when water levels rise above a preset level in the sump pit. If the switch becomes stuck due to debris or improper setup, the pump may not activate properly or at all when you need it to. Without regular maintenance, tangled wires or debris inside the sump pit are the primary causes of switch malfunction.
Professional Solution
A technician can reposition or replace the float switch and clear any debris that interferes with its movement. They’ll also inspect the wiring to ensure everything works smoothly.
Risk of Delay
Ignoring float switch sump pump issues can lead to uncontrolled water accumulation in the pit, leading to overflowing and basement flooding.
3. Clogged Sump Pump or Discharge Pipe
Over time, sump pumps and their discharge pipes can become clogged with dirt, sediment, or debris. In the coldest days of winter, discharge lines may freeze, blocking proper drainage out of the system. Blockages can quickly overwhelm the pump, leaving your basement open to flooding.
Professional Solution
A qualified plumber will unclog the pump and pipe to restore water flow. They may also install specially designed covers to protect the sump pit from debris and add freeze guards to the discharge pipes to insulate against very cold weather.
Risk of Delay
Without timely intervention, a clogged sump pump won’t effectively remove water from the pit, increasing the risk of serious drainage issues and flooding during heavy rains.
4. Pump Overload or Burnout
A pump that is too small for the volume of water it needs to manage sometimes runs continuously in a losing battle against rising water. This overwork often leads to motor burnout. Sometimes, we find that older pumps nearing the end of their lifespan can simply stop working without warning, leaving homeowners caught off guard when storms hit.
Professional Solution
A plumbing professional can assess the size and capacity of your existing sump pump to make sure it meets your home’s needs. If necessary, they will recommend you install a higher-capacity model to prevent overloads and failures.
Risk of Delay
A burnt-out pump simply will not activate during a storm, exposing your home to serious sump pump issues like flooding and expensive water damage.
5. Improper Installation or Lack of Regular Inspections
Incorrect installation often involves improper placement of the float switch or misaligned discharge pipes. Sump pumps are complex systems and require precise calibration to perform correctly when necessary. Any home that misses regular inspections is more likely to encounter mechanical failures, clogged pipes, or other preventable problems.
Professional Solution
During regular inspections, technicians will verify the sump pump’s setup to ensure proper installation. Inexpensive check-ups help you address small issues before they lead to costly failures.
Risk of Delay
A neglected pump is prone to malfunctioning at the worst possible time.
6. Stuck or Faulty Check Valve
The check valve in the sump pump system prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit after it’s pumped out. If the valve sticks or fails, the pump can run continuously in the fight against back-flowing water. This wastes energy and endangers the motor.
Professional Solution
A professional plumber will inspect the valve to confirm that it is functioning correctly and replace it if necessary. They will also confirm proper valve installation to prevent water backflow into the pit.
Risk of Delay
A faulty valve can cause the pump to overwork and eventually burn out, leaving your home exposed to flooding risks.
Why Professional Plumbing Help Matters
Putting off necessary repairs for any of these common sump pump issues can lead to much larger problems. Don’t face the unnecessary risk of basement flooding, electrical hazards, or mold infestation.
In addition to keeping an eye out for the problems we’ve described above, it’s also a great idea to schedule regular inspections and sump pump maintenance as the best preventative care. This inexpensive effort helps head off small issues before they lead to a system failure during bad weather.
Protect Your Home From Flooding With Cooper’s Plumbing & Air
If your sump pump isn’t working or you want to prevent sump pump issues, don’t wait — contact Cooper’s Plumbing & Air today. In addition to routine repairs and maintenance, our experts are also available 24/7 for emergency service.
We have more than 20 years of experience serving Bainbridge, Georgia, and the surrounding region. Whether you need help with a clogged sump pump, float switch problems, or drainage issues, we can handle any drainage system trouble. We provide comprehensive plumbing services, including repairs, drain cleaning, and increasing water pressure.
Call Cooper’s Plumbing & Air today at (229) 246-2539 to schedule service!