WHEN IT’S TIME FOR A NEW SUMP PUMP
Your pipes, drains and water fixtures aren’t the only essential components in a home’s plumbing system.
If you’re like many homeowners, you also need an effective sump pump – a mechanical device designed to remove excess water from basements or crawlspaces that can accumulate after storms.
Sump pumps are crucial for preventing water damage and helping to keep these lower levels and their floors and walls dry, safeguard foundations, and protect possessions from water-caused damage, particularly in areas susceptible to flooding or residences in locations with a high water table. They can also prevent the growth of mildew and mold, which can present significant health risks to you and your family.
“Sump pumps work by collecting excess water in a sump pit – a specially constructed hole usually carved below the main surface of your basement or crawlspace. When the water level in the pit rises to a certain point, the float switch within the sump pump activates, and the device pumps the water out of the pit away from your home, usually via pipes, to a place where it is no longer problematic – like a municipal storm drain or a dry well,” explains Josh Mitchell, a plumbing expert.
If you have a home with a crawlspace or basement but no sump pump already installed, you are incurring serious risks of future water damage. Or, if your current sump pump is old, failing, or not up to the challenge, you may regret not replacing it soon.
“Signs of a malfunctioning sump pump include loud noises, constant running, cracks or damage, slow drainage, and failure to drain,” says Al Fagundes, a master plumber in Tyngsborough, Massachusetts. “Loud noises can indicate internal damage or worn parts. Continuous running typically indicates a problem with the switch. Damage or cracks can allow groundwater to seep in, causing the pump to run when it shouldn’t. And slow drainage may be triggered by clogs from mold, mildew, or outside debris.”
As a proactive measure, “homeowners should consider replacing their sump pump after seven to 10 years, even if it appears to be functioning correctly,” recommends Stellar Jackson, an electrical engineer at Portable Power Guides in Phoenix. “Also, after a significant flood or storm that necessitates the heavy use of the pump, it’s wise to have it inspected by a professional. Depending on the level of wear and tear, replacement might be recommended to ensure proper operation in the future.”