What Are the Causes of Sump Pump Failures?

Sump pumps are valuable tools that help keep your basement dry, even during the wettest seasons. They’re designed to prevent water from entering your basement. However, no machine is perfect.

So, what do you do if your sump pump stops working? What could cause a well-maintained sump pump to fail?

Sump Pump Problem Signs

A reliable sump pump is designed to easily protect your home from water damage. However, homeowners may not always realize there’s an issue with their sump pump until it’s too late. So, what are the warning signs of pump failure you should watch out for?

Flooded Basement

This is the most obvious sign of sump pump failure. The sump pump is meant to prevent flooding, so if it can’t move enough water out in time, your basement may flood. A flooded basement can cause serious damage to stored belongings and even the foundation if water is left standing for too long. Prolonged exposure to water can lead to foundation shifts or fractures, causing more problems down the line.

Water Damage

The sump pump should remove all water from your basement, not just some. If you notice small puddles on the floor or water trickling down the walls, it’s a clear indication that your sump pump isn’t functioning properly.

Causes of Sump Pump Failure

Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize their sump pump has failed until they discover their basement or crawl space is flooded, which can be both frustrating and overwhelming. Here are some common causes of sump pump failure to be aware of:

Dead Battery or Electrical Damage

If your sump pump is battery-operated, a dead battery could be the issue. Sump pumps can move thousands of gallons of water per hour, especially during heavy storms, so it’s important to monitor the battery level after such events. For electrically powered pumps, a severe storm could cause a power outage, leaving the pump unable to operate without a backup power source, leading to a flooded basement.

Misaligned Drainage System

Leaks leading to your sump pump might indicate a problem with the drainage system rather than the pump itself. Misaligned pipes can cause continuous leaks and water damage. If you notice leaks, it’s a good idea to have an expert inspect both the drainage system and sump pump to pinpoint the issue and make the necessary repairs.

Poorly Designed Sump Pump

A cheap sump pump may save you money initially, but a poorly designed system can lead to costly damage in the long run. Problems such as water damage, mold, pest infestations, and foundation strain can result from an inadequate pump. It’s crucial to research before purchasing a sump pump. The lowest-priced option isn’t always the best, but you can still find high-quality, affordable pumps if you focus on features that suit your needs.

The sump pump system we use is one of the best available. It includes a premium liner to capture water efficiently and a sophisticated alarm system that alerts you when the pump is working or when the battery is low. An optional battery backup is also useful for busy homeowners who can’t constantly monitor the pump’s maintenance.

View All Basement Water Intrusion Causes

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Common Causes of Basement Water Problems

Clay Bowl Effect

The clay bowl effect is a common cause of flooded basements and crawl spaces. In this section, we explain what causes this effect and how you can prevent it from damaging your home.

Interior Leaks

Basement waterproofing is a complex process with multiple factors to consider. Here’s what you need to know about how interior leaks can lead to basement water intrusion issues.

Poor Foundation Drainage

Concerned about poor foundation drainage? Identifying the cause is key to finding the right solution, and our experts are here to assist you.

Hydrostatic Pressure

Basement waterproofing solutions must address hydrostatic pressure, a force that can damage your basement walls if not properly managed.

Sump Pump Failures

Sump pumps play a key role in protecting your basement from flooding. But what can cause these devices to fail? Here’s a closer look at the common reasons for sump pump failures.

How to Fix Sump Pumps

If your sump pump fails to prevent flooding, you might be tempted to replace it entirely. However, buying a new sump pump can be expensive, especially if the original one isn’t actually broken.

Can You Fix a Sump Pump Yourself?

Fixing a sump pump on your own can seem daunting, but some issues may be simple to resolve.

Replace The Battery Or Install A Backup Power Source

Your sump pump might not be broken at all—it could just have a dead battery. In this case, replacing the battery should get it working again. Installing a backup battery pack is another option, ensuring the pump stays powered during a heavy storm even if the primary battery dies.

Leave It To The Experts

For more complex issues, it’s best to leave sump pump repairs to professionals. Sump pumps have many components, and tampering with them can cause more harm than good. Attempting to fix the pump yourself may result in further internal damage or slow performance. Additionally, most homeowners don’t have the necessary tools for sump pump repair.

Professionals, on the other hand, have the tools and expertise to fix your sump pump properly. They understand that each basement has unique issues and can tailor their solutions accordingly. If a new sump pump is needed, they can help you choose one that fits your budget and install it efficiently. By trusting an expert, you’ll avoid the hassle of navigating your piping system and can have the entire process completed within days.

Sump Pump Failure FAQs

Using a sump pump along with an appropriate drainage system can effectively remove any water that seeps into your basement. The function of a sump pump is straightforward, and typically, you don’t need to manually operate it to ensure it starts. Here’s what you need to know about how a sump pump works.

Detect Water Intake

First, the sump pump automatically detects rising water levels in your basement or crawl space. While different models may have varying detection methods, most use a floating switch that activates the pump when the water reaches a certain level. This automated system ensures that the pump only starts when necessary, preventing it from running dry and protecting both your basement and the pump’s efficiency. As a result, your space stays dry while minimizing energy use.

Pump out Water

Once the water is detected, the pump gets to work. Although the exact mechanics may differ depending on the model, the primary goal is the same—removing water from your basement or crawl space. Most sump pumps are powered by an electric motor, but some may use alternative motor types. Regardless of the motor style, the effectiveness of your pump also depends on the discharge line, which carries water away from your property. If this line becomes blocked, the pump’s performance will be compromised, leading to water backup issues.

Direct Water to the Proper Location

After water is pumped out, it needs to be safely directed away from your home. Simply discharging it right outside your basement or crawl space can increase hydrostatic pressure, leading to more water intrusion problems. A properly installed discharge line typically routes the water to a storm drain or a safe area in your yard, where proper landscaping directs it away from your foundation.

Older sump pumps may have discharge lines that empty near the home, but this can be damaging in the long run. If your system has this outdated setup, we can upgrade your sump pump or install perimeter drains to ensure the water is directed safely away from your home, preventing the formation of a “clay bowl” effect and protecting your property.

Many homeowners often wonder if they can tackle repairs around their property themselves. While DIY projects are great for many tasks, fixing a sump pump shouldn’t be one of them. Attempting to repair a sump pump on your own can lead to various issues.

The Problems with DIY Repairs

Sump pumps consist of several intricate components that most homeowners lack the tools and expertise to fix. This is the main challenge with DIY repairs—you may not be equipped to handle common sump pump issues, and in trying to fix it, you could accidentally damage the pump or even injure yourself.

What You Can Do for Your Sump Pump

Trust the Experts for Sump Pump Repairs

Professionals have the specialized tools and knowledge to quickly diagnose and fix sump pump problems without risking further damage. The experts at Wet Basement Services can provide a lasting repair, keeping your pump in top condition.

Additionally, a professional will be able to advise you when your sump pump is nearing the end of its lifespan. Even with the best maintenance, all appliances have a limit, and your service professional can help you prepare for a replacement when the time comes.

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Call an Expert in Case of Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump failure can be incredibly frustrating, especially since you rely on it to prevent flooding, not cause it. So, what should you do if your sump pump stops working? It’s best to leave the repair to the professionals. Sump pumps are complex systems, and a single misstep or incorrect part placement can damage the entire unit.

Sump pump experts have the skills and knowledge to properly repair your system and ensure it continues to protect your basement for years. Contact Wet Basement Services for a no-obligation inspection and quote. Our specialists will provide you with all the information you need to safeguard your home.