Common Sump Pump Issues

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, over 60 percent of homes in the U.S. suffer from below-ground wetness. Moisture, wetness, and flooding in basements and crawlspaces can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. There is a way to combat these threats, though. One common solution is a sump pump installation. Like most things, the sump pump is vulnerable to damage and faults. Identifying and diagnosing these issues are the first steps in resolving them and returning your property to its protected status. If you experience water damage as a result of a faulty sump pump, you are welcomed to call Tidal Wave Response for a consultation and appointment.

What Is A Sump Pump?

Let’s start with defining a sump pump for anyone who has not heard of this device.

A sump pump is a device designed to keep water and moisture out of a basement or crawl space. It is especially common in low-lying areas that are under the water bed, areas prone to flooding, or areas where snow melts rapidly. These devices come in two types: the submersible pump and the pedestal pump. In short, the former rests inside the water while the latter is held outside of the water.

So how does it work? If, and when, your basement floods with water, the pump is activated when the pit of the sump pump is filled with a certain level of water and drains the water away from your basement. It really is that simple!

Benefits of A Sump Pump

The direct benefit of sump pumps is clear: they prevent flooding. These simple devices also, by extension, reduce the risk of water damage, mold and mildew growth, and insect and rodent infestations. All of these issues thrive in moist environments which sump pumps help eliminate.

Some Common Issues

The sump pump is a simple device that can last for around 10 years before it needs to be replaced. Unsurprisingly, however, accidental damage, poor usage, and neglected maintenance can bring about issues. Some of the common sump pump issues include:

• Unusual Noises: Worn and damaged parts can cause your sump pump to make strange noises. Parts can be repaired or replaced, but if the unit is over 10 years old, then it might be worth replacing the unit.
• Rapid Vibrations: Bent or damaged components can also cause the sump pump to vibrate rapidly. Many times, this imbalance can be caused by a bent impeller which is almost impossible to bend back into shape. This can require replacing the unit.
• Stinky Unit: Your sump pump can smell like gas, mildew, sulfur, and waste. This can be caused by a dried-out unit, stagnant water, waste buildup, or cracks.
• Old Age: This one is inevitable, but a unit over 10 years old will start giving you issues as natural corrosion takes hold.

Experienced Water Damage?

If your sump pump failed and your property has suffered water damage, then waste no time in calling Tidal Wave Response to have that water damage restored. We are always ready to help with emergency service around the clock.