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Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Summer Storms?

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With the arrival of summer comes the increased likelihood of heavy rainstorms. These downpours can wreak havoc on your basement, leading to costly water damage and mold growth. That is why it’s crucial to ensure your sump pump is ready to handle the excess water. In this article, we will guide homeowners through the steps to inspect their sump pump, identify signs of potential issues, and discuss essential services to ensure optimal functioning. Remember, for expert assistance in Edwardsville, IL, don’t hesitate to contact the professional plumbers at Morrison Plumbing to inspect and service your sump pump.

Sump Pump Inspection Steps

  1. Test the Float Switch: The float switch is a critical component of your sump pump that activates the pump when the water level rises. To test it, fill the sump pit with water until the float switch is triggered. Ensure the pump activates, starts pumping water out, and shuts off once the water level decreases. If the pump fails to turn on or off properly, it may indicate a malfunctioning float switch.
  2. Clean the Sump Pit: Over time, debris and sediment can accumulate in the sump pit, potentially clogging the pump or impeding its performance. Regularly clean the pit by removing any dirt, debris, or obstructions. Ensure that the pump’s intake screen is clear, allowing water to flow freely into the pump.
  3. Inspect the Discharge Pipe: The discharge pipe carries water away from your home. Check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or loose connections. Ensure that the pipe is properly aligned and sloped away from your foundation to prevent water from pooling near your home.

Signs of Potential Sump Pump Issues 

  1. Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any strange or unusual noises coming from your sump pump during its operation. Grinding, rattling, or excessive vibration can indicate mechanical problems, such as a worn-out motor or impeller. These issues may hinder the pump’s ability to function properly.
  2. Constant Running: A sump pump that runs continuously, even during dry weather, may indicate a malfunction. This could be due to a stuck float switch or an issue with the pump’s pressure switch. Continuous operation not only increases the risk of pump burnout but also suggests that it may not effectively handle the influx of water during heavy storms.
  3. Water Leakage: Inspect the sump pump and the surrounding area for any signs of water leakage. Puddles, dampness, or water stains may indicate a faulty seal or a crack in the sump pump housing. Water leakage compromises the pump’s efficiency and can lead to water damage in your basement.
A typical sump pump in the basement of a home in Edwardsville, IL.

Essential Sump Pump Services

  1. Sump Pump Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the optimal functioning of your sump pump. This includes cleaning the pump, lubricating moving parts, checking electrical connections, and testing the backup battery (if applicable). Professional plumbers can perform comprehensive maintenance to identify any underlying issues and address them promptly. If repairs are necessary, the experts will have the tools to carry out those repairs and restore the function of your unit.
  2. Battery Backup Installation: Installing a battery backup system for your sump pump is essential to ensure its functionality during power outages, which can often accompany summer storms. A battery backup system kicks in when the main power supply fails, providing temporary power to the sump pump and preventing basement flooding.
  3. Sump Pump Replacement: If your sump pump is old, damaged beyond repair, or unable to handle the water volume during heavy storms, it may be time for a replacement. A professional plumber can help you choose the right sump pump model for your specific needs and ensure a proper installation.

Why a Functioning Sump Pump is Important

A functioning sump pump plays a crucial role in protecting your basement from potential water damage. During heavy rainstorms or melting snow, groundwater can seep into your basement, causing flooding and structural damage. A sump pump effectively removes excess water from the sump pit, preventing it from pooling and infiltrating your home’s foundation. By keeping your basement dry, a properly functioning sump pump helps to mitigate the risk of mold growth, rot, and costly repairs. It provides you with peace of mind during stormy seasons, knowing that your valuable possessions and the structural integrity of your home are safeguarded. Investing in a reliable sump pump and ensuring its proper maintenance is a proactive step towards protecting your basement and preserving the overall condition and value of your property. To make sure your sump pump is functioning properly, contact Morrison Plumbing for a professional inspection.

A professional male plumber in uniform working in the basement of a residential home in Edwardsville, IL.

Contact Our Experts to Service Your Sump Pump

Contact Our Experts to Service Your Sump Pump
Ensuring that your sump pump is ready for summer storms is essential to protect your basement from potential water damage. By following the inspection steps outlined, including testing the float switch, cleaning the sump pit, and inspecting the discharge pipe, you can identify any issues that may hinder your sump pump’s performance. Additionally, recognizing signs of potential problems, such as unusual noises, constant running, or water leakage, can prompt timely repairs or maintenance. Professional sump pump services, including maintenance, battery backup installation, and replacement, are crucial to guaranteeing optimal functioning and peace of mind during heavy storms. For residents in Edwardsville, IL, Morrison Plumbing offers expert sump pump inspection, maintenance, and repair services. Don’t wait until it’s too late—call Morrison Plumbing at (618)-408-1523 today to ensure that your sump pump is in top condition and ready to handle the water from summer storms, keeping your basement dry and protected throughout the season.

Common Problems of a Failing Sump Pump

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At Morrison Plumbing, we offer a full line of installation, maintenance, and repair that your home sump pump may require, no matter the problem or time of year. You can count on our trusted professionals for exceptional service and quality craftsmanship. Even when your sump pump system is still keeping water from pooling in your house, there are common warning signs our experts know to look for. If you notice any of the following, a problem may be present, and it’s time to call the professionals at Morrison Plumbing for a broken sump pump repair:

Sump Pump Running Continuously

Is your sump pump unit always on, running during all hours of the day and never stops? Your home’s sump pump may be facing a stuck float switch, a float switch out of adjustment, or even a pump cord and float switch plugged in separately. The most common cause of a sump pump running continuously is when the float switch is stuck in the “on” position, which will cause your sump pump to run even when all the water has been removed. Unfortunately, if not corrected, this will make your sump pump burn out prematurely. To avoid this happening, check each of these possibilities and see if you can identify the problem. If it is still unclear, call our experts at Morrison Plumbing to inspect your unit and determine the source of the plumbing issue.

 

Sump Pump Starts & Stops Too Often

Sump pumps generally run in intervals, as needed, but they can sometimes run continuously or start and stop too often. Unfortunately, this will lead to higher energy bills and cause your unit to endure additional strain and wear out faster. You should check the float switch as well as the check valve to see if either is malfunctioning. If your home sump pump is switching on and off many times a minute, it could be a sign that water is coming back into the pit from a pipe discharging water. To be safe, your best bet is to call the sump pump repair experts at Morrison Plumbing before your sump pump problem escalates. We offer effective solutions to any plumbing issue and will accomplish every job with accuracy and efficiency.

A plumber repairing a sump pump in a flooded basement in a residential home in Caseyville, IL.

Sump Pumps Prone to Excess Amounts of Water

If your sump pump motor hums but little or no water flows, there could be multiple issues at fault with your sump pump. The problem may be the suction intake screen getting partially or completely blocked. Other possibilities include the discharge pipe leaking or the impeller becoming badly damaged. All of these could be the result of too much stress on your sump pump unit, which will require a professional repair service. Call a Morrison Plumbing repair expert right away to have your home’s sump pump professionally diagnosed and fixed. We prioritize the safety and comfort of our customers and we want to ensure that your home functions as smoothly as possible. If you live in Caseyville, IL, an area prone to an excess amount of water each year, call us today at (618) 408-1716 and we’ll help you with your sump pump problem.

Sump Pump Ejects Water & Shuts Off Early

Is your sump pump working for a bit but shutting off before all water is pumped out? You could be facing a float switch that is out of adjustment or has broken down and is no longer usable. Another cause may be that your pump is overheating and shutting off because of thermal overload. The first thing you can check is ensuring your sump pump is plugged directly into the outlet with no extension cables. Caseyville, IL, sump pump units that don’t get the proper electrical flow tend to work less efficiently and cause a dramatic decrease in how much water they can pump out. If you are experiencing this issue with your sump pump, please contact our expert technicians at Morrison Plumbing today.

A satisfied homeowner shakes hands with the professional plumber who resolved her sump pump problem in Caseyville, IL.

No matter the problem, our Caseyville, IL , sump pump repair plumbers will determine what needs to be repaired before any work is done so you know exactly what solution is best for your home’s system.

Think your home sump pump may need a repair, but you’re still not sure? Visit our website at https://morrisonplumbing.com/plumbing-services/sump-pump-repair-cost-near-caseyville-illinois/ to ask an expert at Morrison Plumbing for fast answers. Enjoy reliable advice and services from a company you can trust.