Your sump pump has one job: keeping your basement dry. But what happens when it stops doing that job? Water damage and mold can quickly turn your basement into a costly mess. The good news is that most sump pump failures can be prevented if you know what to look for. We’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you identify potential problems, understand their causes, and take action before it’s too late.
10 Common Sump Pump Problems & How To Fix Them
1. Your Sump Pump Stopped Working
Has your sump pump suddenly stopped working? This is one of the most serious issues you can face as a homeowner, putting your basement at immediate risk of flooding. The problem typically comes down to either electrical issues or mechanical failures, and we can help you pinpoint the cause. Start by checking your electrical connections and circuit breaker, since a simple power loss is often the culprit. If power isn’t your issue, you might be dealing with something more serious like a burned-out pump motor, clogged impeller, or failed float switch. While you can often fix electrical issues by simply resetting your circuit breaker, mechanical problems are trickier. For these, you’ll want to call in a sump pump professional to prevent further damage and ensure your pump gets back to protecting your basement.
2. Your Sump Pump is Backed Up Into Basement Mud
Are mud and debris backing up into your basement through the sump pit? This issue typically occurs when there’s a problem with the discharge line, whether it’s clogged, damaged, or improperly installed. The backup might also result from a failed check valve or an overwhelmed system during heavy rains. To resolve this issue, start by inspecting your discharge line for obvious clogs or damage. However, given the complexity of the system and the potential for future backups, professional cleaning and inspection of the entire system is often necessary to prevent recurrence.
3. Your Sump Pump Isn’t Turning On
When your sump pump fails to turn “on” as water levels rise, your basement is at immediate risk of flooding. Electrical connection problems and motor failure are common culprits. However, this problem often traces back to issues with the float switch, which can become stuck or fail entirely over time. While you can check for obvious issues like a tangled float switch or loose electrical connections, determining whether you’re dealing with a more serious problem like motor failure requires professional diagnosis.
4. Your Sump Pump Seems to Be Continuously Running
Is your sump pump running non-stop? It’s your system trying to tell you something’s wrong. Based on our experience, this usually means you’re dealing with a stuck float switch, improper adjustment, or a failed check valve. Sometimes, we find that homeowners have a pump that’s too small for their water table conditions, forcing it to work overtime. While you might be tempted to look for obvious issues like a stuck float switch yourself, getting a professional evaluation is crucial. We can determine if your pump is properly sized for your home’s needs and fix any issues before they lead to pump failure. The sooner you address this, the longer your pump will last and the better it will protect your basement.
5. You’ve Noticed Excessive Pump Vibration and Noise
Have you heard unusual sounds from your sump pump lately? Most often, we find these sounds point to an impeller that’s been damaged or thrown off balance by debris. But the culprit could also be worn-out bearings or a damaged discharge pipe shaking your whole system. Remember, a properly functioning pump should hum quietly, so when those strange noises start, it’s time for an expert look.
6. You Have a Clogged or Frozen Discharge Line
Clogs don’t always happen overnight. Sometimes, they build up gradually as debris collects in the line, like leaves and sediment. Other times, larger objects can suddenly block the pipe. That’s why proper installation is so important—the right slope helps water flow freely, and good insulation prevents freezing during those cold winter months. Notice your pump running longer than usual or water not draining from your basement? Don’t wait to get it checked out. A blocked discharge line needs immediate attention before a small problem becomes a flooded basement.
7. Your Pump Activates Too Early, Too Late, or Not at All
Incorrect float switch positioning can cause your pump to activate too early, too late, or not at all. This problem often develops gradually as the float switch mount loosens over time or after maintenance work disturbs the original setup. The float switch should move freely through its full range of motion and trigger the pump at appropriate water levels. While this might seem like a simple adjustment, improper positioning can lead to pump failure or basement flooding.
8. Your Battery Backup System Isn’t Working
Has your backup battery system failed to kick in during a power outage? This can be a scary situation, especially during severe weather when you need your sump pump most. Battery backup failures often happen because of corroded terminals, aging batteries that won’t hold a charge, or charging systems that aren’t maintaining the battery properly. While testing your backup system might seem like a hassle, it’s crucial to check it monthly. These batteries typically need replacement every 2-3 years, even with perfect maintenance. If you notice corrosion on the terminals, hear unusual alarm sounds, or your system fails during testing, don’t wait for the next big storm to address it. A working battery backup system is your last line of defense against basement flooding when the power goes out.
9. You Have Water Remaining in the Pit After Cycles
Just as your neighborhood has changed over the years, the water conditions around your home can change too. You might notice this, especially during heavy storms or when spring arrives, and all that melting snow raises the water table. Watch for these warning signs: your pump running longer than it used to, water sitting in the pit after the pump runs, or the pump constantly turning on and off during rainy weather. These are all signs that your pump is struggling to keep up with demand, and it’s time for a new one.
10. Your Old Sump Pump with a Rubber Float Isn’t Cutting It
If you’re still relying on an older model with a rubber float, you might be living with outdated technology that’s not giving your basement the protection it deserves. We’ve seen countless rubber floats deteriorate over time, leading to unreliable operation just when you need it most. Add general wear and tear on mechanical parts, and these older systems simply can’t match the protection offered by modern alternatives. Here’s our professional advice: if your pump is over seven years old and still using a rubber float, it’s time to think about upgrading to a modern system with more durable components.
Maplewood Plumbing: Troubleshooting Sump Pump Problems for 40+ Years
Don’t let sump pump problems keep you up at night. Now that you know the warning signs, you can catch issues early and prevent costly water damage. But knowing what’s wrong is only half the battle—getting it fixed right is just as important.
That’s where Maplewood Plumbing comes in. For over four decades, we’ve been the trusted name in sump pump solutions, combining old-school experience with cutting-edge technology. From trenchless pipelining to LightRay UV Repair, we offer advanced solutions that other companies simply can’t match.
Why wait for a flooded basement to take action? Call us today for a complete sump pump evaluation. Our expert team is ready to help protect your home, whether you need maintenance, repairs, or a system upgrade.
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