How to Tell if Your Sump Pump Is Working

If you have a sump pump in your home, it’s important to know how to tell if it’s working properly. A sump pump is a crucial part of your home’s drainage system, and if it isn’t working correctly, you could end up with water damage or flooding.

In this guide, we will discuss the signs that your sump pump is not working properly, as well as what you can do about it.

Signs that Your Sump Pump is Not Working

Before we get into the signs that your sump pump is not working, it’s important to know how a sump pump works.

Sump pumps are typically located in the basement of a home, and are used to remove water that has accumulated in the sump pit. The water is then pumped out of the home, and away from the foundation.

Now that you know how a sump pump works, here are the signs that it’s not working properly:

The sump pump doesn't turn on

This is the most obvious sign that something is wrong with your sump pump. If the pump isn’t turning on, it can’t do its job. There are a few things that could cause this, such as a tripped circuit breaker or a faulty switch.

The sump pump runs constantly

If your sump pump is constantly running, it could be overworked and in need of repair. It could also be that the float switch is stuck in the “on” position.

The sump pump is making strange noises

If your sump pump is making strange noises, it’s a sign that something is wrong. The most common cause of this is a build-up of sediment in the pump. It could, however, also be that the impeller needs cleaning.

What to Do if Your Sump Pump Isn't Working

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s important to take action right away. The first thing you should do is check the circuit breaker and switch.

If they are both working properly, the next step is to clean the sump pit. If you have a lot of sediment build-up, it can cause the pump to overheat and burn out.

If your sump pump still isn’t working even after checking the circuit breaker, switch, and sump pit, it’s time to call a professional. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem, and get your sump pump working again in no time.

How to Test a Sump Pump to Make Sure it Works?

Now you know how to tell if your sump pump isn’t working, the next thing you need to learn is how you can test it to make sure it works before you need it. Here are a few things you can do:

Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit - The first thing you can do is pour a bucket of water into the sump pit. This will simulate heavy rain, and give you an idea of how well the sump pump pit works. If the pump kicks on and starts draining the water, it's working properly. To do this test, you'll need to turn off the power to the pump first.
Check the float switch - The next thing you can do is check the float switch. This is what tells the pump when to turn on and off. To test it, simply lift up the float switch, and see if the pump turns on. If it doesn't, there may be a problem with the switch.
Test the outlet - The last thing you can do is test the outlet. Plug a lamp or other small appliance into the outlet, and turn it on. Then, turn on the pump. If the pump kicks on and starts draining water, it's working properly. If not, there may be a problem with the outlet.
Check the basin - Once you've tested the pump, it's a good idea to check the basin. Make sure there are no cracks or leaks. If you find any, they will need to be repaired before using the pump.

It’s important to test your sump pump regularly to make sure it’s in working order. By following the above steps, you can be sure that your pump will be ready to do its job when you need it to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do sump pumps typically need repair?

Sump pumps don’t typically need repair, but it’s important to keep an eye on them and to clean the sump pit regularly. If you notice any signs that your sump pump isn’t working properly, it’s important to call a qualified technician right away.

Do I need a new sump pump?

If your sump pump isn’t working properly even after attempting to troubleshoot it, it’s important to call a qualified technician to diagnose the problem. In most cases, a simple repair will do the trick. However, if the damage is extensive, you may need a new sump pump.

Do pump cord and float cord length matter?

The pump cord and float cord length don’t typically matter, but it’s important to make sure they are the right type of cord for your specific sump pump.

How does a flooded basement happen?

A flooded basement can happen for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is heavy rain or melting snow, which causes the excess water table to rise. This can cause the groundwater to seep into your basement through cracks in the foundation.

If your sump pump is working properly, you shouldn’t have to worry about water damage in your home. By following the steps above, you can easily check to see if your sump pump is functioning correctly.

If you have any concerns, be sure to contact a professional for help. With a little bit of care and attention, your sump pump should provide years of reliable service.