A sump pump is used in the basement of your home to prevent flooding. Sump pumps work by pumping excess water from your basement that can accumulate from groundwater leaks or even rain. A properly functioning sump pump plays a vital role in keeping your home dry and your foundation strong. If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, it may be time to have your sump pump replaced.
Age
The first thing to note is the age of your sump pump. Most sump pumps tend to last anywhere between 7 to 10 years when properly maintained. Overtime, parts of the sump pump unit will wear out or stop working as efficiently as they used to, leading to frequent problems. If you know that your sump pump is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be the right time to consider a replacement.
Noise
Any excess noise, rattling, grinding, or vibrating coming from your sump pump may be an indication that some of the parts are damaged or worn out. Sutton Specialty Contractors can inspect your sump pump and help you figure out if a replacement is the best option. Though sump pumps aren’t silent, they certainly should not be noisy, so give us a call as soon as you notice any abnormal sounds.
Rust
If you can physically see rust on your sump pump, that is a sign of deterioration and corrosion. Signs of rust may mean your sump pump needs maintenance, but usually implies that the metal parts of your unit are weakening and will need to be replaced. Sometimes, the dark colored stuff around your sump pump is not rust, but actually bacteria that is typically called “Iron Bacteria”. This type of bacteria can cause issues with your plumbing by clogging and interrupting water flow.
Constant Running
If your sump pump is running all the time, there may be a bigger problem with the equipment or the float arm. Either of these issues stem from an unreliable power source or a shift in the pump. It may also indicate that your pump cannot accommodate for the amount of water in your basement, and you will be better off upgrading or replacing your sump pump.
Extending the Life of Your Sump Pump
To ensure the longevity of your sump pump and get as much use out of it as you can, there are a few simple maintenance tips you can do, including:
- Schedule regular maintenance services
- Test your pump often
- Use a backup battery
- Have a backup sump pump installed
- Clean your pump on a regular basis
Sutton Specialty Contractors offers services including water management, as well as structural repairs and moisture control. Our sump pumps are installed with GFCI surge protected outlets by licensed and professional electricians. If you are having issues with your sump pump, or have questions about replacing your sump pump, contact us today for a free inspection and quote, 252-320-2577.