Sump Pump Maintenance - Some Signs You May Need Repair
If you’re moving into a new home, we highly recommend you schedule a sump pump inspection. This will help to protect all the belongings you’re moving into the basement from water damage. After moving, you should have your sump pump inspected about twice a year. Call a technician if you notice any of the following between inspections:
- Your sump pump is making frequent, strange noises
- Your sump pump is emitting a burning smell
- Your sump pump is rapidly cycling
- Your electric bill is unusually high
Sump Pump Repair & Replacement
Sump pumps can stop working or require service for a variety of reasons. Our plumbing technicians can help you diagnose common issues such as clogged with debris, improper filtration, electrical issues and more.
Sump Pump Installation - Some Signs You May Need One
In addition to the obvious flooding, there are a few other reasons you may consider installing a basement sump pump:
- If your basement floor or walls are constantly damp
- If you live in a high-water table area or on a flood plain
There are a few different types of sump pumps to choose from: pedestal pump, heavy duty, submersible and battery backup. After an inspection of your home and family needs, our plumbing technicians can recommend the best type for you.
Sump Pump Backup
Because your sump pump is dependent on your home’s electrical system, it’s very important that you have a backup plan in the case that the power goes. Your basement sump pump can be backed up by a standby generator or by a battery backup sump pump. Our plumbing technicians would be happy to discuss the pros and cons of each with you.
Sump Pump FAQ
If you answer yes to one or more of these questions, you should consider installing a sump pump.
- Has your basement flooded before?
- Do you live in a flat or low area?
- Do you live in an area where it rains or snows frequently?
- Do you have a finished basement with possessions you wouldn’t want destroyed by water damage or mold?
For sump pump repair, installation and maintenance needs, contact the sump pump experts at Certified Services.
The most common cause for sump pump failure is an electrical power outage, which is why we highly recommend the addition of a battery back up sump when installing or repairing a sump pump. In the case that your first pump fails, the battery backup sump pump will kick in. Other common causes for failure include an incorrectly sized pump, an incorrectly installed pump, and mechanical problems.
Read how to choose a sump pump backup system and how to prepare for a sump pump emergency.
Water damage from a sump pump that fails and overflows can be costly. Fortunately, most insurance companies offer coverage that helps mitigate the cost of sump pump failure.
Be sure to review your homeowner’s policy and add coverage that’s specific to water damage due to sump pump failure.
If your sump pump stops working, walk through these steps:
- Turn off the power, if it’s not off already, before touching the pump.
- Inspect the sump pump’s plug to ensure it is working correctly. Sometimes, plugs become defective.
- Make sure the float switch is working. If it’s not, is anything preventing it from moving?
- Check to see if any pipes are blocked.
- Inspect the drain pipes for any debris.
If your sump pump has stopped working, and after doing your assessment, call the sump pump experts at Certified Services to correct the issues as soon as possible.
On average, sump pump replacement or installation costs between $600-$2000. This estimate depends on the type of sump pump you select, the type of basement floor you have (and if anything needs to be done to it), and several other installation factors.
It is not normal for a sump pump to continuously run. When a pump is in constant operation, it can begin to overheat and break down – especially if there is no water in the pit. Some common causes for pumps that constantly run are:
- Jammed sump pump float switch
- A check valve that’s not operating correctly
- Drainage and plumbing issues
If your sump pump is continuously running, contact the licensed team at Certified Services today.
Our 24-Hour Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Company Proudly Serves Cuyahoga, Lorain, Medina and Surrounding Areas
Certified Services is your go-to solution for whole home maintenance. Call today to discuss the problem you’re experiencing with a certified technician: 440-652-5000.
