When it comes to protecting your home from floods, the sump pump is an indispensable tool. It’s designed to collect water and pump it away when it reaches certain levels, keeping your basement or crawl space from becoming a swampy mess after a torrential rainstorm or burst pipe. However, if your sump pump isn’t working as it should, it can quickly become a flooding problem that requires costly repairs or even total replacement. Fortunately, you can avoid the most common sump pump repair issues by getting regular maintenance services and noticing any signs of trouble as soon as you can.
The cost of a new sump pump depends on the model you choose and your home’s plumbing needs. For example, you might pay more to have a battery backup installed if you want your pump to continue working in the event of a power outage. On average, though, the price of a basic sump pump ranges from $300 to $500.
Sump pumps typically sit in a basin and rely on a series of buried pipes to collect the water from around the foundation. Once the water reaches a specific level, the pump turns on and removes the water from the basin. If you notice your pump isn’t working as it should, you may have an electrical issue, a malfunctioning float switch or a clogged discharge pipe that’s not removing water as quickly as it should.
Unusual sounds such as grinding, rattling or squealing can indicate that your pump is in need of repairs or replacement. In addition to indicating a mechanical problem, these noises can indicate that the pump is too small for the volume of water it’s pumping out.
If you’re noticing these issues, or if your sump pump is more than five years old and has been sitting idle for a long time, you should consider hiring a professional to inspect your sump system and determine whether it’s time to get a new one. Sitting sump pumps can drastically shorten their lifespans and are more likely to break down than actively used ones.
You should also keep in mind that the installation costs of a new pump can vary by plumber or contractor, and can depend on how complicated your home’s plumbing is. You might also be able to save money by choosing a model that’s compatible with your existing plumbing.
Having an expert install your sump pump can help you minimize miscommunication and ensure the job is done correctly, which can save you both time and money. If you’re considering hiring a plumber to install a new sump pump, ask these questions before you schedule service: