How Long Do Sump Pumps Last?
- September 17, 2020
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A lot of our customers ask us, “How long do sump pumps last?” Here’s what we tell them. It depends! How long a sump pump lasts depends on a number of factors, including:
- Whether it is sized properly for the job it needs to do
- How often the pump needs to come on or ‘cycles’
- How long the pump runs when it comes on
- How high the water table is near your home
- If there is a second sump pump in the system
- If it is a quality sump pump – stainless, cast iron, or plastic
- If the sump well takes on debris
- If the sump well is cleaned out regularly
- If the sump pump is discharging well away from the home or recycling water
- And more
Just like a car engine or any machine, the harder your sump pump works, the shorter its lifespan. That being said, typically, sump pumps last seven to 10 years. Value Dry has installed some that have lasted for over 18 years. Although rare, we have had sump pumps fail within the first year.
The Mid-Atlantic region gets some pretty serious storm systems, including tropical storms. Several days of heavy rainfall may make it seem like your sump pump runs constantly. In reality, the sump pump is cycling on and off, but the more water it has to deal with, the longer it will run between cycling off.
When your home is on a lot that gets more groundwater than the neighbor, your pump will run more often. It may take several days after a big storm for your sump pump system to catch up. A sump pump that runs longer and harder won’t last as long as one that rarely cycles on.
Signs You Need to Schedule Sump Pump Replacement
If you are unsure how old your sump pump is or you’ve had it for a number of years, there are several signs that it’s time for sump pump replacement. They include:
- The pump motor sounds different, as in making clunking, clanking, or grinding noises. Or it just noticeably louder.
- You hear water collecting or can see it in the pump well, but the pump isn’t running
- The sump pump alarm (if you have one) indicates the pump is malfunctioning
- The sump pump runs even in dry weather
- The sump pump well shows signs of rust and deterioration
- The sump pump well is emitting some burning or oily odors when the pump runs
- The pump is approaching 10 years old
In general, it is difficult to repair sump pumps since they are submersible and sealed by the factory. For malfunctioning or older pumps, replacement is always the recommended course of action. Today’s sump pumps are much more efficient and many come with alarm systems and battery back up sump pumps to alert you when there is a problem with your main pump, as well as protect your home by turning on the backup.
Schedule Sump Pump Installation
We offer fast and affordable sump pump installation and basement waterproofing services to Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia panhandle, and Delaware homeowners and businesses. Call Value Dry Waterproofing at (888) 768-2583 or use the contact form to schedule a free inspection.