Sump Pump Repair Kettering

Frequently Asked Questions About Sump Pump Repair

What is a sump pump alarm?

A sump pump alarm is a device that sounds an alert if the water in your sump pit gets too high, often indicating that the pump has failed or is malfunctioning. Consider these options:

• Water-activated alarms: They activate when water touches the sensor.
• Pressure-activated alarms: These alarms are connected to the sump pump's discharge pipe and will sound an alarm when the pressure in the pipe drops, indicating that the pump is not working. .
• High-water alarms: A float-activated switch triggers the alarm at a preset water level.

Sump pump alarms are an important safety feature, as they can give you early warning of a potential flooding problem, allowing you to take action before your basement floods. . .

How do I know if my sump pump is working?

You can test your sump pump in a few different ways:

• Listen: When the sump pump is running, you should be able to hear the motor humming. Ensure it's receiving electricity.
• Look: Check the sump pit to see if the water level is going down.. Inspect the discharge line for blockages or freezing.
• Test: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to manually raise the water level. The pump should activate as the float rises. Address any issues you observe.

It's recommended to test your sump pump regularly, especially during the rainy season, to make sure it's in good working order. . If you have any concerns about your sump pump, contact a qualified plumber to inspect it.

What should I do if my sump pump is making a loud noise?

A loud noise coming from your sump pump often indicates a problem. Troubleshooting loud sump pump noises:

• Debris in the impeller: Debris, such as rocks, sticks, or other objects, can get caught in the impeller and cause it to make a grinding noise. .
• Worn bearings: The bearings in the motor may need to be replaced if they're causing excessive noise.
• Loose impeller: Tighten the impeller to resolve this.
• Airlock in the pump: An airlock can occur when air gets trapped in the pump, causing it to make a gurgling noise. .

If you're not comfortable troubleshooting the problem yourself, or if the noise persists, it's best to call a qualified plumber. Ignoring the issue could lead to further damage or complete pump failure.

What are the different types of sump pumps?

There are several types of sump pumps available, each with its own advantages and benefits:
**Types of Sump Pumps:**

• Submersible Sump Pumps: As the name implies, submersible pumps operate underwater. They're generally more powerful and quieter than pedestal pumps, making them suitable for homes that experience frequent flooding or where noise is a concern..
• Pedestal Sump Pumps: Pedestal pumps have a motor that sits above the water on a pedestal, with a pipe extending down into the sump pit. . They are a more budget-friendly option, but they are not as discreet. They're best suited for homes that experience occasional flooding..
• Battery Backup Sump Pumps: These secondary pumps activate during power failures, ensuring continuous operation They offer essential protection during storms and outages. Consider this type of pump if you live in an area prone to power outages or if you want extra peace of mind..
• Combination Sump Pumps: These are a combination of a primary sump pump and a backup sump pump. They're the most robust solution for basement waterproofing. The primary pump is usually a submersible pump, and the backup pump is typically battery-powered. .
• Water-Powered Backup Sump Pumps: These are another backup option. . They do not require electricity to run, so they will continue to operate during a power outage. However, they are not as powerful as electric sump pumps, and they can use a significant amount of water. .

Talk to a professional to evaluate the best option for your situation.