06 Sep Sump pump failure | RED FLAGS |

RED FLAGS – Sump pump failure – How do you know?

A sump pump failure can result in various wet leaky basement damages. When you own a sump pump it is your first defence against a wet basement or basement flooding. However when a sump pump fails, it can make problems worse or cause flooding. Finding evidence of water in your basement when you own a sump pump can be a clear indication that your sump pump has failed. In this article the waterproofers at ACCL Waterproofing will go over the top red flags and what you should do if your sump pump fails! 

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is designed to remove water and excess moisture from your basement. The sump pump is installed at the lowest point of your basement floor. Once properly installed the sump pump system controls how water gathers beneath your home while collecting the water through a filter trap. This directs the water outside and away from foundation using a discharge pipe to prevent moisture levels rising in your home.

Most homes have a sump pit below their foundation, depending on home location and age. When gravity drainage doesn’t work, the Ontario builders code requires a sump pump to be installed. Although homeowners may decide to have a sump pump installed if their basement begins leaking or showing signs of water damage.

Why sump pumps fail?

The average lifespan for a sump pump is 10 years. Since sump pumps are mechanical devices they are prone to malfunction, especially if not maintained properly. Sump pumps run on electricity connected to your homes power supply if the power shuts off or gets disconnected your sump pump will fail. Sump pumps also come in various types, brands, and models. Depending on the model, brand, and type of pump you may have purchased a cheaply or poorly designed sump pump. Another factor in a sump pumps failure is not being installed properly.

How you can spot a sump pump failure

7 common ways a sump pump will fail on you – See Below

1. Makes strange noises:

If you hear strange sounds coming from your pump, it could indicate worn or damaged parts. A rattling or grinding noise could mean a jammed or damaged impeller. Another sound to listen for is motor noise. Noise from the motor could indicate a failed bearing.

2. Overrunning sump pump:

During heavy rain storms and winter snow thaws your sump pump will be working overtime! However in some cases the sump pump may not have the sufficient horsepower to be able to handle the volume of water pouring in.

3. Eight Years Old or Older

Regardless of maintenance and cleaning, these devices do not last forever. If yours is older than seven years, go ahead and replace it.

4. Irregular Cycling

If you notice your sump pump is cycling on and off frequently, you most likely have an issue with the float switch. The float switch is responsible for turing on the sump pump and if you notice irregular cycling it could mean your float switch is causing the pump to come on when only a few inches of water accumulate in the basin.

5. Clogged Sump Pumps and Switches

Sump pumps that become clogged either slow down or stop working entirely causing a sump pump failure. – See below for ways a sump pump can get clogged ;

• • • • • Sump Pit: The sump pit can get clogged with debris and dirt.
        • Sump Pump Mechanical Parts: If the sump pump sits straight against the bottom of a dirty sump pit, the mechanical parts will become dirty and clogged.
        • Float Switch: The float switch can become clogged or jammed causing your pump to run constantly or not at all.

6.Frequent Power Outages

When a power outage happens, or your power shuts off a traditional sump pump will stop working. Leaving some components vulnerable to damage from power surges, causing pump failure. If you live in an area that has constant or frequent power outages- Consider installing a battery backup sump pump.

7. Working sump pump but no water in sump pit?

Noticing theres no water in the sump pit can be a huge sign of an improperly installed pump, or a pump that is not linked to a drainage system. Not all contractors are waterproofing or plumbing experts Call a professional right away if you feel your sump pump hasn’t been installed correctly!

RED FLAGS ?

Have you noticed the 7 top red flags listed above during your inspection? or are not sure how to spot the signs?

Get the job done RIGHT – Hire a professional Waterproofing company!

Want to know more about keeping your sump pump maintained  or how to prevent sump pump failures ? Give us a call at 905-448-5909

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Rely On our ACCL Wet Basement Waterproofing Experts

If you need a basement underpinning renovation to increase the height and square footage of your home, or if your foundation is showing structural problems. CALL 905-448-5904 or CLICK HERE to visit our contact page.

The basement waterproofing specialists at ACCL Waterproofing know how to repair your basement and foundation walls and keep moisture out of your basement. We would be pleased to develop a guaranteed solution to keep your basement dry!

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