What to Do If Your Sump Pump Fails During a Storm

When storm clouds roll in and rain pours down, you may breathe a sigh of relief knowing your sump pump will protect your basement from flooding. But what happens when your trusty sump pump suddenly fails in the middle of a downpour? Don’t panic—this guide will walk you through troubleshooting the issue.

Why Did Your Sump Pump Fail?

Sump pumps can fail for various reasons, ranging from power outages to mechanical defects to improper sump pump installation. Follow these steps to help you find and rectify the problem.

• Check the power source: Even if your house still has power, localized electrical issues can prevent your pump from operating. Is your sump pump plugged in? If so, inspect the breaker box to make sure no circuits have tripped. If you have a backup battery system and the sump pump still isn’t working, try replacing the battery.
• Examine the sump pit for debris: A cluttered sump pit can cause sump pump failure. Open the lid and inspect for rocks, children’s toys, or other debris. The clearer the pit, the more efficiently your pump can operate.
• Inspect the discharge line: A leaky or blocked discharge line can cause water to back up, defeating the purpose of your sump pump. Look for signs of leaks or blockages where the pipe exits your home’s foundation and schedule discharge line repair if needed.
• Test the float switch: Your sump pump relies on a float switch to activate. If filling your sump pit with water doesn’t trigger the pump, you may need to replace the float switch. This is usually a job for professional sump pump installers.
• Check the weep hole and impeller: Some sump pumps come with a weep hole that can get clogged over time. If yours has one, clear it carefully with a narrow object. Similarly, check the impeller—a small but crucial filter—for clogs that may impair your pump’s operation.

Emergency Measures for Handling Water

If your sump pump has failed and water is entering your basement, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove water or mop it up manually. For more severe flooding scenarios, you might need specialized equipment to effectively remove large amounts of water. Once all the moisture is gone, be prepared to replace all affected drywall and carpeting to avoid mold growth.

Professional Sump Pump Services

If all else fails or you’re not comfortable with DIY solutions, don’t hesitate to call Parley’s PPM Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. We specialize in sump pump repair and installation, enabling us to quickly assess the situation and offer solid solutions. Our family-owned company has served the Draper area since 1979. With a tradition of unparalleled customer service and satisfaction, you can trust us to give your family the same attention we give ours.

For emergency sump pump repair, dial 801-226-3033 if you live in Utah County, or call 801-229-2665 if you’re a Salt Lake County resident. You can also fill out our online contact form, and we’ll get back to you shortly.