For many homeowners, having a sump pump is a necessary addition to their basement in order to keep the space dry and prevent flooding. However, while these machines are designed to be reliable and durable, they are not invincible. A failing sump pump can be a nightmare. When it fails, the water can quickly accumulate in your basement and cause significant damage. Here are some tips and tricks on what to do if your sump pump fails.

Identify the source of the problem

When your sump pump fails, the first thing you should do is identify the source of the problem. Check if the electrical outlet has power and the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. If the power source is not the problem, try to determine if any signs of damage or wear and tear can be observed on your sump pump. The issue could be a stuck switch, a clogged discharge pipe, or a damaged float switch—it's important to identify the problem to know how to get down to fix it.

Take action and turn off the power supply

If you’ve identified the problem, you should turn off the power supply before any attempts to fix your sump pump. You can accomplish this at the primary circuit breaker box. Turning off the power supply ensures that you’re safe from any possible electrocution or shocks while working on your sump pump's repair.

Check and unclog the discharge pipe

A clogged discharge pipe can be a common cause of sump pump failure. Check the discharge pipe for debris that may obstruct the water flow. During heavy rains, a significant amount of debris can move into the pipe, which can cause it to clog. In such a case, you can remove the debris and then test-run the pump again to see if it’s working correctly.

Replace or repair the float switch

The float switch plays a vital role in the functionality of a sump pump. It is responsible for sensing the water level in the sump basin and activating or deactivating the pump based on that information. If the float switch is malfunctioning or is damaged, the pump may not activate, leading to a flood. Fortunately, you can either repair or replace the switch. You can get a replacement switch from a hardware store or from some online shops. If you’re not sure how to replace or repair the switch, you should contact a professional.

For more info about emergency plumbing services, contact a local company.