If your home has a sump pump installed in the basement, it’s important to know how to fix sump pump not working. A sump pump is a necessary piece of equipment during periods of heavy rain or flooding, and it’s important to ensure it’s in good working order before a storm hits. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to take if your sump pump isn’t working properly. Keep reading to learn more.
Summary: If your sump pump isn’t working, it could be due to a few things. The most common causes are loss of power, clogged pipes, or a faulty switch. You can fix the problem by first checking for any obstructions in the pipes. If none are found, then you’ll need to check if the power is still connected properly and if the switch needs replacing. With some basic troubleshooting and knowledge, you can quickly get your sump pump back up and running.
What Causes a Sump Pump to Stop Working?
There are a few different reasons why your sump pump might stop working. One possibility is that the power has gone out. If this is the case, you’ll need to wait for the power to come back on before your sump pump starts working again.
Another possibility is that the float switch, which turns the sump pump on and off, is stuck in the “off” position. This can happen if the float switch is dirty or jammed.
Additionally, the switch might be turned off manually if you’re trying to clear a clog in the sump pit. The other possibility is that the pump itself has failed. This could be due to a burnt-out motor, clogged impeller, or other issues. Lastly, the discharge pipe could be blocked, preventing water from being pumped out of the basement.
Why It’s Important to Fix a Sump Pump
A sump pump is an important piece of equipment because it helps to prevent flooding in your basement. If the pump isn’t working properly, water can build up in the sump pit and eventually overflow into your basement.
This can cause serious damage to your home, including mold growth and structural damage. Additionally, a flooded basement can create health hazards due to the presence of harmful bacteria and contaminants in the water. Another reason to fix a sump pump is that it can help to reduce your homeowner’s insurance rates.
If you have a history of flooding in your basement, your insurance company may require you to have a sump pump installed. Finally, a sump pump can help to protect your belongings from water damage. If you have valuable items stored in your basement, a working sump pump can help to keep them safe from flooding.
10 Simple Ways How to Fix Sump Pump Not Working
1. Check the Power Source
The first step is to check the power source. This is because the sump pump will not work without power. There are two possible power sources for the sump pump. One is a standard outlet, and the other is a battery backup. If you have a battery backup, check to see if the batteries are charged.
If not, charge them and then try to turn on the sump pump. If you have a standard outlet, make sure it’s plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t been tripped. Then, try plugging the sump pump into another outlet to see if that works.
2. Inspect the Float Switch
The float switch is what turns the sump pump on and off. It’s a small device floating in the sump pit water. When the water level rises, the float switch rises with it and turns the sump pump on. When the water level lowers, the float switch lowers and turns the sump pump off.
Unfortunately, the float switch can become stuck in the “on” or “off” position, preventing the sump pump from working properly. To fix this, try moving the float switch up or down to see if that unsticks it. If not, you may need to replace the float switch entirely.
3. Check the Discharge Pipe
The discharge pipe is the pipe that carries water away from the sump pit. If this pipe is blocked, water will build up in the sump pit and eventually overflow. To check the discharge pipe, remove the cap from the end of the pipe and look inside.
If you see any blockages, try to remove them with a plunger or plumber’s snake. If the pipe is completely blocked, you may need to replace it. Disconnect the old pipe and connect a new one in its place.
4. Inspect the Impeller
The impeller is the part of the sump pump that moves water through the discharge pipe. If this part is clogged, the sump pump will not be able to move water properly. To clean the impeller, you will need to remove it from the sump pump. This can usually be done by unscrewing a few screws.
Once the impeller is removed, use a toothbrush or other small brush to clean it. First, remove any debris that may be stuck to it. Then, run the brush under water to rinse it off. If the impeller is severely damaged, you will need to replace it.
5. Replace the Motor
If the motor is not working, the sump pump will not be able to move water. To test the motor, first, disconnect it from the power source. Then, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If there is no continuity, the motor needs to be replaced.
To do this, you will need to remove the old motor and install a new one. This is a fairly simple process, but it’s always best to consult a professional if you’re unsure.
6. Clean the Sump Pit
The sump pit is where water collects before being pumped out. Over time, this pit can become filled with sediment and other debris. This can prevent the sump pump from working properly. To clean the sump pit, first, remove any debris from the pit.
Then, use a garden hose to flush out the pit. Be sure to remove any sediment or debris that could clog the pump. If the pump still does not work properly, you may need to replace it.
7. Check the Check Valve
The check valve is a one-way valve that prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit. If this valve is not working properly, water will flow back into the pit and eventually overflow. To check the check valve, first, locate it on the discharge pipe. It is usually located near the top of the pipe.
Next, remove the check valve from the pipe and inspect it for any damage. If the valve is damaged, it will need to be replaced. If the valve is not damaged, reattach it to the pipe and make sure it is working properly.
8. Inspect the Tether Switch
The tether switch is a safety device that turns the sump pump off if the water level gets too high. This prevents the sump pump from overloading and causing damage. To check the tether switch, first, make sure that the power is off. Then, remove the sump pit cover and look for the tether float. The tethered float is a small float that is attached to the tether switch.
If the tether float is not in the correct position, it can cause the sump pump not to work properly. To fix this, adjust the tether float to be in the correct position. If the tether switch is not the problem, the next step is checking the pump itself.
9. Bypass the Pump
If the pump is not working, bypassing it is the best way to test it. To do this, first, disconnect the power supply to the pump. Then, remove the lid of the sump pit and locate the float switch.
Once you have found the float switch, disconnect it from the power supply. Now, take a garden hose and place one end into the sump pit. The other end of the hose should be placed into a nearby drain or storm sewer.
Please turn on the water and allow it to flow into the pit. The water level in the pit should rise until it activates the float switch. When the float switch is activated, it should turn on the pump. If the pump does not turn on, it is most likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
10. Call a Professional
If you have tried all of the above steps and the sump pump still is not working, it’s time to call a professional. A professional plumber will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
They will also be able to advise you on whether or not you need to replace the sump pump. If you do need to replace the sump pump, a professional can help you choose the right size and model for your home.
How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Sump Pump?
The cost of fixing a sump pump varies depending on the problem. The cost will be relatively low if the problem is something simple, such as a clogged pit or a faulty check valve. However, the cost can be quite high if the problem is more serious, such as a faulty pump.
Replacing a sump pump can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000. The best way to avoid high costs is to perform regular maintenance on your sump pump. This will help to prevent serious problems from developing.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a complete guide on how to fix sump pump not working. Follow these steps, and you’ll be sure to get your sump pump working again. And remember, if the problem is more serious, always call a professional. They will be able to help you fix the problem quickly and efficiently.