How to Tell if Your Sump Pump Has a Problem
Sump pumps work hard during the spring and summer months which bring with them heavy rains once the snow has melted. Homeowners’ policies generally exclude water that enters into or overflows from sump pumps. Meaning that an insurance rider for sump pump failure will have to be purchased separately. Also, check to see if sump pump repair is included, or you will have to pay for it out of your own pocket.
Signs That It Is Time to Replace Your Sump Pump
The first warning sign is often a basement floor that, when you step on it, goes splash. Other than that, warning signs range from:
Making strange noises
Sounds coming from your pump will often indicate worn or damaged parts. If the motor noise is excessive, then the motor may have a failed bearing. Rattling noises could mean a jammed or damaged impeller; this is the fan at the bottom that sucks water into the pump.
Vibrating Excessively when Running
Pumps that have sucked up debris will often suffer from impellers that are bent or damaged. An impeller is very similar to a propeller, except it draws things in instead of propelling them. Impellers are balanced to reduce wear on the shaft that they spin on. Once that is bent or damaged, it causes the entire thing to wobble and places stress on the shaft. The wobbling creates noise and is an indicator of future pump issues. Re-bending the impeller is almost impossible to do properly, so your only choice will be to replace the unit.
Infrequent Usage
Similar to car batteries, limited use of a sump pump reduces its shelf life. So regularly test your sump pump in between heaving rains; this will give you an early indication of problems that you can address sooner rather than later.
If you would like to make an appointment for sump pump repair, please do not hesitate to contact Kapa Plumbing & Drainage Service at (240) 203-7967 now if you live in the Gaithersburg, MD region.
