What is a Sump Pump?
Sump pumps are more than just another piece of hardware in your home. The pump is placed in the lowest level of the house in either the basement or crawl space and pumps the water away. Homes built in an area with a high water table are especially susceptible during stormy weather. You can have either a top-mounted pump above the floor or a pump located at the bottom of a pit.
The pump is placed in the lowest level of the house in either the basement or crawl space and pumps the water away. Homes built in an area with a high water table are especially susceptible during stormy weather. Homeowners can choose between submersible units that sit inside the pit or pedestal styles that rest above the floor. Both are effective when properly installed and maintained.
A working sump pump is an excellent investment. However, there are a few factors you should consider before getting one installed.
Preventative Maintenance
Ensuring the optimal performance of your sump pump lies heavily on routine inspection and maintenance.
- Perform periodic tests by pouring water into the sump pit to ensure the float properly activates the pump.
- Keep your sump pit clean and free of any debris that could interfere with functionality.
- Maintain a backup power source to safeguard against unexpected power outages.
- Schedule an annual inspection by a plumbing professional for a more in-depth look into your sump pump’s overall condition.
Why Sump Pumps Matter During Storms
When heavy rain starts pouring in Wisconsin, your sump pump becomes one of the most important defenses your home has. Heavy storms can cause groundwater to rise quickly, flooding basements and crawl spaces in a matter of hours. A reliable sump pump doesn’t just move water—it protects your foundation, your belongings, and your peace of mind.
However, even the best system has its limits. Understanding how your pump handles excess water during stormy weather—can mean the difference between a dry basement and costly repairs.
Sump Pumps Don’t Eliminate the Threat of Floods Completely
A sump pump provides valuable protection, but it’s important to understand its limits. Even with a sump pump, flooding can still occur if:
- Gutters or downspouts are clogged.
- Draining capacity is overwhelmed by extreme rainfall.
- The pump malfunctions or loses power.
If your home frequently experiences flooding, consider installing a second or backup pump. Battery-powered backups keep your system running during outages when you need it most.
Benefits of a Battery Backup Sump Pump
A sump pump is great, but there are several problems that can arise, which necessitate having a backup in place. The best option is to invest in a battery backup sump pump. This prevents issues such as:
- Electrical Outages: With no power, your sump pump will stop functioning, and if you have a second electrical sump pump as backup, the power outage will render it useless as well. A battery backup automatically runs even when there’s no electricity.
- Clogs and Jams: Battery backup is designed to kick in automatically whenever your sump pump stops working. If the pipes are clogged, waste is rerouted through the backup instead. If there’s a jam, it will be detected by the float switch, which can sense when the water level passes a certain point.
- Break downs: Particularly if you’ve had it a while, it may simply stop working one day—and always at the most inopportune time. Fortunately, if that happens, your battery backup will take over and keep your plumbing running normally until you can get the original pump fixed.
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
A battery backup system is a great preventative measure. It attaches to your main pump without the need for any special tools without creating any major upheaval. What’s more, the battery is self-charging. That means, once it’s installed, it will never run out of power, and will always be ready to kick in when you need it.
A battery backup is an easy choice for preventing flooding in your Wisconsin home, keeping your system running at all times, no matter what problems may arise. Contact us at Benjamin Plumbing to help you install your battery backup sump pump!
A Sump Pump May Continue To Run Days After Heavy Rain
After a big storm, your sump pump may continue to run for two to three days. This may be due to higher than normal groundwater levels that need to be drained away from your house. However, you may need to check on your sump pump if it seems to be running for too long. A professional can perform a detailed maintenance check for you.
Also, take note of your yard’s elevation when deciding if you should install a sump pump. Flatter areas or yards at the bottom of a hill can accumulate excess groundwater faster than homes on slopes.
Once the Rain Stops, Can You Turn Off Your Sump Pump?
Some people turn off their sump pump when there’s no water to drain. This is NOT recommended! Remember, a sump pump typically only runs when it needs to. When no water is running into the sump pit, no electricity is being used. If your sump pump runs intermittently, it is because it needs to.
If your sump pump runs nonstop for a considerable amount of time, professional attention is most likely needed to ensure it still functions properly.
A professional can check if one of the sump pump’s parts is out of line or if it needs repairs. If your pump stops working, it might be because of damaged parts or battery failure. Having a backup power source is a welcome measure, especially if your device runs a lot after heavy rain.
Identifying the Signs of a Failing Sump Pump
Most sump pumps last around 8-10 years, but recognizing early warning signs can help you avoid an unexpected failure. Watch for:
- Loud or unusual noises.
- Constant cycling (turning on and off).
- Rust or visible corrosion.
- Motor failure or failure to start.
- Frozen or blocked discharge lines.
If your sump pump shows these signs — or if it trips your circuit often — it’s time for a professional inspection or replacement.
Immediate Actions to Take When Your Sump Pump Fails
Should you encounter a sump pump failure, your immediate response can significantly curtail the extent of damage.
- Unplug the sump pump to ward off any electrical risks.
- If it is safe, eliminate any standing water using a wet vacuum or portable pump.
- Safeguard your valuables by removing them from the flood-prone area to prevent further damage.
- Contact your homeowner’s insurance and a professional plumbing company as soon as possible. Acting promptly and effectively at the first sign of trouble can keep a minor malfunction from snowballing into a larger, more costly issue.
Keep Your Sump Pump Functioning During Storms
At times, handling sump pump issues on your own might seem manageable, but opting for professional plumbing services offers an unparalleled advantage. At Benjamin Plumbing, we don’t just fix the problem; we provide an extensive assessment, unearthing potential challenges, and deliver efficient solutions.
Hire our team of experienced plumbers from Benjamin Plumbing in Madison, WI to address your plumbing issues at home. We have the skills, tools, and knowledge to solve these problems. Call us today for more information.
