Three Problems That Can Keep Your Sump Pump From Doing Its Job

Name: Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electric
Address: 325 Hopping Brook Rd, 01746, Holliston, MA
Telephone: 1-800-462-9710
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Heavy rainfall from storms or rapidly melting snows can be a source of flooding in basements or crawl spaces. Standing water in either situation can cause water damage that is not covered under standard homeowner's insurance. A sump pump can automatically eliminate standing water in these situations by pumping out the excess water into septic tanks or other areas suitable for drainage.

Even though it's automatic, a sump pump can have problems that keep it from operating properly. Since it is a mechanical device, three common problems can occur that interrupt service:

Power outages are common problems during violent storms. When these occur, they normally bring heavy amounts of rain into basements. A battery back-up system using an automotive battery can be wired in to keep your sump pump operating, even when you don't have electrical power. Having a battery back-up system can also prevent serious water damage until power is restored.
Poor installation can cause switching problems. A unit that is not level can result in a pump shift, and the unit won't come on as it should. A unit that is not level can cause the float, which operates the automatic switch, to get stuck and never cut the switch to begin pumping.
Air-locks can be responsible for water never draining from the sump basin. Your unit may run, but a vacuum blocks the flow of the water due to the air-lock. Drilling a small hole into the basin drain pipe can create a vent for air to discharge and continue the outward flow. A tiny amount of water may also come through the hole in the pipe but it will eventually drain out as well.

To be sure your sump pump functions properly, make sure your basin is the right size for the float system to operate at peak capacity. An 18-inch diameter with a 22-inch depth is recommended for the best operation of your sump pump.

If you need professional sump-pump installation, contact our plumbing staff at Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. Or, if you have questions about protecting your basement or crawlspace, call us. We'll be happy to give you the answers you're looking for.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about sump pumps and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Solutions Guide.

Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning serves the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. Visit our website to see our special offers to get started today!

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^*Conditions apply, not applicable with any other offer, nor off any trip or diagnostic fee, or previous service. No cash value. Call For details. ^*For WEB-AC-CHECK Offer also: Promotional price limited to 1 system per home, additional units will be billed at full price. Refrigerant not included. Includes standard 1in air filter, other sizes subject to additional charges. Residential systems only. Must reside within our service area. *For WEB-A-50 Offer also: Not valid on preventative maintenance nor prior purchases. *For WEB-A-75 Offer also: Call or see specials page for more information. *For WEB-H-3250 Offer also: Subject to rebate eligibility and qualifying system choice. The $189 A/C System check examines and assesses the mechanical parts of the air conditioning system. Refrigerant not included. Promotional price applicable to 1 unit per household, additional units will charged at standard rate. Limited to residential homes within our service area. *$79 per drain. The $79 drain evaluation offer does not include any modifications, such as the installation of cleanouts or access points, required to perform the inspection on older homes with limited access to existing plumbing infrastructure. Conditions apply, not compatible with any other offer or discount.
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