A sump pump is an essential household plumbing component for many families, although it is separate from the main plumbing system. Instead of bringing in water for drinking and washing, the sump pump prevents flooding by removing stormwater from under a home. Since the pump lives in the basement, it may be “out of sight, out of mind” for most homeowners, but it's important to ensure that it’s always functioning in peak condition so that you don't risk an inopportune breakdown. Read on to learn when you need to replace your sump pump.

Avoiding a Flood at All Costs

A flood is one of the worst disasters that could hit your home. Standing water can ruin your upholstery and woodwork in the short-term, and cause mold, mildew and rot over the long-term. That's why your sump pump is so important, as it works tirelessly to remove water before it can inundate your home. The pumps work by sucking water out of the sump, a special pit found in many basements, which collects water from outdoor drains and sends it to an area away from the home's foundation.

Follow these tips to avoid having to replace a sump pump in an emergency:

  • Listen: Get to know the hum of your sump pump when water starts collecting in the sump. If the noise coming from the motor changes significantly, it could be a sign the pump is having problems. And if you see water in the sump but don't hear anything at all, your pump might have given up the ghost entirely.
     
  • Watch: If water starts to reach the top of the sump, or worse, is already flooding your basement, you need to have the pump repaired or replaced immediately.
     
  • Count: Sump pumps that are more than ten years old are also prime candidates for replacement. You don't have to automatically buy a new unit just because yours is getting old, but it's a good idea to keep a close watch on it and install a replacement at the first sign of decreased performance. A sump pump is definitely the kind of equipment which is better to upgrade a year too early than a year too late.

Tailor Your Sump Pump to Your Household Plumbing

When you need to replace your old sump pump, you may be overwhelmed with all the options at your disposal – pumps of various powers and capacities, pedestal pumps vs. submersible pumps, and different battery backup options in case you have a power outage. When you have questions, talk to a home services professional who is familiar with your household plumbing and can assist you in picking out the model that works best for you.

If you need help replacing a sump pump or need assistance with any other aspect of your household pumping, get in touch with a licensed plumber. Contact us today at (800) 259-7705!