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Sump pumps play a crucial role in keeping your basement or crawl space dry by pumping excess water from the sump pit and diverting it away from your home. By doing so, they help prevent flooding and protect your foundation from potential damage. However, it can be frustrating when your sump pump runs but doesn’t drain. At Black-Haak, we want to help you understand why this issue occurs and how professional repairs can resolve it.
How Sump Pumps Work
Understanding how sump pumps function can help explain why one might run but not drain properly. When a plumber installed your sump pump, they began by digging a sump pit at the lowest point of your basement or crawl space. This pit serves as a collection point for excess water. The pit’s depth is crucial. Plumbers determine it by assessing factors such as the water table level, soil conditions, and the amount of runoff your home experiences. Once the water in the pit reaches a certain level, the sump pump activates, pushing the collected water through a discharge pipe and safely away from your home.
Types of Sump Pumps
There are two main types of sump pumps. They are installed and operate slightly differently.
Submersible Sump Pumps
Plumbers install submersible sump pumps inside the sump pit. These models are waterproof and feature a motor, impeller, and diffuser that pump water from the bottom of the pit and discharge it through the outlet valve. Submersible pumps are ideal for homes with limited space because the entire unit is hidden in the pit, making it less obtrusive and quieter during operation. They are also more powerful, making them a better choice for areas prone to heavy flooding.
Pedestal Sump Pumps
Pedestal sump pumps sit above the sump pit and feature a hose that extends into the pit. They operate using a float and activation switch. The pump draws water from the sump pit and discharges it through a connected pipe outside your home. Pedestal pumps are easier to access for repairs and maintenance because they aren’t submerged. They are a great option for smaller pits or homes with lower water tables that don’t require as much power. Additionally, they tend to be more affordable upfront compared to submersible models.
Common Causes of Running Sump Pumps That Will Not Drain
If your sump pump does not drain appropriately, your basement can become flooded. Long-term moisture issues can result in foundation damage and mold issues. It is essential to find the cause of your draining issues and seek repairs immediately to avoid damage to your home.
Clogged Discharge Line
The discharge line moves water from the sump pit to a safe place outside your home. It can become clogged with mud, debris, frozen water, or insect nests. The pump will continue running with a clogged discharge line but will not pump water.
A proactive step you can take is insulating the line to prevent freezing in the winter. On the other hand, if you have a stubborn clog due to debris, a plumber can disconnect the discharge line to clear the blockage. They will also assess its condition and replace it if necessary.
Malfunctioning Check Valve
Plumbers install a check valve on the discharge pipe to prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit after it’s been pumped out. If the check valve is malfunctioning or installed incorrectly, water can return to the pit, causing the pump to run continuously without effectively draining the water.
A plumber can inspect and test the check valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly. If it’s faulty, replacing it is a relatively inexpensive repair that will get your sump pump back to working as it should.
Damaged Impeller
The impeller is a rotating part inside the pump that helps move water from the sump pit to the discharge line. Over time, impellers can experience wear and tear, reducing their effectiveness. They can also become jammed, damaged, or clogged with debris.
Plumbers will disassemble the impeller housing to check for clogs. Cleaning the impeller often solves the issue. However, if the blades are cracked, bent, or broken, this component will need to be replaced.
Float Switch Malfunction
Float switches are essential components that activate the pump when water levels reach a predetermined height. Over time, however, a float switch can become stuck in the “on” position due to age. This causes the pump to run continuously. You may notice that the sump pump runs even when the water level in the pit is low.
Plumbers will inspect the float switch for signs of damage. In most cases, they will recommend replacing it, as this is a relatively low-cost solution that can restore your sump pump’s functionality.
An Air Lock in the Discharge Line
Sometimes, air can become trapped inside the discharge line, creating a blockage known as an airlock. This issue typically arises in poorly designed discharge lines.
To resolve this problem, a plumber will modify the discharge line to include a vent. This modification allows air to escape, preventing future airlocks and ensuring water can flow freely.
Overworked Sump Pump
A correctly sized sump pump prevents overworking. If your sump pump is undersized, it will likely struggle to keep up with draining the pit. This issue is common during periods of heavy rainfall.
It is important to check the sump pump’s capacity to ensure it is appropriate for the pit size. You may need to upgrade to a pump with a higher capacity. An alternative is to install a backup sump pump to take the pressure off your primary unit during extreme conditions.
Electrical Problems
A malfunctioning power supply or low voltage can cause the sump pump to run without removing water from the pit. Without enough power, the sump pump may not have the force it requires for expelling water through the discharge line.
Plumbers use special tools, like multimeters, to check the pump’s electrical system for issues. If the issue is not with the pump, an electrician may need to inspect the electrical circuit it is on for signs of problems.
How to Protect Your Sump Pump
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your sump pump in optimal condition. During a visit, a professional will remove debris and sediment from the sump pit and the pump, which prevents clogs. They also will test the pump to ensure it activates properly when water levels rise. Additionally, they can address minor problems before they escalate, which helps avoid the need for expensive repairs.
Contact your Local Professionals
At Black-Haak, we have served the residents of Greenville, WI and the surrounding areas since 1956. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. In addition, we can help with all your plumbing needs, including sump pump maintenance and repair. As your one-stop home care provider, we also offer electrical services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our talented team members.
