Do You Need To Replace Your Sump Pump? What You Should Know
Sump pumps are a popular investment for dealing with water accumulation in basements, but far too many homeowners install a sump pump and then don't give it another thought. The truth is that you should inspect and test your sump pump regularly for any signs of wear, damage, or failure. Routine inspections and testing help to ensure that your sump pump will work when you need it to. Here are a few signs to watch for that indicate your sump pump is in need of replacement.
Frequent Clogs
One key indication that your sump pump is in need of replacement is frequent clogging. If you notice that your sump pump seems to be clogging far more often than it should be, that's a sign that something isn't right. In most cases, it means that the pump is either overpowered for the size of the basin and is drawing debris into the pump, or it means that you need a newer sump pump with better protection against clogs and debris contamination. In either case, repeated clogging is a key indicator that it's time to start looking for a new sump pump.
Odd Noises
Another thing you might notice from a sump pump that's in need of replacement is strange noises. Sometimes, the motor will emit a loud, sharp squeal. This is usually the result of a spun bearing or similar problem. If you're hearing banging, that's often caused by an impeller shaft that's warped or otherwise damaged. These shafts are complicated and costly to replace, so it's in your best interest to just replace the sump pump instead.
Slow Response
Many people assume that, if their sump pump turns on and pumps water, it's fine. They don't take the time to actually watch how that pump is operating. If you monitor your pump's operation, you can usually tell if it's pumping water at the same rate that it always has, or if the system has slowed down.
If your sump pump is removing water more slowly than it usually does, that's an indication of wear on the infrastructure. An aging, worn pump needs to be replaced for more reliable, consistent operation. Remember that water damage risks increase the longer water is left in your basement, so slow removal is problematic.
No Response
If your sump pump doesn't engage during one test, that's not usually a major cause for concern. However, if you notice that your sump pump isn't engaging during repeated tests, or it doesn't come on when there's water accumulating in the basin, you'll want to start looking for a new pump. An unreliable or unresponsive sump pump isn't going to do the job that you need it to do, so you'll want to find a newer model that you can count on.
If you're experiencing any of these problems with your sump pump, reach out to a replacement contractor today.
For more information on sump pump replacement, contact a professional near you.
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