Sump pumps are devices that are typically installed in basements to prevent flooding. Repairing your sump pump may be necessary if it is broken, and can range from having a new model installed to replacing the worn parts (such as the impeller).
In this article, we will talk about the different types of sump pumps that are out there, what you can expect to pay for installation or repair, and what you should know about this type of repair. Here’s all you need to know.
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Need To Know Sump Pump Information
Sump pumps can and will fail, and when they do it’s often at the worst possible times: during a storm or other serious weather event that could result in flooding. You will need to get one of these repaired as soon as possible, but if your sump pump is completely broken then it may be necessary to replace it with a new model.
How much you spend on the repair depends on the type of sump pump you get installed (there are several varieties including submersible, pedestal, and whole house), where you live (costs vary per region), and how much time you have to spend shopping around for prices. The average cost in most areas is approximately $500-$1,000 for installation and repair.
The average lifespan of a sump pump is about 10-15 years, but this will vary depending on the quality of the model that you purchase and how well you take care of it. Unfortunately, one of the most common reasons for a broken sump pump is water freezing inside the pipes or motor housing.
This can cause serious damage to your machine and result in an expensive repair bill. Be sure to keep your unit from getting wet during the winter months by draining it as much as possible, covering your sump pit with insulation, and ensuring there are no leaks around/in your unit casing or power cord.
Even if you do everything right though, sometimes these devices simply lose their mojo and need to be replaced. This may happen sooner if you have a high water table that doesn’t drain properly, or you live in a climate with heavy snowfall that might bury the unit.
Repairing A Sump Pump
These steps will vary depending on what’s wrong with your sump pump, but you should check the following:
- The cord is plugged into a working outlet.
- Check that there is no debris in the intake of your unit (sand, grass clippings, leaves). If there is any water standing around or in your pit, make sure it’s pumped out. If you need to, de-winterize and drain the pit and pipes (take care not to damage anything though).
- Make sure that the float switch is centered by lifting on one side of it as you push down on another. This will ensure that it closes properly.
- Take out any debris if you still experience problems after this step.
All in all, sump pumps may not be fun to deal with but doing so can save you from major water damage to your basement one day. After all, prevention is just about always better than having to fix things that have already gone wrong.
Other Things You Shouldn’t Forget
- Smaller pumps generally move faster since they don’t have as much emptying to do (so it won’t take as long for them to come on after they sense flooding)
- Sump pumps with a plastic impeller tend to wear out a bit faster than the metal ones
- You may want to consider getting a backup pump if you live in an area prone to heavy rain or flooding, or if you have a very high water table
- The lifespan of most pumps is approximately 10-15 years
- Make sure your sump pit has been professionally cleaned and inspected at least once every 3 years, or more often depending on how often you need it to work properly (if you notice that there’s always water in your pit then it may be time for a checkup)
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Installing A Sump Pump
Sometimes, it’s not possible to repair your sump pump; for instance, if your unit was severely damaged in some way (such as by breaking through the side of the casing while trying to remove ice) then it may be time to simply get a new model.
Installing a sump pump might cost less than repairing one, but you must choose the right type of pump to avoid future problems. You should also be willing to do some research and shopping around to find out which models are best for your home and location (for example, some pumps are not meant for climates with heavy snowfall or places with high water tables).
Before installing a sump pump, be sure to check local building codes so that you can make sure your new model is safe and legal.
Anatomy Of A Sump Pump
Most modern sump pumps are small, cylindrical devices with a few important parts. For instance, there is usually a float that hangs inside the pump and detects when the water level rises too high. When this happens, the pump immediately starts moving liquid through one outlet so that it can be safely pumped away from your home.
The motor component of sump pumps typically has two main sections: the impeller and housing. The actual turbine and blades (or fins) where all the action takes place is usually made of solid metal or another sturdy type of material; however, some advanced models might use plastic instead since it’s lighter and often less expensive.
The body of a sump pump also includes several other components such as pipes (for transporting liquid out), wiring, and a switch for turning the machine on and off. The housing is usually very sturdy and able to stand up against various types of environmental damage (such as flooding or ice).
Sewage Ejector Pumps
A sewage ejector pump is an important part of any septic system, and it’s typically installed in basements or other lower areas.
These pumps are usually small, hardworking devices that work to pump out wastewater from your bathroom sinks and toilets. However, if the liquid level drops too low then the ejector pump may become flooded with liquid waste and stop working properly.
A blocked sewage ejector pump could even overflow and cause a serious backup problem in your home. This is why it’s vital to get these types of pumps repaired as soon as possible after they fail- otherwise, you will have to deal with a very big mess indeed.
A sewage ejector pump will usually have an impeller made of metal; however, the casing might be made out of plastic instead. This is because sewage ejector pumps are often filled with water- like a sump pump- and they need to make sure that all parts will resist corrosion by liquids (but not always).
Final Thoughts On Guide To Sump Pump Repair
In conclusion, dealing with your sump pump can be a very uncomfortable task if done incorrectly. Using the guide above will ensure that you can maintain it as needed and know which actions to take when trouble is on the horizon. The last thing you want to happen is for your sump pump to break down in the middle of winter causing damage to your basement.
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