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Major Signs Of Sump Pump Failure That May Require A Replacement By A Plumber | Conway, SC
If you live in a flood-prone area, you need a sump pump to prevent flooding in your home. When water enters your basement, the pump drains away any water that gathers around your foundation as quickly as possible.
Like any other plumbing device, your sump pump may fail, calling for the services of a trained plumber in Conway, SC. There are many signs of sump failure that may necessitate a replacement that you need to know before you end up with a flooded basement. Here are a few that you need to pay attention to:
Strange Noises
While a sump pump will produce some noise while running, any unusual sounds may mean that it may need to be repaired or replaced. Often, a strange noise from the sump pump indicates one or more worn-out parts in the system.
If the sump produces excessive noise, it could be a failed bearing. On the other hand, a rattling or grinding noise may indicate a problem with the impeller.
You may not tell the cause of the problem until a professional inspects the unit. Your plumber will examine the issue and recommend a repair or replacement.
Excessive Vibration
A faulty impeller could be the reason your sump vibrates excessively while running. This part can bend or get damaged due to debris that your sump pump might have sucked up. Usually, the vibrations are produced when the impeller is unbalanced, causing it to wobble and cause stress on the shaft where it spins.
Unfortunately, re-bending an impeller is almost impossible, leaving you with the option of replacing the unit. A certified plumbing expert near you can help you do that quickly and safely.
Cycling Erratically
You might notice your sump pump cycling on and off frequently, even in heavy downpours. This is a telltale sign that something is off with the unit. Perhaps, it might be as simple as an improperly adjusted float switch that causes the pump to come on only when a small amount of water gets into the sump basin.
Additionally, irregular cycling may be due to wiring malfunction. A short circuit in the electrical system may result in the sump pump running at odd intervals. Even though a repair may rectify the issue, in some cases, a plumber may advise replacing the machine altogether.
The Pump Runs All the Time
A problematic switch is the primary cause of a sump pump that seems to run non-stop. Your sump pump relies on the float and controls to operate only when needed. Switch problems occur when the pump shifts inside the basin, rendering the float ineffective or causing the switch to lose connection to the power source.
If your sump pump runs all the time for no apparent reason, its capacity to handle the required water load is reduced. Thus, having a plumber come in and replace it immediately is a wise idea.
It Runs for a Long Time
Is your sump pump running for too long? Well, this means it has a low horsepower, implying a case of incorrect sump size. Calculating pump size is essential as this ultimately impacts the device’s efficiency and lifespan. That’s why you must hire a qualified plumber during pump installation. This is because the size of the sump pump will determine the volume of water it can handle and the distance it will be pumped away.
Sump size calculation includes the drain pipes and layout. Also, if the layout entails several turns and twists, the system will need more power to move water through the bends.
Plus, sump pumps that get rid of water through long drain pipes require much horsepower to remove water from the basement. So, if the sump size is insufficient for the demands, your Conway, SC plumber may help you replace the pump.
Visible Rust
Another common sign to watch out for in your sump pump is corrosion. If you notice a brownish residue on some parts of the pump, you must immediately contact a plumber for an inspection.
Remember, rust will not only clog your plumbing system but may result in severe damage over time. The problem may be due to corroded battery terminals, as in the case of battery-powered pumps, or bacteria, commonly referred to as iron bacteria.
Age of the Unit
Sump pumps need to be replaced every few years. According to The US Department of Housing and Development, the average life expectancy of a sump pump is 10 years. But the unit’s lifespan will depend on the amount of work it performs.
Generally, if your sump pump has served you for more than seven years, it is time you considered a replacement. Routine maintenance may no longer be helpful at this point.
Frequent Power Surges
Sump pumps are often wired into the home’s electrical system. Thus, some pump components may be vulnerable to failures due to power outages. In the long run, this may cause the machine to stop working completely.
It’s advisable to have a backup for your pump, and a professional plumber in Conway, SC can install a battery-powered secondary pump to the primary one, just in case. Doing this will protect you from frequent power cuts while preventing a flood in your home.
Stuck or Jammed Motor
Have you noticed a motor that seems stuck or jammed more frequently? If that’s so, the problem might be that the engine is getting damaged by sediment and other debris that gets sucked up in the main pump canister.
This can cause the pump motor to stop functioning prematurely. To keep the unit in good shape, a reputable plumber can replace the motor and offer you tips on how to maintain them.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach: Your Pump Repair and Replacement Expert!
Are you experiencing any of the above signs? Contact the professionals at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Myrtle Beach today for an appointment. With our vast industry knowledge and local expertise in sump pumps, we can help you establish the status of your pump early and take the necessary measures.