How can I tell if my sump pump is failing? If you’ve asked this question, you’re not alone - and sump pump problems are one of the most important things you can look into to protect your home.

When it comes to preventing water damage, your sump pump is the unsung hero of your basement. Designed to automatically remove excess water and prevent flooding, a working sump pump can save you thousands in repairs and protect your home from mold, structural damage, and ruined belongings. But like any appliance, it can fail - sometimes without warning.

At Swift Restoration and Remodeling, we’ve seen firsthand how a small sump pump issue can turn into a major water damage emergency. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the common causes of failure, what you can do to keep your system running smoothly, and how we can help with expert water damage cleanup and restoration if disaster strikes.

Sump Pump Problems That Can Quickly Flood Your Home

Even the best sump pumps can run into trouble and be the reason for basement flooding and water damage in your property. Some of the most common issues include:

Power Failures

In order to work properly, sump pumps need electricity, so they’re useless during power outages, especially during storms. Without a backup power source, your basement could flood in a matter of hours.

Clogged or Frozen Discharge Lines

If the water discharge line becomes clogged with debris or freezes during cold weather, water can’t escape properly. This backup can cause the sump pit to overflow and flood your basement.

Mechanical Malfunctions

Over time, the pump’s float switch or motor can wear out. If the float gets stuck or the motor burns out, the pump won’t activate when water levels rise.

Improper Installation or Sizing

A pump that’s too small for your space or improperly installed won’t be able to handle heavy water flow, especially during major storms or snow melts.

How You Can Know if Your Sump Pump Is About to Fail

Sump pump issues don’t always come with a big warning sign, but they are one of the leading causes of basement water damage. Here are a few red flags to watch for:

Frequent Cycling On and Off

If your sump pump turns on and off constantly, it may be a sign of a faulty float switch or a pump that’s too small for the job.

Strange Noises

Grinding, rattling, or squealing sounds can indicate mechanical problems. These noises often point to worn-out components or debris caught in the impeller.

Water Pooling Around the Basement

Standing water damage near the sump pit or in other areas of the basement is a clear sign the pump isn’t doing its job.

Visible Rust or Corrosion

Signs of rust can mean the pump is aging or suffering from mineral buildup that could affect its performance.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Sump Pump Running

Routine maintenance is key to ensuring your sump pump works when you need it most. Here are a few ways to avoid a flooded basement by keeping your sump pump in top shape:

• Test It Monthly: Test the pump by pouring water into it. When you do this, the pump should start removing the water, and then shut off. If this doesn’t happen, there could be a problem with it.
• Clean the Pit and Pump: Remove dirt, debris, and gravel from the pit before they clog it. Also, clean the intake screen and check the discharge pipe for blockages.
• Inspect the Power Source: Make sure that the pump is plugged into a GFCI outlet and that the cord is in good condition. Another great investment for extra protection is a battery backup system.
• Schedule Professional Inspections: Once a year, have a licensed technician complete a full system check and catch problems early before they cause serious damage.

Why Choose Swift Restoration and Remodeling

At Swift Restoration and Remodeling, we specialize in fast, reliable water damage restoration for homes in Ogden, UT, including flooded basement cleanup caused by sump pump failures. We start by ensuring the area is safe - shutting off power, using protective gear, and stopping the source of water, whether it's a failed sump pump, burst pipe, or storm runoff.

Our team quickly removes standing water, dries the space with industrial fans and dehumidifiers, and disinfects all surfaces to prevent mold growth. We also clear debris, dispose of damaged materials, and handle repairs to restore your basement to its pre-loss condition. 

Call Us Today for Expert Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration!

Don’t wait until water is pouring into your basement to take action. If your sump pump has failed and caused flooding, call our team at Swift Restoration and Remodeling at (385) 412-8633 for fast, professional water damage cleanup and restoration in Ogden, UT, or fill out this form on our website for a free estimate. We’re here to help you recover quickly and safely!