Signs your sump pump needs a look
- The pit fills and the pump stays quiet
- The motor runs while the pit is nearly empty
- Short on-off cycles every few seconds
- Grinding, rattling or a loud hum
- A thud in the pipe each time the pump stops
- Water on the floor near the pit after rain
Parts that can fail
- Power
- A tripped breaker, a tripped outlet or a damaged cord can leave a working pump with no power.
- Float switch
- The float can stick, wear out or catch on the pit wall, the pipe or the pump's own cord.
- Pump
- Debris can jam the impeller, and motors can wear out.
- Check valve
- If it fails, pumped water can fall back into the pit and make the pump run again for the same water.
- Discharge line
- Leaves, soil, snow or ice can block the outlet, and joints can come apart.
Safe checks before you call
- Do not reach into the pit or stand in water near the pump while it is plugged in.
- Check that the pump is plugged in, and look at the breaker panel for a tripped breaker.
- Look into the pit. Can the float move up and down without catching on anything?
- Go outside while the pump runs and see whether water is leaving the pipe.
Repair or replace?
It depends on what failed and the condition of the pump. A float switch or a check valve can be replaced on its own. A failed motor can mean a new pump. Ask the plumber to explain what they found and why they recommend one or the other.
Questions to ask the plumber
- Which part failed, and how did you find out?
- Is a repair worth it on a pump this age, or would you replace it?
- What will the work cost, in writing, before you start?
- Will you test it afterwards by filling the pit so I can see it start and stop?
- What is your Pennsylvania home improvement contractor registration number?
Questions
Why does my sump pump keep running?
Possible causes include a float stuck in the on position, a failed check valve, a blocked discharge line or water entering the pit as fast as the pump can clear it.
Why does it turn on and off so often?
Rapid cycling can come from a failed check valve, a float switch with a very short range or a pit that is small for the amount of water coming in. A plumber can check which applies.
Can I keep using the pump until someone looks at it?
If it is still removing water, it may be doing its job. If it runs with the pit empty, gets very hot or smells of burning, unplug it if you can do so without standing in water, and call.