Homeowners go to great lengths to prevent indoor flooding. If your residential space is located in an area with heavy rainfall, you’ll need a sump pump in working condition. This device will guide water from the foundation of your home out to the main drainage spot, which can save you from the headache of severe water damage.
Whether you’ve been in your home for years or are moving to a new location, checking your property’s sump pump efficiency is the key to keeping your basement free of excess moisture. Replacing an outdated sump pump is a simple process, but professional help is recommended for desirable results.
When to Consider a Sump Pump Replacement
Sump pumps can last up to 10 years depending on how often the system runs. Factors such as water volume, motor strength and the number of cycles necessary for displacement will influence the lifespan of your investment. The best way to determine whether a sump pump replacement is in order is to observe the system’s performance for consistency.
Your sump pump device may present numerous warning signs that it’s struggling to redirect water, including:
- Excess noise: Most sump pump installations run quietly for homeowner satisfaction. If you hear rattling, loud vibrations or enough noise that you know when the motor is running even when you’re in other rooms, a system upgrade should be a priority.
- Frequent clogs: Sump pumps can occasionally clog due to gravel, mud and debris. To stay proactive and ensure maximum performance, allow a professional to clean your sump pump and water basin on a routine basis. When your system struggles to guide water right after a cleaning, there’s a good chance the sump pump motor, discharge line or float switch has seen better days.
- Inconsistent running: Sump pumps are designed to kick on only when water is filling the basin. One of the clearest signs that you require a sump pump replacement is the device running constantly or randomly. Faulty float switches, a lack of horsepower or a sump pump that is too small for your home’s basin could be the problem.
How to Replace a Sump Pump
Replacing a sump pump is relatively simple, but you’ll want to pay close attention to pump type and system outputs. Submersible sump pumps are concealed below the basement floor, while pedestal styles feature a motor on a stick that extends from the basement floor. Both configurations install in a similar fashion, but the two fall into different price ranges, satisfying various budgets.
The process for swapping out your old sump pump includes the following steps:
- Disconnect the old sump pump from the wall outlet.
- Remove the pump from the drainage line.
- Cut and attach a new PVC pipe from the upgraded pump to the drainage line.
- Place the new sump pump in the basin.
- Adjust the float switch appropriately.
- Secure all connections with adapters as needed.
- Test the installation by pouring water into the pit.
If you’re intimidated by the sump pump selection or installation process, be sure to contact a local professional for assistance.
24/7 Emergency Water Restoration Services in Chicago
ServiceMaster of Lincoln Park is your go-to source for emergency water restoration services across Illinois. We pride ourselves on quick response times, offering customers in our service area 24/7 help when they need it most. All of our technicians are trained for cleanup tasks, water extractions and sewage sanitation efforts to minimize damage in homes and offices.
If you’re experiencing a flooding emergency, contact us or call us today at (773) 346-6767.
