Sump pumps are important: They are your first line of defence during a storm; they remove groundwater; they prevent your basement from flooding.

While many homeowners understand this great responsibility bestowed upon their sump pump, there are still many who take their sump pump for granted. And by the time they’ve come to the realization – their basement has already flooded.

With proper installation and maintenance, your sump pump should be free from irregular behavior. Whilst it’s not easy to avoid all the sump pump mistakes many homeowners make, it’s advisable to at least avoid the top ten below.

Let’s get started.

1. Power Shortage

An electrical power outage may cause damages to the sump pump.

Ensure that you have a backup power supply (battery or a generator). This keeps the motor running at all times, making sure that the pump doesn’t fail mechanically.

Always ensure that you have plugged it in at all times. And make sure that the backup power supplies are automatically enabled.

Also, prevent your pump from electrocution by covering all naked wires, and lastly, protect your electrical system from power surges which affects some parts of the sump pump.

2. Incorrect Size Installation

It’s good to always ask professionals for assistance on the appropriate size of the pump to use on your house.

This will ensure that the pump will be installed appropriately without overworking or making the pump inadequately pump the water out.

Be it a small or big sump pump; they will work correctly with the proper installation.

3. Allowing Debris And Gravel Into The Pump

This is a result of setting your pump on loose sit and small gravel.

They damage the float arm and the on/off pump switch. Set it on large gravel or rocks to prevent this clogging.

If you suspect the presence of debris in your pump, you can run a vinegar solution through the pump to clean it.

This consumes a few minutes which will spare you severe damage in the long run.

The best part is that you can do it yourself and save the cash which you could have paid a professional. Cleaning the air holes and vents will ensure the effective running of the pump.

4. Float Switch Errors

When installing the pump, make sure that the float switch is given ample space. The importance of this space is avoiding any types of hindrances that will obstruct it from floating and sinking with ease.

This space also avoids the burning up of the motor led by improper functioning of the pump.

Remember that the pump relies on the float switch to work effectively.

5. Lack Of Proper Installation

When installing the sump pump, it’s essential to follow the manufactures’ guidelines or manual.

These manuals guide you on how to effectively install the pump to avoid some common yet damaging mistakes.

This saves you money for the pump will last longer without wearing out.

6. Messing Up Valves

If wrongly installed, the check valve allows backflow causing any damages.

The sump pump’s check valve prevents the backflow of water into the pump.

So, when installing, remember to ensure that the arrow printed is pointing towards the discharge pipe.

7. Assuming Everything Is Ok

Remember: It’s always advisable to test your sump pump regularly, especially for those who rarely use them.

Testing the pump will bring any malfunction to your attention. You can test it twice a year or just before the rainy season hits.

Make sure that your pump is discharging water and if it isn’t, check if the impeller is disengaged from the shaft or if the check valve is installed reversely.

Also, confirm if the float and switch arm are not hindered by anything.

Even when the sump pump is new, test it to see if there are any defects. Lastly, ensure that the discharge pipe is not clogged by anything.

8. Ignoring Loose Wires In System

Inspecting if there are loose wires should be a typical routine for your pump maintenance. If your pump has loose wiring, it will stop running suddenly.

You have to disconnect the pump after turning it off, look for any loose wiring and replace then install the pump and switch it on to confirm if it works again.

This process will lead you to listen to the sump motor. You will be able to identify any unusual sounds when the motor is running. These noises will help you identify the significant problems and call a professional immediately. If they are straightforward problems, you will be able to troubleshoot immediately.

9. Broken Discharged Pipes

Your pump might be running, but you can’t see the water at the exit point?

This may be the problem. It’s advisable to always check your discharge pipes for this can cause significant problems.

Be it an underground system it should be inspected to avoid complications in the long run.

Final Verdict

And there you have it folks. Try to avoid these sump pump mistakes and give your sump pump a long period of effectiveness.

With proper maintenance, you are saving yourself a headache and your home from severe water damage.

The costs of repairing the pump will be saved as much as possible. You can consult with the professionals in case you are not sure of how to troubleshoot. Feel free to call 1-833-WE-DRY-IT anytime, everytime 24/7 or reach out to us on our Facebook fan page. We’re there when you need us!