Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure and What to Do
Sump pumps fail for various reasons, ranging from power outages, neglect, old age, or incorrect installation. Below are some of the most common causes of sump pump repair to total failure is:
Check valve failure
When this fails, the water that gets pumped out will flow back into the sump pump pit, which reduces the amount of water removed each cycle while increasing the frequency of cycles, all of which can result in the pump failing prematurely. The most common mechanical failure happens when the switch is stuck in the ON or OFF position – this will cause the pump to run non-stop, or worst-case scenario, not at all.
Check valve failure
Switches are relatively inexpensive when it comes to replacement. Some homeowners install a new pump in their sump basin; however, keep the older pump, along with a new switch, as an emergency backup.
Float stuck power failure
This is responsible for the operation of the on and off switch. If the pump begins to shift inside the basin, then the float is pressed against the side of the basin. Other objects found in the sump basin, such as sand or pea stone, can also impede this. So first check to see if the float has become stuck on something. If this proves to be the case, unplug the pump and remove the obstacle. And, if necessary, you may have to reposition the pump so that the float will not become stuck again.
Motor failure
Another cause of sump pump failure is the burn-out of the motor. The voltage from the supply will steadily increase until the pump overheats and switches off. This can occur when the sump pump is overworked, due to a sub-standard or undersized pump. If the sump pump’s motor is not big enough, then the water may be entering the basin or pit faster than it is pumped out.
For more details on our sump pump repair services, please do not hesitate to contact us at this number (240) 203-7967, to make an appointment with Kapa Plumbing & Drainage Service, we are based in the Gaithersburg, MD area.
