Common Sump Pump Failures and How to Fix Them
Sump pump installations in homes help to protect them against flooding, but there might be times when sump pumps fail. Should this happen to you, it could lead to disaster for your basement or crawlspace. If you notice that your sump pump has issues, this isn’t a cause for concern. In this blog post, we compiled a list of common sump pump failures and how to fix them.
The Sump Pump was Installed Incorrectly
Sump pump installations are an exact science and need to be done right the first time. The instructions provided by the manufacturer will need to be followed closely to prevent further water damage in the future. There are a few scenarios that need to be considered during the installation process, which are:
- A check valve will need to be installed. If this step is skipped, then water back-flow will cause the pump’s impeller to rotate incorrectly and then unscrew the motor shaft off.
- A small air relief will need to be drilled within the discharge line. The hole should be placed between the check valve and the pump which will prevent the need for the pump to overcome the discharge pipe’s air pressure.
- The sump pump must not be set in gravel or dirt. Doing this will allow debris to enter the pump and interfere with its on and off switch.
The Sump Pump is the Wrong Size
If your sump pump system is the wrong size, it could cause several sump pump problems. It’s a common myth that smaller sump pumps are less effective than larger ones– in reality, they are just as effective as their larger counterparts. As such, there is no reason to continue using a sump pump that is the incorrect size.
Buying a sump pump that’s too large will cause it to exert more effort than it needs to, which will shorten its lifespan. Similarly, a sump pump that’s too small won’t pump out enough water which will also lead to a faster breakdown of the product.
The Sump Pump Suffers from Power Failure
Another common problem among sump pump systems has to do with power failure as a result of power outages. Be sure to have a backup generator to avoid such worries with your sump pump. This is especially useful in times of a storm when power is suddenly out of service for some time.
In addition, the components in sump pump systems may be susceptible to damage due to power surges. You can prevent this issue from occurring with a surge protection device.
The Sump Pump Doesn’t Get Maintenance
Some sump pumps need to get maintenance services about every two to three months. Other sump pumps should get through a yearly check-up in time for the rainy season. Depending on the manufacturer, there will be different maintenance recommendations. However, to prevent your sump pump in Erie PA from being subject to many issues, regular maintenance is key for all sump pump systems.
Here are other maintenance tips to prevent sump pump problems:
- Check that the float’s operation isn’t restricted
- Replace your sump pump’s battery once every two or three years
- Test your pump outside to ensure that it discharges water
- Clear out the air hole by the discharge line
Contact Klein Home Solutions Today
If you’re looking for sump pump repair in Erie PA, you can count on Klein Home Solutions to provide you with the best waterproofing services available today. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, our customers trust us to provide excellent services every time. Call us today at 814-456-5605 for a free estimate.
