Is my Sump Pump Working?

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Tips to Avoid Water Damage

No power: If the power goes out during a storm, your sump pump won’t be able to drain the water.

Wrong size: If your sump pump is too small a sump pump for your home’s size can mean too big a job for it to handle. On the flip side, running too large a sump pump can shorten its lifespan.

Old age: Just like any appliance, the years can reduce the efficiency and working order of your sump pump. The average lifespan of a sump pump is roughly 10 years. If yours is creeping up in age, consider replacing it with a more current model.

Clogged pipe: Debris can enter your discharge pipe and create a backup. With nowhere for the water to flow, your sump pump will come to a stop.

Lack of maintenance: Your home and the appliances that make it run require regular maintenance. Clean your sump pump three to four times a year to avoid blockages in your discharge line, vents, and floats.

Switch issues: When the sump pump shifts in the basin, the float that administers the switch can cause it to become jammed.

Product or installation problem: In addition to product defects, which are out of your control, improper installation can also cause sump pump failure.

Sump pump fails and causes water damage while you are out of town.

A Homeowner in Livonia came home from vacation he discovered that his finished basement had 2”- 3” of standing water covering the entire basement. SERVPRO was called out to a home in to clean up the water damage.  Upon inspection, Technicians noticed mold on the walls, floor, and contents, which lead them to believe that the water damage had occurred a while ago.  

Unfortunately, the homeowner did not have insurance coverage to clean up the mess the water left behind. SERVPRO worked with the homeowner to remove affected materials and dry out the basement.

 Call SERVPRO of Aitkin, Carlton and West St. Louis Counties - (218)8798-6141