If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or frequent flooding, a dependable sump pump is a necessity. Unfortunately, like any other machine, even high-quality sump pumps can sometimes let you down. Pompeii’s Plumbing & Heating has some information for you about common sump pump problems.

• Check the Power: Flooding isn’t the only issue to worry about in heavy rains and severe weather. It is very possible to lose power under these conditions, and when the power goes so too does your sump pump’s usefulness. If you live in an area prone to power outages or your home often loses power, consider investing in a sump pump backup battery. This will allow it to keep your basement dry until the power is back on.
• Switch Failure: Your sump pump has one of a few varieties of switches. As water rises the switch registers the change and powers up your sump pump. If the switch gets stuck or is otherwise compromised, though, you’ll wind up with an inactive sump pump and a basement full of water. Don’t let this happen to you. Make sure that your sump pump switch is free of snags and catches to avoid a mishap.
• Size Matters: It’s always tempting to hunt for a bargain, but in the case of a quality sump pump that is inadvisable. Be sure to pay the money for a sump pump that is powerful enough to handle your basement size and the flow of water you may expect in it. It’s a lot cheaper to buy the right sump pump and even a backup pump than it is to repair extensive water damage that could have been avoided with the right initial investment.
• Frozen Pipes: Even if your sump pump does turn on and is operational a frozen discharge pipe will stop it – and the water it’s pumping – dead in its tracks. Make sure that your sump pump is installed correctly by a qualified Cleveland plumbing professional. Poor discharge pipe installation will allow water to collect and potentially freeze, causing water to back up into your basement.

Hopefully you won’t find yourself dealing with any of these issues. However, if any of these common sump pump problems concern you, be sure to address and resolve them before they can damage your home. Call the Cleveland sump pump professionals at Pompeii’s Plumbing & Heating for more information.