Your basement’s safety net against flooding, the sump pump, is a vital piece of equipment that requires regular maintenance and attention. However, when it malfunctions, it can leave your basement vulnerable to water damage. Our team at Global Basement Waterproofing are your go-to experts when you need help with sump pumps in MA.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through troubleshooting a malfunctioning sump pump to ensure your basement remains dry.
Check the Power Source
First things first, ensure your sump pump is plugged in and receiving power. A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse could be the culprit behind the sudden pump outage.
Test the Float Switch
The float switch is the sump pump’s trigger mechanism. Gently lift the float to see if the pump kicks into action. If not, the float switch may need replacement. You may also need to adjust the height of the float switch to ensure that the pump turns on when the water reaches a certain level. If it is set too high, the sump pump will turn on too late.
Inspect the Discharge Pipe
Ensure the discharge pipe is clear of obstructions and not frozen. A blocked or frozen pipe can impede water flow, rendering the sump pump ineffective. We recommend checking the pipe in the spring and fall to clear debris and periodically throughout the winter to check that it hasn’t frozen.
Clean the Inlet Screen
Over time, debris can accumulate in the inlet screen. Remove any clogs to allow water to flow smoothly into the pump.
Check for Pump Overheating
If your sump pump feels exceptionally hot, it may have overheated, tripping a thermal overload switch. Let it cool down before attempting to restart it. This can happen even in the winter. It depends on how hard the pump is working, not the surrounding temperature.
MA Sump Pumps: Installation and Repair from Global Basement Waterproofing
Troubleshooting your sump pump is a critical aspect of basement maintenance. A properly functioning sump pump can safeguard your basement from costly water damage. However, there are more things you can check if your sump pump isn’t working properly than we could fit into one blog post. In our next blog, we’ll take you through the rest of the list.
