Have you got a sump pump in your home to prevent flooding during rainy periods? This can mean the difference between having peace of mind and having ruined belongings and extensive cleanup to do. But since the sump pump is often tucked into a dark corner of the basement, it can be easy to forget about it until something goes wrong. How much do you know about your sump pump? You might not even know how long you can expect it to last, but we can help you out.
General Sump Pump Lifespan Estimates
There are many manufacturers and models of sump pump, and a plumber taking a look at yours in person can tell you more about what to expect from it. But in general, it’s reasonable to expect a sump pump to keep working for at least seven years, and often ten or more.
Your Sump Pump’s Unique Life Experience
In some homes, the sump pump sits in a dry pit most of the year, with no work to do, and then has a brief busy season. In other homes, the sump pump runs at least occasionally all year long and works very hard during the rainiest part of the year. It may be obvious that running more equates to more wear and tear. But sitting dry can cause issues as well, such as the float switch becoming stuck in position and not moving up when water enters the pit.
Keeping Clean
One of the things that is most detrimental to a sump pump is when foreign matter—anything other than water—becomes lodged in its mechanisms. This can be as simple as sediment from dirty or hard water, but it can include outdoor debris like leaves, indoor debris like small items being dropped or swept into the pit, or clumps of mold growing in the water. To keep your sump pump functional for as long as possible, you should regularly check the pit and pump for anything that could gum up the works.
Annual Maintenance
To perform sump pump maintenance, your plumber will disconnect the pump from power and from the discharge pipe. Both the pit and the pump will be thoroughly cleaned. Mechanical parts like the check valve and float switch will be inspected. Any problems, such as rust, cracks, or leaks in any part of the system can be caught early and repaired before they lead to major issues or a completely failed pump. And your plumber can give you some pointers on how best to treat your specific pump, as well as recommendations regarding when to consider replacing it.
Warning Signs
To avoid pump failure, get sump pump repair in Suwanee, GA promptly at the first sign of a problem. Oil floating on top of the water in the pit can indicate that something has cracked, and oil is leaking out of the motor. Rapid cycling could indicate that the check valve is broken, allowing water to flow backward into the pit again, forcing the pump to keep pushing the same water out over and over. And any strange noises should always be investigated by a professional.
To speak with a member of our team, contact DC Cheek Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today. Fixed, At the Speed of Life!
