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Posted on October 18, 2013 by

Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Maintenance

 

Naperville Sump PumpA sump pump is an important device used to keep your basement dry and flood-free. It is strategically placed in an area where water is known to accumulate, such as a low spot or depression found on the floor’s foundation. When a sump pump begins to fail, it’s time to call a professional plumber for sump pump repairs.

Strange Noises

If your sump pump is still running but makes alarming knocking, screeching, or whining noises, this is indicative of a faulty impeller that is either frozen or broken.

Strange noises my also be a sign of defective shaft bearings which either freeze the pump or reduce the rotation speed which leads to a decrease in drainage volume. When this occurs, a professional plumber can determine if the pump needs to be repaired or needs to be replaced completely.

Odors

Mildew and sulfur are common odors that can be found in clogged sump pumps. Mildew is characterized by a strong musty smell. When sump pumps can’t effectively pump water, the pit can easily accumulate mildew. If your sump pump smells like sulfur (rotten eggs) this could be due to the accumulation of dirt, grime, and bacteria in the pumps valve.

When this occurs, it’s important to have a professional plumber clean and deodorize your sump pump completely. Additionally, a plumber can install an airtight lid that can decrease the amount of fowl smells emitted by the pump.

Clogs

Small objects like sand, twigs, grass, and pebbles can become lodged in the pump, blocking it’s flow. Clogs can occur in the intake lines, seals, valves, and drainage lines. Severe clogs can lead to excess pump pressure that can cause the motor to overheat and fail. A professional plumber should remove the clog as soon as possible to prevent flooding in your basement.

Remember it’s always best to call a Professional, Sump pump problems are best treated by a professional plumber, as they can assess, diagnose, and treat problems quickly.

Is the sump pump in your Naperville home acting up? Contact Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc. today at (630) 577-9241 or (815) 609-1859 and get it taken care of immediately!