Sump pumps work hard to keep your basement and crawl spaces in your home dry. However, if you have one installed on your property, it’s only a matter of time before you encounter some issues that prevent it from working correctly. A full-service plumbing contractor can assess and fix problems with sump pumps, but it may be possible to resolve some simple operational issues on your own with a bit of troubleshooting.

How to Troubleshoot Sump Pump Failures

Why won’t the sump pump start?

Sump pumps often stop running due to a low float switch or jammed impeller. Before adjusting the float switch or checking the impeller for blockages, be sure to unplug the pump from its power source. Reposition the float switch to keep it from getting stuck, then test it by raising the float manually or by adding more water until it triggers the sensor.

If both the float switch and impeller appear normal, look for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers, which would cause the pump to lose power. Consider plugging the pump into an extension cord or another power source, if the outlet in use looks overloaded.

Is there a way to stop a sump pump from running nonstop?

There are several reasons why a sump pump may run nonstop. A stuck switch, extra water in the pit, or excessive inflow can cause pumps to work overtime. Nonstop operation can result in premature failure of the unit. Pay attention to the float switch’s position. If it’s stuck in the “on” position, check if it’s being jammed by a foreign object. Remove the blockage, then move the switch back to its correct position.

If the pump motor is running, but the water inside the pit is not being discharged, look for clogged or frozen discharge pipes. Any debris blocking the lines will make it difficult to expel water. It is also possible that the discharge pipes are leaking, sending water back into the pit.

There are instances when water inflow is more significant than water outflow, causing the pump to work harder to discharge water. For this issue, have a plumber replace the pump with a bigger one or install a backup to help with the load.  

Why does a sump pump shut down early or stop frequently?

When a sump pump discharges but turns off right away, even with water in the pit, it can be due to an overheated motor or faulty float switch. Inspect the pump. Plug it into an outlet on a single circuit. Test and adjust the float switch to ensure it gets triggered when water reaches an acceptable level. Have a plumbing professional test the check valve as well.

Sometimes troubleshooting a malfunctioning sump pump is better left to the experts. Since 1946, the Osterwisch Company of Cincinnati, OH, has provided plumbing, heating and cooling, and electrical services to clients throughout the Tri-State region. To learn more about this trusted plumbing and electrical contractor, visit them online or call (513) 791-3282 today.