This question comes up all the time. The average life expectancy of a sump pump is 7-10 years. However, this depends on many different factors. How often the pump runs, debris in the water, the quality of the pump, and insufficient voltage are a few of the factors that can affect the life of your pump.
The table below lists common troubleshooting symptoms, probable causes, and corrective actions. You will see a few causes that will indicate that it is probably time to replace your pump.
Symptom | Probable Cause(s) | Corrective Action |
Pump won’t start or run | Blown fuse | Replace with a fuse of proper size |
Low line voltage | If the voltage is under the recommended minimum, check the size of the wiring from the main switch on the property. If OK, contact power company. |
Defective motor | Replace pump |
Defective float switch | Replace the float switch. |
Impeller is bound. | If the impeller won’t turn, remove the lower pump body and locate the source of the binding. |
Float is obstructed. | Remove the obstruction. |
Pump starts and stops too often. | Backflow of water from piping | Install or replace the check valve. |
Faulty float switch | Replace the float switch. |
Pump won’t shut off. | Defective float switch | Replace the float switch. |
Restricted discharge (obstacle in piping) | Remove the pump and clean the pump and piping. |
Float obstructed | Remove the obstruction. |
Pump operates but delivers little or no water. | Low line voltage | If the voltage is under the recommended minimum, check the size of the wiring from the main switch on the property. If OK, contact power company. |
Something is caught in impeller. | Clean out the impeller. |
Anti-airlock hole is plugged. | Turn off the pump, clean out the anti-airlock hole, and restart pump |
Pump makes strange noises | Worn or damaged parts | Replace pump |
Pump vibrates excessively when running | Bent or damaged impeller | Replace pump |
Click here to read a blog on sump pump maintenance: Simple Sump Pump Maintenance
Click here to see a video on our YouTube channel: 6 Things Sump Pump Owners NEED to Know
Do you still have questions or concerns about your sump pump? Call us today at RC Worst & Company for any of your sump pump questions.