How to Fix a Sump Pump That’s Not Working

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Are you experiencing flooding in your basement due to a broken sump pump? It’s one of those home plumbing issues that can instantly turn your day into a nightmare. When your sump pump fails, it puts your home at risk of severe water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. Not to mention, dealing with a flooded basement is a stressful and time-consuming experience that no one wants to face.

The good news is that most sump pump issues are fixable, and the sooner you address them, the less damage you’ll have to worry about. Understanding the common reasons why a sump pump might stop working and knowing how to troubleshoot can save you from the avoidable stress of full-blown flooding.

Here are the typical causes of a malfunctioning sump pump and how to fix them before the water takes over.

Check the Power

The first thing you should do when your sump pump isn’t working is to check whether it’s getting power. It may seem like a no-brainer, but power issues are the most common cause of pump failure.

Begin by confirming that the pump is plugged into a working outlet. If it’s loose or unplugged, the pump obviously won’t run. After this, check the power source to ensure the outlet is functioning. Confirm this by plugging in another device, like a lamp, to see if it gets power. If the outlet isn’t working, take a look at your circuit breaker panel to see if any breakers have tripped, and just flip them back to the “on” position.

Additionally, some sump pumps are connected to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet, which may trip and cut off power. This looks like a standard electrical outlet but has “Test” and “Reset” buttons for safety, and it’s typically used in areas with water. Press the reset button to restore your pump’s power. If the breaker or outlet is repeatedly tripping, this could be a sign of a larger electrical issue that requires a professional plumber.

Test the Pump

Once you’ve confirmed that the sump pump is powered on, the next step is to test whether the pump is working properly. Many sump pumps are activated by a float switch, which rises as the water level increases. If your pump isn’t turning on, manually lift the float to simulate rising water levels. The pump should start running as the float is lifted.

If the pump doesn’t start, the issue could be with the motor, the float mechanism, or an electrical connection. If you hear the motor running but water isn’t being pumped out, there could be an internal issue such as a jammed impeller or damaged motor. If the motor doesn’t turn on at all, it could be a more serious electrical or mechanical issue. In either case, you may need to contact a technician for a sump pump repair or replacement.

Check for Clogs

If your sump pump is running but not discharging water properly, the problem might be a clog in the discharge pipe. Over time, debris like dirt, rocks, or even leaves can build up inside the discharge pipe, restricting water flow. If water is backing up in the sump pit or spilling over, this is a strong sign of a clog. Start by inspecting the discharge hose for any visible blockages.

You can remove the hose and attempt to clear out any debris manually, or use a plumber’s snake or a high-pressure water nozzle to clear the pipe. If the discharge line runs underground, you may need a plumber to inspect and clear any deep blockages. In colder climates, it’s also possible for the discharge pipe to freeze in winter, so ensure it’s properly insulated to avoid this problem.

Inspect the Float

The float is the part that checks the water level in the sump pit and tells the pump when to turn on or off. If the float is stuck or obstructed, the pump won’t know when to activate, leading to water damage in your basement.

First, inspect the sump pit to ensure the float is moving freely. Sometimes debris like dirt, algae, or even small objects can obstruct the float’s movement. If you find any obstruction, clean the surrounding area of the float to ensure it can move up and down without interference.

Also, check that the float isn’t tangled in the power cord or stuck against the side of the pit. If the float is damaged or malfunctioning, it will need to be replaced. Many sump pumps have adjustable floats that can be set at different levels, so make sure the float is set at the appropriate height for your specific pump model.

Examine the Check Valve

Notice that small cylindrical or boxy device in your sump pump? That’s the check valve that prevents water from flooding back into the sump pit after it has been pumped out. If the check valve is malfunctioning, water can return into the pit, causing the pump to cycle unnecessarily or leading to flooding. If you notice water pooling in the sump pit after the pump has run, it may be due to a faulty check valve.

Check for signs of leaks or cracks around the valve, and if it’s damaged, it should be replaced. Sometimes, the valve can get stuck and prevent proper water flow, so you should test the valve by gently tapping it to ensure it opens and closes correctly. If the check valve is broken, replacing it is usually a quick and inexpensive fix. Just make sure the new valve is installed in the right direction, following the arrows on the valve body, to ensure proper water flow.

Dominate Your Sump Pump Problems with Domination Plumbing & Heating

A malfunctioning sump pump can quickly turn your basement into a waterlogged nightmare. Whether it’s a stuck float, clogged discharge pipe, or a power failure, ignoring the issue can lead to costly damage and mold growth.

At Domination Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in fast, reliable sump pump repairs and replacements to keep your home dry and protected. Our team is always ready to answer your call and tackle any sump pump problem, big or small, so you can get back to enjoying a worry-free home.

Get ahead of the flood and water damage—contact Domination Plumbing & Heating today to solve your sump pump problems with confidence!

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