If you’re asking, “Why is my sump pump not running?”, you’re probably noticing a problem. It’s stressful, especially if water starts building up in the pit and it’s not being cleared.
Sump pump failures are more common than most homeowners realize. The American Society of Home Inspectors reports that over 60% of U.S. homes experience basement moisture problems, often linked to drainage or pump system failures. In Chandler, drainage systems can also be affected by sudden stormwater runoff during monsoon season. Stormwater surges frequently overload drainage systems, increasing the need for sump pumps.
How a Sump Pump Is Supposed to Work
A sump pump is designed to remove water that collects in the pit before it floods. When water rises, a float switch turns on the pump, which pushes water through a discharge pipe away from your foundation. When it’s working properly, it should:
- Turn on automatically when water reaches a certain level.
- Pump water out quickly.
- Shut off once the water level drops.
If the pump doesn’t activate when water in the pit hits the right level, something’s either failed or become disconnected.
Why Is My Sump Pump Not Running?
Sometimes, the reason your sump pump isn’t running is simple. Others require professional repair. Here are a few things you can check.
Power Supply Problems
The most common reason a sump pump stops working is a loss of power. So, make sure:
- The sump pump is plugged in
- The outlet is working properly
- A circuit breaker hasn’t tripped
Pro Tip: Electrical storms are common and can disrupt your power. You might want to consider installing a battery backup to make sure your pump keeps running in case the electricity goes out.
Stuck or Damaged Float Switch
Sometimes, the answer to “Why does my sump pump stop running?” is that the float switch is stuck. Check to see if there is debris in the pit, or the float arm is bent, preventing it from working or rubbing up against the side of the pipe. If the float cannot move freely, the pump will not activate properly.
Clogged or Blocked Discharge Line
The discharge pipe carries water away from your home, and when it’s blocked, your sump pump may shut down. In Chandler, monsoon sediment can also clog discharge lines, restricting water flow and causing failures.
Pump Motor Failure
Most sump pumps will last between seven and 10 years, but the motor can wear out over time. If you hear a humming noise, but it’s not pumping water, the motor is likely failing.
Overloaded Drainage System
During intense storms, drainage systems may receive more water than they can handle and overload the system. When groundwater infiltration increases rapidly, pumps may cycle continuously or shut down due to overheating.
Why Does My Sump Pump Stop Running Intermittently?
You may notice your sump pump works sometimes, but stops. If it’s draining the water, that’s not an issue but if it’s shutting down when it still should be working, you’ll want to call for a plumber to diagnose the problem. Intermittent operation is often an early sign that the pump is starting to break down.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If your sump pump isn’t working and you’ve tried the simple fixes, you need to call in a professional to avoid flooding issues. You may need a new pump or a clog cleared. In severe cases, it may be related to bigger infrastructure problems, like a collapsed pipe or sewer line problem.
The highly trained technicians at George Brazil Plumbing & Electrical can diagnose the problem, inspect your drain lines, and make sure nothing bigger is going on. Then, they can let you know whether you need to repair or replace the pump, with upfront pricing before work begins.
You also benefit from regular maintenance. During a maintenance visit, a plumber will clean the intake screen, check the discharge line for Arizona’s silt buildup, and ensure the check valve is preventing water from flowing back into the pit.
George Brazil has served Phoenix-area homeowners for more than 35 years, with technicians available to inspect drainage systems, identify the root cause of pump failures, and get your system back up and running. We have fully stocked trucks, so we can repair most problems on the first visit. We also provide 24/7 emergency response if you need it.
If your sump pump is not running or your drainage system is showing signs of trouble, contact George Brazil for same-day service in Chandler and across the Valley.