Spring in Wisconsin means melting snow, lots of rain, and generally wet conditions. We tend to see a lot of flooded basements and sump pump issues around this time of year. With that in mind, we’ve put together some of the top sump pump issues and what to do if your sump pump isn’t working correctly.
Common sump pump issues in Wisconsin
One of the first things you want to do when your sump pump isn’t working is try to diagnose the problem. Here are a few common sump pump issues we see here at Watters…
- The sump pump is overwhelmed. During rainy, wet Wisconsin springs and when the snow melts, sometimes it can be hard for your sump pump to keep up. If this is the case, you may see water backing up into your basement.
- The sump pump is constantly running non-stop. If you hear your sump pump running constantly, even when it’s not overly wet or rainy outside, it could be a sign of a bigger issue. When your pump is constantly running, it’s at risk of burning out.
- The sump pump lines are clogged or frozen. During cold Wisconsin temperatures, discharge lines can become frozen or clogged, preventing the sump pump from expelling water. You may hear the pump trying to work, but the basin doesn’t empty.
- There’s no water in the sump pit. If your pump seems to be running but there’s no water in the sump pit, it is generally linked to a failed installation.
- Noise. While a little noise is normal, unusual thumping or thuds isn’t normal for your sump pump and generally signals a problem with the motor.
What to do when you have sump pump issues
If you’re dealing with or trying to prevent sump pump issues, here are a few things you can do.
- Contact a plumbing professional. They can help you diagnose your sump pump issue and replace or repair your pumps as needed. It’s best to contact them before there’s bad weather that could lead to a sump pump failure and a flooded basement.
- Upgrade your pump. You may need a better sump pump and a battery backup sump system to keep your basement dry.
- Turn off the power before you touch the pump. Water and electricity don’t mix, so put safety first whenever you’re inspecting or fixing sump pump issues.
- Keep the sump pump clear of debris. Debris can clog the pipes and prevent the sump pump from working efficiently.
If you need a new sump pump or are dealing with a sump pump failure, the team at Watters is here to help.
Request an estimate or give us a call.
Call Watters Plumbing now to handle your leaky repairs. Easy call, fast fix.
Read More:
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Your Sump Pump
Prevent Flooding in Your Wisconsin Basement With These 6 Tips