What to Do If My Sump Pump Fails

Common Signs Your Sump Pump Is Failing (And What to Do Next)

What to do if my sump pump fails is a question no homeowner wants to face, because a broken unit often leads to a flooded home. That’s why sump pumps are such a necessary component for homes in the Midlands of South Carolina and Augusta, Georgia.

Sump pumps are the first line of defense between a dry home and a basement that looks like a swimming pool. So, when heavy rains start to fall, you’ll want to have the peace of mind that your sump pump is working correctly.

Unfortunately, sump pumps can’t last forever, and yours will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. Our plumbing experts at Meetze Plumbing are here to cover the common signs that indicate you need to repair or replace your sump pump.

Keep an eye out for any of the signs mentioned in this blog post so that you can act quickly to replace your sump pump and avoid any flooding.

Signs That Your Sump Pump Needs Service

Old Age

One of the most straightforward indicators that it’s time to replace your sump pump is its age. Sump pumps typically last around 10 years, but this can vary based on the brand and the amount of maintenance it receives.

If your sump pump was installed over a decade ago, it’s time to plan for a replacement. Even if it appears to be working fine, its efficiency and reliability decrease with age, so you don’t want to be left in an emergency situation wondering what to do if my sump pump fails and suddenly stops working.

Frequent Running

A sump pump in good condition shouldn’t run constantly. If you notice that your sump pump is frequently activating, especially when there’s no apparent water source, it’s a sign that it might be struggling to keep up with the water inflow.

This could be due to a weakening motor or pump mechanism, so call a trusted plumber to schedule repairs.

Strange Noises

Unusual sounds coming from your sump pump are a clear sign that something is amiss. Grinding, rattling, or clanging noises can indicate a problem with the motor or impeller, which can lead to a breakdown if left unattended.

The sooner you catch this issue, the better as it may be able to be repaired. If left unaddressed for a while, your sump pump might be damaged to the point of needing replacement.

Visible Rust or Corrosion

Rust and corrosion are never a good sign, and this is especially true for sump pumps. If you see rust on the pump’s housing or the float switch, it can weaken the structural integrity of the pump, leading to leaks and eventual failure.

Corrosion can also affect the electrical components, posing a safety hazard.

Inadequate Water Removal

A sump pump’s primary job is to remove excess water from your basement or crawl space. If you notice water lingering in these areas after the pump has run its cycle, it’s a clear sign that the pump is not doing its job effectively. If this is the case for you, schedule a replacement as soon as possible.

Is Your Sump Pump Failing? Call Meetze Plumbing for Top-Rated Services

Meetze Plumbing has proudly been the go-to plumbing company in the Columbia, SC, and Augusta, GA, areas since 1981. With our decades of experience and team of highly trained plumbers, we can tackle any sump pump problem you are dealing with — and help you decide what to do if your sump pump fails unexpectedly.

We also offer same-day services for your convenience, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your home is protected against heavy rainfall.

Call Meetze Plumbing today at (803) 732-3747 to schedule a sump pump service.