A sump pump not pumping is a waste of space and resources, but it isn’t as simple as you might think. Your sump pump is an essential feature, especially as many homes in the Ashland, Virginia, area are prone to flooding at certain times of the year. Like other home appliances, if this device develops problems and you find the catch basin isn’t draining, you shouldn’t wait to call for repairs.
Don’t leave your house vulnerable to floods, water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs! Triangle Plumbing Services is well-versed in sump pump malfunctions, causes, and repair techniques. If your sump pump is failing, regardless of the reason, contact our highly-rated plumber in Ashland, VA.
Below, we cover why your sump pump might not be pumping as it should and what to do.
Reasons Sump Pumps Fail in Ashland and How To Troubleshoot Them
These days, sump pumps are a common feature in Ashland because they prevent basement or crawlspace flooding. Plumbing professionals install sump pump basins at the lowest point of a house, which is typically the basement. A submersible or non-submersible sump pump then pumps any water that seeps into the catchment out through the foundation and disperses it away from the property.
When a sump pump works correctly, it’ll prevent a crawlspace or basement from sitting under floodwater. As a result, you can maintain your Ashland home’s structural integrity and avoid the need for water damage restoration. So, what happens when you have a sump pump that does not pump out that water effectively?
Let’s look at the common culprits behind malfunctioning sump pumps below so that you know how you can handle each scenario.
Float Switch Issues
A float switch enables water level detection. When enough water fills the sump pit, the float switch rises, triggering the equipment to turn on and pump out the water. If that float switch malfunctions, the sump pump stops running (or runs continuously when it doesn’t need to).
To address float switch problems, professionals will check for obstructions. They may also adjust the float switch sensitivity if the pump is short-cycling. A less sensitive switch will only trigger the pump when there’s enough water in the catch basin.
Inadequate Water Level in Sump Pump Pit
In Ashland, Virginia, you may think that low sump pit water levels are the goal, but a complete lack of water in the pit usually indicates a problem like incorrect pump installation or missing connections. Ideally, basements should have a drainage system to collect moisture and send it to the sump pit using gravity.
Several things might stop water from reaching the pit, including:
- Incorrect pump and drainage installations
- Floor pitch
- Clogged drain tiles
A plumber will need to restore a functional drainage system for you.
Clogged Discharge Pipe
Is your sump pump not pumping? A clog can obstruct the exit pipe, preventing drainage.
Experts like Triangle Plumbing Services remedy this situation by:
- Inspecting your sump pump and drain
- Removing dirt and debris or dislodging the clog
- Finding and checking the pump’s exit pipe outside
- Repositioning the exit pipe to direct water away from your property’s foundation
Insufficient Power to the Pump
Power supply problems will also inhibit the functionality of your Ashland sump pump. These devices run on electricity. Ensure the sump pump has enough power as follows:
- Ensure the device’s power cord is in a functional outlet
- Check the circuit breaker panel for a tripped sump pump breaker
With battery-powered sump pumps, assess the battery life.
Sump Pump Maintenance Tips for Your Ashland Property
Maintaining your sump pump is the best way to ensure your home enjoys flood protection. Routine maintenance usually includes the following:
- Visual inspection. Does your sump pump pit have debris that could clog the drain pipe or affect the float switch’s operation?
- Test batteries. Do you have a backup pump that runs on batteries? Test them.
- Listen. Is your sump pump silent for too long? If it isn’t working periodically as it should to drain the pit, get it some attention before the next storm!
Turn To Triangle Plumbing Services for Help With Your Home’s Sump Pump
Is your sump pump not pumping? One thing to know about us at Triangle Plumbing Services is that we have more than 40 years of experience in providing comprehensive plumbing solutions in and around Ashland, Virginia. Our licensed plumbers dedicate themselves to providing dependable services, swift response times, and fair prices, so get in touch.
Sump pump problem? Contact us today for peace of mind!
