Advanced Sewer & Drain Cleaning is more than just a drain cleaning company! We are a full-service plumbing company here in WNY that serves many towns and villages around the Kenmore / Tonawanda area. One of the factors that we take care of for WNY residents, besides drain cleaning, is sump pump repair and replacement. Your sump pump is a crucial piece of keeping your home or business safe, and though often forgotten about, it can be the reason you don’t end up paying thousands of dollars of damage.
There are a few reasons why your sump pump might fail during a WNY storm, and today on the blog, we are going to explain how. Here are a few common causes of sump pump failure.
Power Outage / Tripped Breaker
Sometimes storms can get serious here in Buffalo, and if you have something that takes out your power, whether it be a fallen tree or something else, it can stop the sump pump from running. When electricity does return, the power surge can also cause a tripped breaker, even after the power is back on. During heavy rain, the pump works overtime, so if it loses power, flooding can follow quickly.
Clogged with Debris
If something is clogging the intake or discharge pipe, the sump pump can’t do its job. Dirt, gravel, leaves, or other debris can be problematic in getting caught inside the intake or discharge pipe, which will prevent water from moving out. If you notice your pump is running, but the water doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, check to see if anything is clogging the pump.
Pump Overload
Rain, storms, and melting snow can cause drastic increases in water. If you have an older pump or a pump that isn’t properly installed, you could find yourself needing a new sump pump. The sheer volume of water can overwhelm the pump and cause the motor to overheat and burn out. A sump pump that isn’t set up properly can also cause operational issues, along with a lack of maintenance. Parts and pieces get worn out and cause failures, especially under stress.
Here’s How You Can Prevent Sump Pump Failure in a Storm
Battery Backup for the Pump
Installing a battery backup system can help to make sure your sump pump doesn’t stop running during a storm or a power outage. This can be especially helpful to keep your basement dry during severe rainstorms or after a big snow melt.
Routine Sump Pump Maintenance
Regularly inspecting and cleaning your sump pump can help to avoid issues when the going gets tough and your sump pump is going to be pushed to its limits. Ensuring that your pump is working during normal times will be beneficial to avoid issues when it’s truly needed.
Keep Discharge Lines Clear
Be sure to inspect your discharge lines to make sure they aren’t clogged with sediment, debris, leaves, or anything else. If you don’t know how to check your discharge lines, GIVE ADVANCED a Call! We will show you! If you notice something wrong or if the pump is making any weird noises, be sure to have a plumber come take a look.
If you have any questions regarding your sump pump, don’t hesitate to reach out and get on our schedule. We will have a tech come out and inspect your sump pump, its installation, the discharge lines, and all moving parts to make sure it’s in good working condition and installed properly. We are here for you!
