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A sump pump is a reliable household essential that moves water from your basement to the outside of your home. It functions as a basement waterproofing system that prevents water damage by eliminating stagnant water and keeping it dry.
The sump pump is a device homeowners can always turn to when their basement gets flooded. However, the sump pump cannot protect their basements forever. Just like any other device, it can succumb to wear and tear or exceed its serviceable life and stop functioning.
With sump pump failure being one of the leading causes of water damage in Kansas City homes, it’s best to subject your pump to regular maintenance to ensure it functions properly. Additionally, learn to spot the warning signs of impending sump pump failure to know it’s the right time to replace your pump. Watch out for the following signs.
1. It’s Over 10 Years Old
When a sump pump exceeds its service age, it tends to stop working reliably and instead shows signs of wear and tear. However, replacing your sump pump before it reaches its breaking point is always recommended to ensure you still have a reliable machine to turn to during emergencies.
A good rule of thumb is when your sump pump reaches at least seven years without needing replacement, you’ll know it will be replaced sooner or later. You can check your owner’s manual for the specifics of its manufacturing date, but do not be surprised if this information is unavailable, as most manufacturers do not and cannot guarantee a specific lifespan for their devices.
Although most sump pumps have a life expectancy between seven to 10 years, their overall longevity will depend on their frequency of use. For example, if you live in an area with frequent rainfall, such as in Kansas City, your basement may be flooded often and will rely on your sump pump more often than in Phoenix.
Interestingly, less frequent usage of your sump pump can also reduce its lifespan. This is why it’s important to subject your sump pump to regular inspections at least once a year to ensure it’s working properly at all times.
2. Visible Rust
Corrosion in your sump pump can result from frequent exposure to moisture and oxygen or bacteria buildup. When this occurs, battery terminals could also corrode, causing your sump pump to malfunction during operation.
Although minor instances of rust on your sump pump will not hinder its function completely, excessive corrosion may cause it to fail entirely and deter water flow inside your drainage system. Unfortunately, corrosion is irreversible, so maintenance cannot do anything to repair the damage to your system. The best solution to this problem is to replace the sump pump altogether.
3. It Doesn’t Stop Running
When your sump pump is constantly running, it could indicate one of the following issues:
- A problem with the switch hindering it from turning off.
- Failure in the float arm mechanism indicating the pump is full when it’s clearly empty.
- Problematic power source.
- Unresponsive float due to pump shifts within the basin.
In most cases, these problems can be reversed by having your pump subjected to repairs. However, this should also be when you start planning for a replacement, as these issues could happen frequently.
4. Strange Noises
Sump pumps aren’t known for the loud noises they emit during operation. At most, the loudest noise you can hear from it should be a low continuous hum. If you start hearing strange loud noises from your sump pump, it could indicate that there’s something seriously wrong with your device.
If you hear rattling, grinding, or squealing noises from your sump pump, it could mean that some of its components are failing. These serious issues must be dealt with immediately to avoid further damage, which could lead to flooding in your basement.
Excessive vibrations are another sound to consider, as it indicates that your pump has sucked in foreign debris. When this debris enters the pump, it can cause the impellers to bend, which causes vibrations inside the pump. Although technically, the bent impellers can be fixed by rebending them, it is not advisable as you may be damaging them further. Instead, you may opt to replace your sump pump altogether to prevent any problems.
5. The Pump Has Ceased Functioning Completely
The most apparent sign to watch out for is when your sump pump has broken down completely. At this point, you’re left with two choices: call for professional help to repair or replace it when it’s not functioning.
There are many reasons why your sump pump could stop functioning altogether. The most common issue could be because of frequent power outages, which damage your pump’s electrical system.
Call the Experts at Water Removal in Kansas City
Your sump pump is a lifesaver in avoiding water damage when your basement has completely flooded. This is why it’s important to err on the side of caution rather than wait for sump pump failure. If you spot any of the signs above, it’s time to consider getting a replacement.
Meanwhile, if you’re faced with the prospect of water damage, you can call on Restoration 1 to help with water removal in Kansas City. Whether you’re faced with a flooded basement or an overflowing bathtub, we’ll help you get rid of standing water to prevent water damage and preserve your property’s pristine condition. Call Restoration 1 of Kansas today!
