While you might hear your sump pump powering through during a severe storm, it’s a completely different story when yours won’t stop running. If your sump pump system is constantly flushing water, it’s a sign that you might have a big problem. You should definitely reach out for same-day plumbing service, but it’s also a good idea to understand why the pump keeps running and what you can do to prevent it. If you want to learn why your pump isn’t working, reach out to a professional, or read on to know some of the most common sump pump problems.
Malfunctioning Float Switch
Sump pump float switches sit on the water level and are one of the most important parts of the entire system. The float switch signals your pump to turn on and flush out the accumulating water. When the switch malfunctions, it’s usually when the float becomes stuck in the “on” position. This causes your pump to flush water out continuously, even when the water level returns to normal.
Discharge Pipe Blockage
Discharge pipes do exactly what you’d think — they are the tool responsible for carrying the discharged water back into the ground. Sometimes dirt and debris stop your water from flowing properly, leading to backups that continuously add up. You can unblock a discharge line with a drain snake or wire hanger, but you should call a professional to prevent any other major plumbing issues and problems.
Your Sump Pump Isn’t the Right Size
Believe it or not, your sump pump can be undersized for the amount of water it needs to process. If you live in an area with plenty of rain or if your sump pump has to cover a large area, you need to make sure yours is capable of handling the basement’s demands. An undersized pump leaves you at risk of a failure that can flood your basement and home faster than you might think, so get yours replaced by Edwards Plumbing & Heating. Our technicians will ensure your measurements are accurate so you won’t have to deal with a sump pump failure.
Issue With Your Check Valve
A sump pump check valve prevents water from flowing back into the pump as it’s being discharged. When the check valve malfunctions, water won’t fully function out of the sump pump pit, confusing you and your pump. Check if your system has a check valve. If yours does, it’s likely worn out from years of usage.
Faulty Impeller
Sump pumps are centrifugal and use spinning impellers that push water into the discharge pipes. The impellers create suction, similar to boat propellers, that generate enough force to process water. When the impeller either does not work or is faulty, the pump will run continuously, as there won’t be enough force for water to flow out of the pump.
Get Your Sump Pump Repaired by a Plumbing Professional
Your sump pump is meant to prevent water from getting in your home, not bringing more in. A faulty sump pump is a headache no homeowner wants to deal with. Fortunately, with our help, you don’t have to!
The sump pump service technicians at Edwards Plumbing & Heating ensure that your sump pump problems are repaired as quickly and efficiently as possible. Give us a call today to explore how to stop your sump pump from running out of control.