Sump pumps are an essential part of any home in a flood zone or have a history of basement flooding. They work to keep water out of your home by pumping it out and away from the foundation. If it fails, you could look at thousands of dollars in repairs. Therefore, you want to do everything you can to keep it running smoothly. However, sump pumps are not infallible and can fail from time to time. Here are reasons your sump pump might start to operate intermittently, prompting frequent sump pump repair services.
Power Outage
Number one on the list is a power outage. When the power goes out, the sump pump will not be able to operate and will not be able to remove water from the basement. This can cause the basement to flood if there is heavy rainfall. The best way to prevent this is to have a backup power source for the sump pump. A generator can provide power to the sump pump so it can continue operating even when the power is out. This will help to keep the basement dry and free from flooding.
Heavy Rains
Another common cause of intermittent sump pump operation is heavy rains. If the rain is coming down too hard, the pump might not be able to keep up and will start to shut off. This mostly occurs if your pump is not the right size for your home. In this case, you risk putting your home at risk of flooding and incurring hefty repair bills. An undersized pump is also likely to strain, increasing the chances of its failure. You will hire sump pump repair services in Bloomington, IL, more often if you don’t invest in the right size pump for your home.
Improper Installation
This is one of the most common causes of sump pump failure. If your sump pump is not installed properly, it will not operate as intended and will start to fail intermittently. For a sump pump to work properly, it must be installed in a level position, with the float assembly mounted horizontally. If the float assembly is mounted vertically, it can become stuck in the “up” position, causing the pump to run continuously and leading to early failure.
Failing to seal the pump in its housing properly can allow water to leak into the electrical components, causing short circuits and other problems. Improper wiring is another common installation mistake that can cause intermittent sump pump failure. If the wires are not correctly sized or insulated, they can overheat, leading to a fire hazard. You should have a professional sump pump installation company install your pump to ensure it works properly when you need it. This will save you from recurring sump pump repair services.
Aging Sump Pump
As your sump pump ages, it will become less efficient and fail more often. As a sump pump ages, the mechanical parts wear down, and the pump may become less efficient. In some cases, an aging sump pump may even stop working altogether. If your sump pump is beginning to show signs of wear, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified technician in Bloomington, IL. With proper sump pump repair and maintenance services, an aging pump can often be kept in good working condition for many years.
Debris In the Pit
As the pit fills with water, any debris that has fallen in will float to the top and block the outlet. This can cause the pump to cycle on and off more frequently as it struggles to keep up with the water inflow. In some cases, the blockage may be severe enough to cause the pump to run continuously. If you suspect that debris is causing your sump pump to operate intermittently, contact a sump pump repair professional to have the pit cleaned out. You should avoid the temptation to clean out the pit since doing so could damage the pump.
Dirty Sump Pump
Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the pump, preventing it from running smoothly. In addition, a dirty pump is more likely to overheat, which can cause the pump to shut down prematurely. If your sump pump is having trouble staying on, be sure to check the pump for dirt and debris. Ensuring that your sump pump is clean will help prolong its life and prevent costly sump pump repair services.
Clogged Sump Pump Discharge Line
A clogged pump discharge line is one of the most common reasons for intermittent sump pump operation. The discharge line is the pipe that carries water away from the sump pit and is typically located outside the home. Over time, this pipe can become clogged with debris, causing the sump pump to cycle on and off more frequently. If left unchecked, a clogged discharge line can eventually lead to the sump pump losing its prime and failing to operate altogether. A clogged discharge line can also cause the pump to run dry, damaging the pump and voiding the warranty. If you suspect that your sump pump discharge line is clogged, you should contact a sump pump repair professional to clear the line. Doing so will help prolong your sump pump’s life and ensure that it continues to operate correctly.
Don’t Ignore Signs of Trouble
Intermittent sump pump operation can often signify a more serious problem. If your sump pump has trouble staying on, contact a qualified technician for sump pump repair services. Ignoring the signs of trouble can often lead to expensive repairs.
We Are the Sump Pump Technicians to Call
If you’re having trouble with your sump pump in Bloomington, IL, contact the experts at Covenant Plumbing. We offer a wide range of services, including sump pump repair, installation, and maintenance. Our team of qualified technicians has the experience and knowledge to get your sump pump back up and running in no time. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
