What Can Cause Your Sump Pump to Fail?
There are several common causes for a sump pump to fail. A clogged or frozen discharge pipe, power outages, and a faulty installation are all possible culprits. However, you can avoid basement flooding by utilizing a second, battery-operated sump pump. If the first fails, here are some tips for getting it working again. Also, if the last one did, be sure to check the float sensor.
Power outage
A power outage can ruin your basement, but there are a few ways to avoid it. One way is to invest in a backup battery or generator for your sump pump. A backup battery can keep your pump working during a power outage, which can last anywhere from six to eight hours. Another way is to get a battery backup sump pump and connect it to a dedicated circuit. A battery backup will keep your basement dry during a power outage.
The most common reason for a power outage is the loss of electrical power. During a rainstorm, a power outage can result in flooding in your basement. In 2016, the average U.S. home was without power for about four hours. If the storm is particularly severe, you could be without power for days or weeks. If the power outage is long enough, your sump pump could stop working completely, leaving you without a basement.
A power outage is another common reason for a sump pump to stop working. If the power goes out in your home during a storm, the pump will no longer work. To solve the issue, you will have to install a back-up pump that runs on water instead of electricity. It is important to disconnect the power supply from the sump pump to avoid an electric shock. In addition, if you are using a battery backup, you need to make sure that it has sufficient power to run your sump pump.
Another reason for a power outage can cause your sump pump to stop working is due to an accumulation of snow in the sump basin. If your sump pump has a small capacity, the water will be too high to push through. An overloaded sump pump will eventually burn out or overwork. To prevent this, you should invest in a couple of backup units. This way, you will not be forced to replace it if it doesn’t work.
Another common cause of a power outage is a clogged discharge pipe. Some sump pumps can even be Wi-Fi enabled. If you have a backup sump pump, you can have it tested periodically to ensure that it will continue to run without a problem. If your battery dies, the backup unit won’t work. When testing the backup unit, be sure to check the discharge line airhole and the battery.
The best way to avoid a power outage is to invest in a battery backup sump pump. This will keep the pump running even in a power outage. In addition, many sump pumps also have a water-powered backup system, which means it can use your home’s water supply to remove water when the primary battery is not working. During power outages, the battery backup may be insufficient to keep your basement dry, but a backup battery will be a lifesaver.
Clogged or frozen discharge pipe
A clogged or frozen discharge pipe can also cause your sump pump to fail. This is particularly common in cold weather. Your sump pump should discharge water into a drainage area away from the pump’s impellor and discharge pipe. If these two components are not working properly, it may be time to replace your sump pump. To check the discharge pipe, you can use vinegar or other household cleaner.
Power failure can also cause your sump pump to fail. During a storm, the power might go out. If this happens, your basement may flood rapidly. A back-up sump pump should be installed. This back-up sump pump works off your home’s municipal water pressure. It is important to have one of these so your main pump will continue to function even if the power fails.
If your sump pump is installed on an old house, the discharge pipe is probably not connected to a storm drain. If your discharge pipe is attached to a large tree that’s close to your foundation, a mature tree root can crush the discharge pipe. While this is a rare occurrence, it is possible to make your sump pump fail. However, you can prevent this from happening by following several guidelines.
If you’ve noticed a grinding noise coming from your sump pump, the problem may be a clogged or frozen discharge pipe. If this is the case, you should seek out a licensed technician to repair the sump pump or retrofit the discharge pipe position. You should also keep the drainage system clean and clear of debris so that water doesn’t overflow into the pump pit.
If you don’t have an appropriate sump basin, you may want to consider installing a lid over the bottom of the sump pit. The lid will keep debris out and prevent the pump from freezing up in the winter. Also, make sure the drain pipe is at least a foot below the frost line. If you have a sump pit without a lid, dirt will accumulate in the pit, clogging the pump. It’s easy to clog a sump pump when it’s not covered properly. If you’re unsure, unplug it and check it for clogging.
Another reason your sump pump might fail is a clogged or frozen discharge pipe. If you live in a cold area, you should consider installing an IceGuard attachment to prevent water from freezing in the discharge pipe. The FreezeGuard helps keep your basement dry year-round. The FreezeGuard will also prevent the discharge pipe from becoming obstructed by debris.
Another common reason for a sump pump to fail is a clogged or frozen discharge pipe. The discharge pipe connects the sump pit with the exterior area of your home. If it becomes clogged or frozen, the sump pump will not be able to pump water out. A high-quality sump pump can keep your basement dry and free from water. Some systems are even equipped with a battery backup system.
Float sensor failure
A malfunctioning float sensor can cause your sump pump to run continuously. It is responsible for smoothly functioning the on/off switch on the pump. A malfunctioning switch can be a result of the pump shifting inside the basin or losing the electrical connection. Additionally, improperly installed pumps can push the switch against the side of the container. These are some of the main causes of float sensor failure.
Before you try to repair a faulty float sensor, you need to first check the wiring. A simple electrical connection may cause chaffed insulation on the switch or push rod. Another problem can be overcycling of the switch, which can result in the drain back of water. The switch may also be prematurely broken due to a manufacturing defect, plating, or an excessive current draw from the pump motor. A sump pump’s life expectancy is around 10 years, but its lifespan is influenced by the number of starts and stops.
If the pump’s discharge pipe has sediment in it, the pump motor may fail prematurely. A dirty sump pit can also cause sediment to clog the float switch and jam it. Additionally, a defective sump pump can be caused by an electrical failure or a malfunction in its internal wiring. Ultimately, the most common reason for a sump pump failure is a malfunctioning float sensor.
If you notice a leaking basement or water on the ground, it’s a sure sign of a faulty sump pump. Not only will you have a flooded basement, but you will also experience a number of health problems due to dampness, including cracked brickwork, faulty foundations, and black mold. A fully functional sump pump will avoid all of these problems.
When your pump’s float switch fails, it will cause the pump to run dry. If the pump is not running, then you should disconnect it immediately. A failed float switch can result in a flooded basement or even worse. If you’re in a flood-prone area, you may want to make sure the doors are completely sealed to keep water out. If you live in a region that floods frequently, you may want to take a look at the waterproofing system and consider installing the sump pump.
Float switches are a common feature in sump pumps. However, they can fail. When this happens, they can cause malfunctions or damage to your equipment. You can either replace the sensor or replace it with the same model. Float sensors need to be replaced regularly, but don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.