In the event of flooding, your sump pump quickly cleans water out of your basement to prevent damage to your foundation and belongings. However, a malfunctioning sump pump will worsen the situation and require flood damage cleanup. Use this beginner’s guide to learn about possible sump pump problems, and avoid extra flood damage cleanup. 

Why Doesn’t Your Sump Pump Work?

1. Wrong Size

A sump pump that is too small or not strong enough is easily overwhelmed. An overworked sump can’t get rid of the water fast enough to be effective. At a minimum, your sump pump should have one-third horsepower, although a one-half horsepower pump might be necessary for high water volumes. 

2. Clogged Pump 

A clogged pump results in slow water flow, or none at all. Dirt and debris from your basement can clog the pump itself or the switch. Always keep the lid on, and keep the sump pit clear of dirt and debris. 

3. Frozen Pipes 

Frozen pipes cause water to flow back into your basement, leading to twice the flood damage cleanup. Homeowners living in cold climates should install a discharge pipe for water to exit if the main pipe freezes. 

4. No Power 

The same storms that cause basement flooding can also cause power outages. Use a back-up generator or battery-operated sump pump to keep the power on, and avoid storm recovery.

5. Poor Maintenance 

Every four to six months, you should clean and test your sump pump. Make sure the sump pit and surrounding area are clean. Then, add a few gallons of water to the pit. The float should activate the pump when it gets too high. Finally, run two cups of vinegar through the sump pump to clean inside.

In the event of a broken sump pump, let Restoration 1 of Evansville help with your flood damage cleanup. Located in Evansville, IN, these restoration specialists are ready 24/7 to tackle your emergency. After a flood, they will combat water damage by drying surfaces and items, while removing the water and addressing any electrical hazards. Learn more about their water damage restoration services online, or call (812) 641-8132 to schedule an appointment.