
Imagine this: a heavy rainstorm is pouring down outside. You’re relaxing inside when you suddenly notice your sump pump isn’t running. The water in your sump pit is rising, and your basement is at risk of flooding. What should you do if your sump pump fails? This guide gives you clear steps to handle this stressful situation.
Why Sump Pumps Fail
Before addressing what to do if a sump pump fails, let’s understand common reasons for these failures. This knowledge helps prevent future issues and protects your home.
Power Outages
A sump pump requires electricity to operate, which can be problematic during heavy rain or storms when power outages occur, leaving the pump inoperative. This is especially concerning as storms are precisely when you need the pump the most.
One solution is to obtain a battery backup for your sump pump. A battery backup would run the pump when the power is out. You may also want to consider a water-powered backup system as well if a battery backup system is out of the question; or install a generator to keep everything running during long power outages.
Poor or incorrect installation of your sump pump can mean it doesn’t do anything, leaving your basement at the mercy of rain and flooding. Therefore, it is very important to check whether the pump is propelling the water out of the sump basin every now and then.
Clogged or Frozen Discharge Lines
Debris or ice in the discharge lines can block water from flowing out. This makes your pump work harder, which can shorten its lifespan and increase the chances of failure.
It’s important to regularly check your discharge lines. If the water isn’t draining at least 20 feet away from your home, consider adding an extension. To prevent problems in colder months, check the lines regularly and add insulation to any exposed pipes.
Switch Problems
A stuck switch, like a float switch, can stop your pump from starting or cause it to run nonstop. This wastes energy and can damage the motor.
Make sure to check your float switch regularly. It should move freely and not be stuck, as a stuck switch can stop your sump pump from working during heavy rain.
Age and Wear
Like any appliance, sump pumps wear out over time. Frequent use reduces their lifespan.
Regular maintenance can extend a pump’s life, but be prepared to replace it around the 10-year mark. For pumps that are used heavily, failure often occurs within three to five years old begins to grow, it can spread quickly, causing structural damage to your home and posing significant health risks.
What To Do If Your Sump Pump Fails: A Step-by-Step Guide

You’ve noticed your sump pump has stopped working. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tackle the problem effectively.
1. Safety First
Turn off the power to the basement at the breaker box. Water and electricity don’t mix, so prioritize safety before taking any other action.
2. Assess the Damage
Check how much water has accumulated. This will help you decide if you can handle the cleanup yourself or if you need professional help.
3. Remove Valuables
Move electronics, furniture, and other valuables to a dry area. Protect items that could be damaged by water. Be careful, as water levels may rise quickly.
4. Remove Water Manually
Depending on the severity of the flooding, use the following strategies:
- Small Accumulation: Use a mop, bucket, and towels to soak up water.
- Moderate Water Levels: A wet/dry vacuum can quickly remove water.
- Severe Flooding: Use trash-water pumps or call professionals for water removal.
5. Dry Out the Area
After you’ve removed any standing water, dry out the whole area to ensure that no mold will grow. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows as much as possible to circulate air and speed the drying process. Basement sump pits typically do not have mold growth because they drain water effectively, however, if the sump pump fails to operate for an extended period, mold can begin to develop in other areas of the basement.
Troubleshooting includes checking for power loss, clogged intake screens or discharge pipes, and jammed float switches. Ensure the sump pump is level and not obstructed by debris.
7. Repair or Replace
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, contact a professional. Certified mold inspectors and water restoration technicians at Safer Home Services LLC can diagnose the problem and determine whether repair or sump pump Installation in Cherry Hill, NJ, is necessary. Regular inspections of your sump pit and discharge lines are essential to avoid recurring issues.
8. Prevent Future Failures
- Test your pump regularly to make sure it works properly.
- Keep the discharge lines clear of debris and ice.
- Install a backup power source to keep the pump running during power outages.
- Check the weep hole and other drainage parts for clogs or blockages.
Protecting Your Basement

A failed sump pump can cause major water damage. Regular maintenance and proactive solutions, like installing a backup system, are key to protecting your home. If your sump pump is old or showing signs of failure, consider a sump pump replacement in Cherry Hill to keep your basement dry during heavy rainstorms.
Contact Safer Home Services LLC for Sump Pump Solutions
A sump pump failure can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle it on your own. Safer Home Services LLC provides expert sump pump repair and replacement services to fit your needs. Our certified teams work regularly in your area. We understand local water issues and know how harmful mold and water damage can be if not properly handled. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our services. Don’t wait for the next storm to find out your pump isn’t working – call us now to protect your home and peace of mind!