Is Your Sump Pump Acting Up? Here’s How to Tell Before Things Get Messy!
Nobody likes a flooded basement, right? Your trusty sump pump is supposed to be the hero that keeps your home dry, but what happens when it’s not doing its job? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into some signs that your sump pump might be on the fritz and some super simple checks you can do to make sure it’s running like a champ.
Signs Your Sump Pump Might Be Throwing a Tantrum
- Weird Noises
Is your sump pump making strange noises like it’s trying out for a garage band? Grinding, rattling, or gurgling sounds could mean it’s having a rough time. - Won’t Stop Running
If your pump is acting like it’s training for a marathon—running nonstop or constantly turning on and off—it might have a float switch issue or an electrical hiccup. - Shaking Like a Wet Dog
Excessive vibration when the pump is running could mean the impeller is damaged or clogged. - Rust is Never a Good Look
If your sump pump is looking a little rusty or corroded, it might be time to consider a replacement. Rust doesn’t just look bad—it can mess with how well the pump works. - Water, Water Everywhere
If you’re seeing water pooling around the pump or in your basement, even though the pump’s running, that’s a big red flag. It’s time to take action! - What’s That Smell?
A gross smell coming from the sump pit is never a good sign. Stagnant water or mold could be the culprits, and it probably means your pump isn’t draining properly.
So, you’ve noticed some of these signs, and now you’re wondering what to do next? Don’t worry—it’s time to roll up your sleeves and do a few simple checks to see if your sump pump just needs a little TLC or if it’s time to call in the pros. Let’s get to it!
If the crock is sealed, do not break the seal, call a professional.
Quick and Easy Checks
- Power Check
Make sure your pump is actually plugged in and getting power. It sounds simple, but it’s always good to double-check! - Float Switch Test
Give the float switch a little lift to see if the pump kicks on. If nothing happens, the switch might be stuck or kaput. - Discharge Pipe Drama
Take a peek at the discharge pipe. Is it clogged, blocked, or frozen? If so, water might not be going where it should. - Pit Stop
Clean out the sump pit! Remove any debris, dirt, or gravel that could clog things up and stop your pump from working right. - Check that Check Valve
Make sure the check valve on the discharge line is doing its job so water doesn’t flow back into the pit. - Pump It Up
Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and see if the pump kicks into gear. If it struggles, it’s probably time for some TLC—or maybe even a replacement.
To keep your sump pump running smoothly, it’s a good idea to give it some regular attention. Make it a habit to do quick inspections every few months to catch any issues before they turn into big problems. And for that extra peace of mind, have a professional check it out once a year, especially if your sump pump is your main defense against basement flooding. This way, you can rest easy knowing your pump is always ready to go when you need it most.
Your Go-To Sump Pump Gurus
Got sump pump worries? We’ve got you covered. Learn more about sump pumps here or give us a call or text at 608-222-8490, and let our team of experts take care of it for you. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your service today!
