analysis: 8 Signs You Need to Replace Your Sump Pump

Protecting your basement area

Introduction:

• Your basement makes a great living space that can be used for family fun and entertainment.
• Some ideas include a home theater room – a home bar – a playroom for kids – and perhaps a guest bedroom.
• Not to mention storage facilities for food – wine – and cheese.
• The last thing you want is a sump pump that is not working.
• Surprisingly, many homeowners don’t realize when they need to invest in a new sump pump.

Below are eight obvious signs when you may need to replace your sump pump.

Sign #1: Cycling Issues

If your sump pump goes through cycles of turning on and off, it may be due to faulty parts or wiring. Additionally, the basin size could be what’s causing the abnormal cycling. Likely, the sump pump will eventually burn out if it continues to start and stop irregularly, so call a professional to replace it before it’s too late.

Sign #2: Electrical Problems

It’s simple—you shouldn’t keep a sump pump that has lost power. If you let the electrical problems persist, the entire unit will eventually fail. We know that electricity and water simply don’t mix, so it’s in your best interest to acquire a fully-operating pump.

Sign #3: It Vibrates

Does your sump pump constantly shake? This could be because it has broken impellers from sucking up debris. You certainly don’t want this to persist, as it causes stress on the entire pump. Thus, you should consider a replacement sooner rather than later.

Sign #4: It’s Moldy or Rusty

Too much moisture creates mold, which can clog your sump pump’s motor. It’s also no secret that excess water can create rust on your pump’s metal parts, and this rust can affect your sump pump’s flow and potentially clog it. On the other hand, a new sump pump will encourage proper water flow.

Quik scroll to next sign …

Sign #5: It Always Runs

Your sump pump shouldn’t run for an oddly lengthy period. And, of course, your sump pump shouldn’t be running when it’s sunny outside or when its basin is dry. Generally, when your pump runs constantly, this means you may have the wrong pump size; it doesn’t have the horsepower needed to pump the water in a realistic amount of time. Your sump pump may also have switch problems; the switch turns the sump pump on and off, and if it doesn’t work, it’ll continue to run.

If your sump pump runs for longer than five minutes, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible. If you fail to address this issue, your sump pump’s motor will suffer damage, and it may even break down entirely. Plus, you’re sure to notice an increase in your monthly utility bills.

Sign #6: It Never Runs

On the other hand, if your sump pump doesn’t turn on when you need it most, you’re in a massive predicament—you won’t have any protection against flooding. After all, when there’s water in the basin, it needs to run. Its switch may be stuck, so in this case, you should purchase a new sump pump.

Sign #7: It’s Old

With proper maintenance, you’re often able to extend your sump pump’s life. However, a sump pump’s average lifespan is between seven and ten years, so it simply can’t last forever. If you’ve had your current sump pump for several years or longer, you should replace it.

Sign #8: You Hear Unusual Noises

As a rule of thumb, sump pumps should always produce a soft humming sound. Thus, if you hear loud moaning, squealing, or whining, your sump pump may have a damaged motor. Strange sounds could also indicate there’s a different broken component within the sump pump. We recommend inspecting your sump pump and repairing its parts before the issue escalates.

end of post … please share it!