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In the United States, about 14.6 million homes are prone to flooding, with a majority of these residences located in low-lying regions across the country. To help prevent significant water damage to these homes, the Federal Clean Water Act in 1987 made sump pumps mandatory for homes and buildings, even if they were not in flood-prone areas.

Today, sump pumps play a vital role in protecting U.S. homes from flooding. However, just like any mechanical system, these helpful machines can fail for various reasons.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the different reasons why sump pumps fail and provide tips on how to prevent such failures to ensure the safety of your home during a flood.

What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a type of equipment that is commonly installed in the lowest part of a house’s basement or crawl space. It is designed to prevent flooding by efficiently removing any accumulated water.

Sump pumps activate once the water level reaches a certain point in the sump pit. Once activated, it pumps the water away from your home’s foundation and towards a designated drainage area. This process effectively redirects water from your home, ensuring your basement stays dry and free from water damage.

Types of Sump Pumps

There are different kinds of sump pumps available, each with their own unique features and applications:

• Submersible sump pumps are placed directly in the sump pit and are submerged in water, which makes them operate quietly. They are an excellent choice for finished basements due to their discreet installation.
• Pedestal sump pumps are positioned above the sump pit. They typically cost less than submersible sump pumps but tend to be louder. However, their location makes them more accessible for repairs and easier to maintain.

Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure

Many homeowners face the issue of sump pump failure, which often goes unnoticed until it becomes too late to fix. However, with proper preventative maintenance, most problems that lead to sump pump failure can be avoided or repaired promptly.

The following are some of the most common causes of sump pump failure:

• Improper Installation: Not properly installing your sump pump can cause misaligned components, inadequate positioning within the sump pit, or faulty connections, which can cause it to malfunction.
• Power Outages: If your sump pump relies solely on electricity, a power outage during heavy storms can render it useless. Installing a battery backup or a generator can address this vulnerability.
• Switch Problems: The float switch is responsible for activating the pump. When it gets stuck or fails, your sump pump may not activate at all.
• Lack of Maintenance: Sump pumps, like any mechanical system, require regular maintenance. Neglecting this aspect can lead to clogs, debris buildup, and eventual failure.
• Frozen or Clogged Discharge Lines: Cold temperatures can cause discharge lines to freeze, hindering the pump’s ability to expel water.
• Old Age: Like any appliance, sump pumps have a lifespan. If yours is nearing the end of its recommended lifespan (usually around 10 years), consider investing in a replacement before it fails.

How to Avoid Sump Pump Failure

To avoid sump pump failure, there are several measures you can take. Below are a few tips that can help you prevent your sump pump from failing:

• Perform Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your sump pump in good condition. This is why it’s important to schedule annual check-ups to clean the pump, test the float switch, and inspect all components for signs of wear.
• Install Battery Backup: Consider installing a battery backup to ensure your sump pump can operate during power outages and provide continuous protection for your peace of mind.
• Invest in a Quality Pump: Choose a high-quality, reliable model suited to your specific needs when purchasing a sump pump. Investing in quality often pays off in the long run.
• Ensure Proper Discharge: Regularly check the discharge line to prevent freezing or clogging. Make sure that the water is directed away from your home’s foundation to ensure it is functioning correctly.
• Consider a Secondary Pump: Installing a secondary pump as a backup is always a good idea as it provides an extra layer of defense, especially during heavy rainfall or extreme weather conditions.

Keep Your Home Protected With the Help of Seattle Water Damage Restoration Experts

Your sump pump is your last line of defense against water damage during floods. However, when your sump pump fails, it’s crucial to act quickly to mitigate the damage to your property. During these times, you can count on Restoration 1 for expert water damage restoration services. With years of extensive experience and access to professional tools, you can count on our team of experts to restore your property to its pre-loss condition.

Don’t let sump pump failure put your home at risk. Contact Restoration 1 today!