If your sump pump stops working or starts acting strangely, you might assume that you need to replace it immediately. But before you do that, it’s best to take a few minutes to look at a few things. You may be able to resolve the issue yourself or at least find out what’s causing the problem.
As the most trusted sump pump replacement company in Mount Prospect, Illinois, our team at R Carrozza Plumbing Co. is going to explain some of the key things you should look for before you decide to replace your sump pump.
Start with a quick safety check.
Before anything else, unplug the sump pump. If it is wired into the home, flip the breaker. This will keep you safe from shock while working near water.
Once the power is off, get a flashlight and a pair of gloves. If the pit has any sludge, stones, or broken parts, you will want some protection.
Look inside the pit.
Lift the lid and shine your light inside. If there is mud, gravel, or other junk at the bottom, that could be the problem. Too much buildup can prevent the pump from working.
Check the float switch while you are in there. This part controls the pump’s on and off operation. If the float switch is stuck or jammed, the pump may run too long or not start at all.
You should also check the pump itself. Look for signs of rust, cracks, or any other indications of corrosion. These are signs that the pump may be reaching the end of its life.
Run a water test.
After the inspection, plug the pump back in and test it. Slowly pour a few gallons of water into the pit. Watch the float switch to see if it rises and activates the pump. After the water drains, make sure the pump shuts off again.
While the pump is running, listen for grinding, rattling, or buzzing sounds. These noises may indicate that the motor or impeller is damaged.
If the float does not rise or the pump continues to run even when the pit is empty, there is a problem.
Check the discharge line and valve.
Even if the pump runs, the water still needs to go somewhere. Follow the discharge pipe outside. If it is leaking or sending water back toward the house, you have a problem.
Make sure you have a check valve on the line. It keeps water from flowing back into the pit after the pump shuts off. If water comes back in, the pump may short cycle.
Check the power and backup system.
Your sump pump should be plugged into a grounded GFCI outlet. This type of outlet shuts off if there is a risk of shock. If it trips frequently or looks damaged, try plugging in another device to see if the outlet is still working.
If you have a backup system, test it the same way you test the main pump. Pour water in and see if it turns on. The battery should also be in a water-safe case and raised off the floor.
A working backup system protects your home when the weather or power becomes a problem. That’s why an experienced sump pump replacement company in Mount Prospect, Illinois will ask about your backup setup when updating or installing a new system.
Know when it is time to replace
Most sump pumps last between 7 and 10 years. But if yours is making odd sounds, turning on and off all the time, or the float switch keeps sticking, it may be time to replace it.
Rust, cracks, or leaks are also clear signs. And if your home has had water in the basement before, you should replace the pump before it fails again.
When you are ready, you can get in touch with a trusted sump pump replacement company in Mount Prospect, Illinois. A good team will inspect your pit size, float range, and discharge pipe, and discuss whether a pedestal or submersible model works better for your setup.
Looking for a Sump Pump Replacement Company in Mount Prospect, Illinois?
Are you ready to replace your outdated sump pump? If so, and if you’re looking for the top-rated sump pump replacement company in Mount Prospect, Illinois, look no further than R Carrozza Plumbing Co. Contact us today at (847) 451-7040 to schedule a service.