Sump Pump Problems
Sump Pump Problems - Call (613) 764-0572
We Replace, Service and Install pumps to keep Basements Dry
Common sump pump problems and basement flooding are a homeowner’s nightmare. Whether you live in a place that’s prone to heavy rains or you want to safeguard your home. Especially against water damage, sump pumps can be great additions to your home. Sump pumps, which, when installed in your basement or crawl space, work hard to keep your home dry. With the correct setup and monitoring, getting through the spring runoff without incident. As Spring advances and temperatures increase, the water table around your property rises. The movement of this water, based on soil structure, tells how well it will drain. In some areas, sump pumps will run for 12 months of the year. At the same time, others might see some water movement in the spring and then dry for the rest of the year.
To ensure worry-free time, maintain and prepare your sump by inspecting and replacing parts when the pump slows down. Remove and clean the pump inlets if they become clogged over time, especially in iron-rich areas.
The 5 Most Common Sump Pump Problems
1. Faulty float switch
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2. A Clogged sump pump
3. The Wrong size of the pump
Pumps need matching to the rate of flow coming into the sump. A pump of 1/4 hp is no match when the sump fills every minute. Being overpowered is better than underpowered.
4. An overwhelmed pump
An overwhelmed pump is a recipe for a flooded basement. As mentioned earlier, don’t underrate the horsepower of the pump. Nine months of the year may be dry. Then, all hell can let loose during the Spring runoff. We have known pumps to cycle every minute during these times.
5. Inproper pump installation
Knowing your sump pump problems is half the battle. If your pump is struggling, the installation could be at fault. For instance, if you hear the motor running but don’t see water pumping. Your technician might not have installed a check valve correctly. Explore the system by a method of elimination to find the problem.
We can be contacted via our Contact Page or Tel: (613) 674-0572.
Battery Back-Up Systems for Sump Pump Problems
Battery Backup Systems
There are many different systems available to the homeowner for protection from flooding. These systems consist of a secondary pump plumbed into the outlet pipework. Power is from a 12-volt battery, preferably a deep-cycle marine battery. The battery is on a constant trickle charge while power is available. Once the power goes off and the system float triggers the battery, water is removed from the sump. Depending on the battery size will determine the number of times the battery backup system will empty the sump and save your basement.
Sump Pump Problems - Home Maintenance
The picture above shows a sump pump replaced in a heavy iron-rich area. Iron bacteria live in the soil and create a thick brown slimy deposit which, in time clogs up the pumps and makes the float switches unreliable. The second pump was a battery back up system which had totally stopped working. This could all been avoided if proper maintenance was carried out in a timely manner.
Links to Sump Pump Suppliers
Standard Check Valve
Check Valves need to be replaced every 3-4 years as water can affect the rubber flap valve causing it to become stiff and brittle and then break off. These standard valves can be used with 1.1/4" or 1.1/2" ABS.