Sump pumps are installed at the lowest point of your home, usually the basement. When groundwater starts to accumulate and the sump pump is activated, it will take that groundwater and pump it out and away from home. Some parts of Alexandria are notorious for flooding, which is why it’s imperative to ensure your sump pump is working properly.
According to the US Department of Housing and Development, the life expectancy for sump pumps is around 10 years, with proper maintenance. We recommend keeping a log of your maintenance and any issues you notice to keep on hand. So what are some signs that it’s time for a replacement?
Running Consistently
Your sump pump should not be running on a dry sunny day in June. If your pump is always running, it’s not handling the amount of water coming in.
Some other factors that contribute to constant running:
- Your sump pump is the wrong size for your house
- Your sump pump shifted inside the basin
- Broken check valve
Running for a Long Time
If your pump doesn’t have enough horsepower, it may take longer to pump water out. Determining what size pump you need depends on the volume of water and the direction of travel. A discharge line that is leading up and out will require more power to fight gravity compared to a discharge line that doesn’t have as far of a distance to travel.
Vibrations and Strange Noises
Sump pumps make humming noises when working properly, but they shouldn’t do is rattle or grind. This is a sign that parts are failing, and you should get an inspection.
Debris stuck inside a sump pump can lead to vibration. Debris can lead to bent or damaged impellers. A bent or damaged impeller can lead to wobbling and stress on the system.
Contact Us
If you think your sump pump is in need of replacement, contact our team to provide a free consultation and inspection.
Our professionals will look for the following:
- Is the float in working order?
- Is the check valve working properly?
- Do you have a GFCI outlet?
- Do you have a source of backup power?
- The current condition of the sump pit.
- The discharge location and its proximity to the home.
Don’t wait, schedule your free consult.
