Homeowners will need effective sump pumps to protect their basements or low-lying floors. Yet these pumps see such erratic usage that they may suffer a mechanical failure or another problem without their owner noticing for some time. Irregular maintenance and testing may lead to your basement sump pump cutting out the moment you need it. However, professional home plumbing services can help you avoid this scenario.

Homeowners in Sterling, VA, can turn to Hicks Plumbing for their sump pump maintenance needs. Hicks has built a strong regional reputation for reliable services, knowledgeable team members, and outstanding customer service. We believe that plumbing problems should not interfere with our customers’ daily lives. To learn more about Hicks’ plumbing services, visit our website today!

Common sump pump problems include:

Incorrect Model

The most common problem with residential-use sump pumps involves installing an incorrect model. Manufacturers design different sump pump models for specific-sized spaces and usages. Yet amateur DIYers procure and install pumps based on what a layperson says or a builder provides without double-checking the model’s capabilities.

Device shortcomings become apparent in use. Instead, seek professional support. They tend to install a pump slightly stronger than a location’s highest regular need. The extra capacity helps ensure performance, even in the worst instances.

Improper Installation

Even if it’s the correct model, an improperly installed sump pump cannot complete its task. The tell-tale sign of this issue entails the pump motor running yet no water draining. Nevertheless, maintenance checks and testing can catch this problem before a flooding event.

The same symptom may also involve a clogged pump line—common in gravel beds or debris entry—or a closed valve on the discharge line.

Overworking and Burnout

Heavy water levels and extended running can burn out an older sump pump. The equipment must cool down for best performance, so having a pump with a higher capacity than necessary tends to avoid the burnout problem.

If your pump overworks by nature, try intermittent rather than constant use. The cooldown periods will help it last longer and get through the surge instead of failing altogether. Alternatively, adding more pumps reduces strain on all.

Clogging

Debris can penetrate drains and plug up sump pumps. Such things happen when sediment, cloth, garbage, and similar materials are in the drainage, or with brackish and murky water. Many pumps fail due to sediment build-up from a lack of maintenance or running without a lid. These pumps need a clean-out to work again.

Faulty Switch Controls

With use and time, sump pump controls will glitch. As sump pumps age—and see exposure to water, grit, and muck—they corrode. Their handle may wear out and their wiring becomes loose and disconnected. Numerous switch issues come from the float sensors getting stuck in the pump.

The sensor tells the pump to turn on and remove water. Yet root tangles and clogged drains can trigger a false turn-on with a sump pump even if no rain is present.

Home Plumbing Services Available throughout Sterling, VA

While a homeowner may try fixing their sump pump alone, they should instead seek professional home plumbing services from Hicks Plumbing Service. Our expert specialists have the know-how to spot issues and apply effective solutions. Moreover, they come with the right tools and replacement parts on hand, which cuts down repair time and gets things working again quickly. So, call us today at (703) 803-7466 or schedule an appointment on our website!