Sump Pump Repair

Dealing with a sump pump failure is one of those unfortunate rites of passage for homeowners. But what if you could avoid getting caught in a flooded basement in the first place? The good news is, with some basic preventative maintenance, you can keep your trusty sump pump chugging along for years to come.

Like any hard-working piece of equipment, sump pumps aren’t invincible – they have some parts that inevitably wear out over time. Replacing these components on a regular schedule is key to making sure your pump doesn’t conk out when you need it most.

The Impeller & Check Valve

The impeller is the heart that actually pumps the water out, while the check valve makes sure water doesn’t flow backward. Both of these take a serious beating cycle after cycle. The impeller can get corroded or its vanes worn down, while the check valve flaps can get stuck or cracked over years of flapping open and shut.

When these two players are past their prime, your sump pump’s performance starts slipping. You might notice it running more frequently, weird noises, or water backing up into the pit. That’s when it’s time to replace them, typically every 5-7 years as a general guideline.

The Rest of the Components

While the impeller and check valve tend to need the most care, your pump has a whole starting lineup that helps keep things running strong:

• Float switch/sensor: Tells the pump to turn on/off
• Discharge pipes: Channels water away from the house
• Sump pit liner: Keeps pit walls from crumbling
• Backup battery: Powers the pump during outages

Giving each of these components a regular inspection and replacing them as needed is crucial preventative care. Letting any one component get too worn down can throw off the entire system.

Catch Problems Early & Avoid Catastrophe

Dealing with a minor sump pump repair here and there may feel like a hassle. But compare that to the nightmare scenario of your basement turning into an indoor swimming pool! A little routine maintenance goes a long way toward ensuring your pump is always ready to kick some water away from your home.

Not sure what state your pump is in or when parts were last replaced? Don’t go it alone – call in the professionals at Bassett Services. Our certified plumbers will give your system a full inspection and let you know if anything needs some attention. A quick tune-up today can save you from a huge headache down the road. Avoid getting all washed up and schedule your pump check-up today!

Sump pumps play a critical role in preventing basement flooding, so regular testing is essential to ensure it will operate properly when needed most. Most plumbing professionals recommend testing your sump pump every 2-3 months.

Why Such Frequent Testing?

While sump pumps are hardworking and reliable, they can fail without warning due to normal wear and tear on components like the impeller, float switch, check valves, and more. Testing every few months allows you to catch potential issues before they lead to pump failure and an interior flood.

The Testing Process

Testing your sump pump is a straightforward process that takes around 10-15 minutes:

• Locate the pump’s test crank, switch or plug and use it to manually activate the pump. It should powerfully turn on.
• Slowly pour several gallons of water into the sump pit using a bucket or hose. This simulates rising groundwater that would trigger the float switch during heavy rains or flooding. The pump should automatically detect the water and begin pumping it out.
• Once the pit is pumped out, let the pump continue running for 1-2 minutes to ensure it doesn’t cut off prematurely before shutting itself off.

If the pump operates as expected through all three steps, it has passed the test. If not, the pump likely needs repair or component replacement.

Why Not Just Test Yearly?

While an annual inspection by a professional plumber is still recommended, limiting sump pump testing to just once a year is unwise. A lot can go wrong in 12 months, leaving your basement vulnerable to flooding from a failed pump that testing every few months could have caught early.

The small amount of time required for quarterly testing is insignificant compared to the costs, damage and headaches a preventable flooded basement can cause. Develop the simple routine of testing your home’s hard-working sump pump every 2-3 months for peace of mind.

Your sump pump works hard keeping your basement nice and dry through every storm. But like any piece of hard-working equipment, parts can start showing their age over time. Knowing the signs that your trusty pump is about to throw in the towel gives you a chance to call in the professionals before things get ugly.

Strange Sounds Coming from the Pit

A healthy sump pump should run with a consistent, relatively quiet humming noise. But if you start hearing weird grinding, rattling, clanking or whining sounds, it’s like your pump is screaming “Something’s wrong!” Those kinds of noises usually mean parts like the impeller or bearings are wearing out and in desperate need of some attention.

The Pump Seems to Be Working Overtime

Notice your sump pump has started turning on way more frequently than normal, even when there’s no heavy rain? That’s a red flag it’s having to work double-time to keep up, likely due to developing issues somewhere in the system. Excessive cycling is a pump’s way of tell you it’s struggling.

Excessive Vibration

It’s perfectly normal for sump pumps to experience some slight vibration when they’re chugging away. But if you notice the whole pit area violently shaking and rattling, it probably means key components are getting loose and misaligned – a surefire recipe for disaster.

Constant Start/Stop Cycles

This one’s called “short cycling” – where the pump turns on, runs for just a few seconds, shuts off, then almost immediately turns back on again in a constant loop. It’s a cry for help, indicating the pump isn’t able to fully discharge water before quitting.

The Silent Treatment

Of course, if your sump pump simply refuses to turn on at all when your basement is flooded, that’s a big neon sign it’s conked out and in need of immediate repair. A pump that gives you the silent treatment when you need it most is sign someething is wrong.

Don’t wait for your sopping wet basement to finally realize your pump is on its last legs. If you notice any of these common warning signs, it’s time to give the professionals at Bassett Services a call ASAP for an inspection and repair. A quick pump tune-up beats a costly renovation hassle any day!

Your sump pump has started showing some telltale signs of wobbling on its last legs. As a diligent homeowner, you’re probably wondering if you can just roll up your sleeves and fix it yourself versus calling in the pros. It’s an understandable thought – why pay someone when you’re already Mr./Mrs. DIY around the house?

While sump pumps may seem straightforward, they’re deceptively complex systems. Trying to self-diagnose and repair one isn’t quite as easy as putting together furniture from the home improvement store. There’s a decent chance you could actually end up making the problem worse without proper training and experience.

The Risks of Sump Pump Self-Repairs

Even if you consider yourself a seasoned DIYer, here are a few reasons why sump pump repairs are best left to certified plumbing technicians:

Misdiagnosing the Root Issue

What seems like a simple fix could just be a symptom of a larger underlying problem. Replacing the wrong part won’t solve anything and will just cost you more money and time in the long run.

Improper Installation

Sump pumps need to be installed perfectly level and at the proper depth in the pit to function correctly. Even being a few inches off can allow for backflow and other costly issues.

Electrical System Safety

Working around the electrical components of a sump pump can be extremely dangerous if you don’t have the proper expertise. A simple wiring mistake could create a fire hazard or other safety risks.

Voiding Warranties

Most pump manufacturers require any repairs to be performed by authorized professionals in order to keep the equipment warranty intact. DIY fixes could potentially void your warranty protections.

The Value of Professional Sump Pump Servicing

When you bring in the trained experts from Bassett Services for your sump pump needs, you’re getting:

• Decades of specialized plumbing experience
• Properly diagnosed issues using advanced equipment
• Safety compliance with all electrical and plumbing codes
• Maintenance that preserves manufacturer warranties
• Advice for extending the lifespan of your pump

While the initial cost may give you some sticker shock, having your sump pump repaired properly the first time saves you big headaches and expenses down the road. Don’t risk a failed basement waterproofing system – invest in professional servicing from Bassett’s certified plumbers!

You know that pit of dread that forms in your stomach when you hear running water somewhere it definitely shouldn’t be? Realizing your sump pump has thrown in the towel and your basement is flooding is one of those nightmare situations no homeowner wants to face.

As panicked thoughts of sopping wet carpet and ruined belongings start racing through your mind, it’s important to take a deep breath and spring into action quickly. The faster you respond, the more water damage (and headache) you may be able to prevent. Here’s what to do when your sump pump calls it quits and your home starts flooding:

Step 1: Stop What You’re Doing

As soon as you realize there’s an overflow situation, stop whatever else you’re doing and immediately head to the basement. Trying to continue with your normal routine will just allow more and more water to accumulate.

Step 2: Shut Off the Power

Once you get to the flooded area, your first move should be to cut all electrical power to the affected areas if it’s safe to do so. Standing water and live electricity create an extremely hazardous situation – it’s not worth the risk of getting shocked.

Step 3: Call for Backup

With the power off, your next call should be to Bassett’s emergency plumbing line. The sooner we can get a truck rolling, the faster we can get that water stopped and start cleaning up the mess.

Step 4: Start Bailing

While you wait for the Bassett crew to arrive, grab any buckets, towels, mops – basically anything that can help you start bailing out and soaking up as much water as possible. The less flooding your basement takes on, the better.

Step 5: Safely Move Valuables

Once the power is off and backup is on the way, carefully start relocating any irreplaceable items, important documents, cherished belongings, etc. to drier areas if it’s safe to do so. Don’t put yourself at risk.

Step 6: Sit Tight & Stay Safe

You’ve cut power, called for help, and started bailing – now it’s time to get out of harm’s way. Evacuate the flooded area and await our certified plumbers, who will have the specialized equipment and expertise to quickly get that overflow stopped and restored.

A failed sump pump is definitely cause for panic, but staying focused can minimize excessive water damage. The moment you notice basement flooding, remember – safety first, then get Bassett Services on the way ASAP!