5 Warning Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Sump Pump
- May 18, 2017
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If your house has a basement or crawl space, it is likely that you have a sump pump to prevent flooding disasters. If you are not familiar with sump pumps, they are typically installed into the floor in basements and crawl spaces, and what you would usually see is the lid to the sump pump basin. The photo below shows a sump pump in a basement and sump pump in a crawl space.
When this important device is on its last legs, getting a new one is critical towards preventing costly damage. From our convenient location in Savage, MD, Value Dry has spent over 20 years helping home and business owners across southern Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. with a wide range of Basement waterproofing products and crawl space services to keep their properties safe and moisture-free.
How can you tell if your sump pump needs replacing? Pay attention to the following warning signs:
- Excessive Vibrations: As water flows through your sump pump, dirt and gravel can get sucked into the pump’s impeller. If this debris bends or damages the impellers, it can cause the entire unit to vibrate. A professional sump pump technician will be able to assess your sump pump to diagnose the problem.
- Old Age: If your sump pump is several years old, it simply may have reached the end of its useful life, especially if it runs often during rainstorms. Have your pump inspected to make sure it is still capable of preventing a basement flood.
- Rust: Constant exposure to water can encourage bacteria and rust development in your sump pump. A large accumulation of rust or bacteria in your pump, especially around the battery terminals, can lead to water flow problems in your home’s drainage system.
- Electrical Failure: The sump pump’s motor may stop working due to an electrical problem. The problem could be related to the pump itself, the battery back-up system, or with the power supply from the home. Our sump pump technician will be able to determine whether the issue is isolated to the unit’s wiring or if it affects the whole property.
- Continuously Running: If the pump is running all the time, the unit’s switch may not be working properly in turning the pump on and off. This problem is likely to occur when the pump shifts inside the basin and should be checked immediately so that the pump does not burn out.
Our team of experienced inspectors and technicians can check your sump pump system and provide recommendations for any issues. If your sump pump is giving you problems, call us at (888) 768-2583 or fill out our online form for an inspection and free estimate. Check out our website to learn more about our waterproofing services for your whole home.