How Do You Know When To Replace Your Basement Sump Pump?
Every time heavy periods of rain sweep across the land, you can guarantee that there are basements full of stuff being adequately protected by a simple sump pump. These pumps are designed to kick into action when water is detected in a low-lying spot in your basement, so the units serve such a valuable purpose. If you have a sump pump hanging out in your basement that you rarely give any thought to, you may now be questioning when the basement sump pump should be replaced. Here are a few things to consider so you don't get caught with a dysfunctional sump pump and a flooded basement.
Your pump has been sitting for years and not been used.
You may think that a sump pump in your basement that has never been used is just fine. However, most plumbers will recommend that you have an old pump replaced if the unit has been sitting idle for a number of years. Why? Essentially, a sump pump that sits idle can develop problems with the degradation of some of its internal and external operating components. For example, the inner rubber seals that retain air pressure, the motor, and the float sensors can corrode and break down. Have your sump pump properly tested annually to prevent problems.
Your sump pump is generating a great deal of noise when in action.
Even though sump pumps do naturally make some noise when they are operating, the noise should not be so unbearably loud that the pump is a nuisance. Usually, a loud pump is signaling that the operational moving parts within the unit are starting to break down or wear out. While tightening fasteners and making sure the pump is properly seated can help, a lot of noise can also mean you will need pump replacement in your basement pretty soon.
You hear the pump running for long periods or when it shouldn't be running at all.
Old sump pumps tend to get really slow about doing their jobs. The internal mechanisms that force the pump to move gradually deteriorate, and the motor itself begins to wane. You may notice it seems to take forever for the sump pump to clear a puddle of water from your basement. You may even realize you hear your pump running when there is no water in the basement at all. A pump that has slowed or is kicking on without cause is likely in need of replacement.
Contact a company like Good 2 Go Plumbing to learn more.