How to Tell if Your Sump Pump Needs of Repairs

As the winter approaches us, we can surely count  on massive rain storms, snow, ice, and sleet. These extreme weather conditions place excessive strains on your plumbing.  Often overlooked is an extremely important component of your home’s plumbing system located in your basement, and that is your sump pump. 

Your sump pump duty is to relocate excess water away and out of your basement to prevent flooding and other structural water damage. While we go about our daily lives, it's easy to forget just how important a role our sump pumps play. A neglected sump pump in the middle of winter can literally turn your basement into an ice rink if not careful.

Detecting a problem early with your sump pump can save you immeasurable headaches. Detecting issues sometimes can be a little tricky.  This post will give you some of the warning signs to look out for before the storm hits. One good way to prevent an unexpected surprise with your sump pump is to call Wendrick’s Plumbing for a routine inspection.

A faulty switch seems to be a common culprit for a sump pump problem. A sump pump that runs continually can burn out. These can often be solved by a simple sump pump repair. If your sump pump is running inadequately, it might be time to replace it. Before replacing your sump pump, it is always a good idea to test your sump pump.

Consistent vibrating.is often a sign of a dated impeller. The impeller draws water into the sump pump. A bent impeller unfortunately can't be repaired. If your sump pump impeller is bent, it will need to be changed. Conversely, the lack of use of a sump pump can actually shorten the service life of a sump pump. Therefore it’s a good idea to check your sump pump in between heavy rains to prevent potential problems.

Because your sump pump constantly works with water, it is often subject to rust over time. If you discover rust on your sump pump, it could be brought on by a corroded battery or germs, which sometimes if left neglected can eventually block your plumbing. If you see rust, your sump pump needs repair work right away. Old age. Unlike other major home appliances like your heater or hot water heater, your sump pump isn't built to last long. 

No matter how well maintained your sump pump is, it will break down over time. Sump pumps over the age of 7 years can often mean it is time to replace them. Motor problems. If the sump pump stops working entirely, it might be an issue with the motor. A motor that doesn't work can be an issue with damaged wiring, the gadget in some way got itself unplugged, or it tripped the breaker.

A failed motor could likewise suggest a harmed filter or an extension pipe that can't correctly drain the water. No water in the sump pump pit. If your sump pump seems working usually, but you see there is no water in the pit, you're in need of a sump pump repair. 

A tripped circuit can be another common issue with sump pumps. Your sump pump runs on electrical energy, but it needs to never trip your circuit breaker unless there was an issue. A sump pump that constantly trips the circuit breaker could be brought on by a damaged switch, damaged electrical wiring, or an insufficient power source. 

Do Not Forget to Check Your Sump Pump in the Winter. It's simple to overlook this important appliance in your basement when you're cozied up on the couch watching a good movie, however sump pump maintenance is crucial for a warm winter without any surprises.

If your sump pump needs repair, it is always best to contact Wendrick’s Plumbing in Waukegan, Illinois.  Wendrick’s Plumbing is a licensed plumbing company that has been providing the North Shore with quality plumbing services for several decades. Having a plumber from Wendrick’s check your sump pump can help play a major role in preventing any unwanted surprises such as flooding or freezes in your home or structural water damage. 


Click Here to learn about how to test your sump pump.

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