Sump pumps are crucial for many Kansas City homes, particularly those that have basements, so you need to know when it’s time to replace your sump pump before it breaks completely. If you’re not sure what to look for, you’ve come to the right place! Check these seven signs so you never run into issues with flooding.
Sump Pump Vibrations/Excessive Noise
Firstly, if your submersible pump makes very strange noises or vibrates excessively when it runs, it could be a sign that it needs to be replaced. Either of these symptoms could indicate that the sump pump is damaged or has worn down parts. Alternatively, if your pump has sucked up a lot of hard debris, this may cause excessive vibration and lead to damaged impellers. That means your sump pump either needs to be repaired or replaced.
You Don’t Use the Sump Pump Regularly
Alternatively, you should consider replacing your home’s sump pump if you don’t use it very frequently. If you don’t use a sump pump regularly enough, you’ll reduce its shelf life. To avoid this, try to test your sump pump in between major rainstorms – as a bonus, this will also let you detect any of the other signs of damage or low performance mentioned here.
The Sump Pump Always Runs
Overall, the most common cause of sump pump damage is constant running. This is oftentimes due to problems with pump switches. If your sump pump continually runs and never stops, it might be a sign that the entire system needs to be replaced or that the switch alone needs to be repaired. It can be tough to tell, either way, so contact sump pump specialists if you never hear it stop humming and pumping.
The Sump Pump Cycles Irregularly
A properly working sump pump should only cycle on and off once or twice, even in the middle of a heavy rainstorm. But if it cycles on and off all the time, especially in heavy rain, it’s likely because there’s a mechanical or switch issue. For example, the float switch could be incorrectly adjusted, which might cause the pump to turn on only if there’s a small amount of rain accumulated in its basin.
There’s Visible Rust
Naturally, if you look at your sump pump and its apparatus and see visible rust, that’s a big sign that it needs to be replaced. The discoloration associated with rust, however, could be due to bacteria rather than corroded battery terminals. Either way, it may cause issues with water flow to the drainage system and cause your sump pump to operate incorrectly during the next rainstorm.
It’s Over Seven Years Old
No matter what other symptoms or signs you detect, it’s a good idea to replace your sump pump if it is seven years old or more. Like all other mechanical devices, sump pumps don’t last forever; you should err on the side of caution and replace them if it’s above this age limit.
The Sump Pump Motor Gets Stuck
Last but not least, if your sump pump motor often gets stuck, it’ll become damaged very quickly and require a full replacement. Your pump motor could run down very early in its lifespan if it sucks up a lot of sediment or other soil debris. You can and should use a filter to keep that stuff out of your pump and extend its useful life span if possible.
No matter what, sump pumps sometimes need to be replaced. If you’re not sure whether your sump pump is broken beyond repair, contact KC Pier today – we’ll help you determine if it’s time to replace your sump pump and help you with the process from start to finish.