One of the most common sump pump problems is with the float switches. This article will talk a bit about float switches, the different kinds of them other common sump pump problems, and some tips or solutions to try.

The float switch is set up so that when water reaches a certain level, the sump pump turns on, and when the water goes back down, the pump shuts off.

There are four types of float switches for sump pumps. The diaphragm switch, vertical action float, tethered float and an electric float switch. The best one out of the four is the vertical action float. This type of float will usually cost less to buy, have a better quality, and hold a longer warranty.

Knowing that one of the most common sump pump problems could be with the float switch, when you purchase a sump pump, you will want to find one that has a float switch that you will be able to replace yourself. This will save you money and time, if a problem occurs in the future, by being able to fix it yourself.

If you choose to go with an electric switch, which cost more, but are great to use, keep in mind that some are made with mercury. If your sump pump is going to be anywhere near water that is also used for drinking water, you will want to buy a steel electric float switch. The steel ones do not have any mercury in them.

A lot of sump pump problems can be fixed by the homeowner without paying someone else to do it. I have listed some common sump pump problems and some tips and/or solutions about them. Trying these tips and solutions can save the homeowner a lot of time, money, and other problems that could arise if the sump pump isn’t maintained regularly. Before doing any type of maintenance to a sump pump, be sure to unplug any electrical cords going to any part of the sump pump.

1). Debris in the sump pit- Always check and make sure that the sump pit is free from debris.

2). “check” valve-Sometimes, the check valve can be improperly installed. The check valves are set up so that when the sump pump shuts off, no water will go back into the sump pump. The check valve’s arrow should not be pointing toward the sump pump.

3). Weep hole- Some pumps will have a weep hole, usually between the sump pump and the check valve. You can clean this weep hole out with a toothpick or other tiny object. Be careful not to break anything into the weep hole.

4). Impeller- Should be a filter, but sometimes things get into it and clog it up. If your sump pump has stopped running, suddenly, or has been making a whining noise, this could be the problem. The impeller should be connected to the sump pump with bolts. This is something that the homeowner can take care of themselves. Unplug the sump pump and unbolt the impeller. Be careful not to drop it or hit it. Once you have it off the pump, you should be able to clean anything out of it. When you put it back together, it is recommended to use new gasket and sealant when putting the new casing onto it. When you put it back together, you can test the pump to see if this solves the problem. Fill the sump pump with water until it turns on and see if it is working properly. If it doesn’t turn on, it may be an electrical problem and you should contact a professional for this. They will be able to tell you if it is that or if you need a new one. It is recommended to just ask them to inspect it first and save some money on the service call. If they say that it can be fixed, ask for a quote and measure the quote to replacing it with a new one. Whichever costs you less will be a better choice. If you get a new one, you will have a whole new warranty with it, too.

5). Sump pump odor- The odor is caused from the sump pump trap. The trap will have water that stay s there, but when it hasn’t had any water for a while, an odor starts to form. This is from a gas that is created from sewage water. You can check on this and keep a little bit of water in it, and you can eliminate the odor by using a bleach-water mixture to cleanse the basin. One part bleach to 5 parts water is good. You can fill the basin until the sump pump turns on, too, and this will help with eliminating the odor better.

6). Power outage- Purchasing a generator is a great idea when you purchase a sump pump. This way, if you lose power while you need your sump pump, you will have a back up source of power for the sump pump. Sometimes, it is better to invest more money now then to have to spend more later on for flooding damages.

Whenever you are in doubt with common sump pump problems, call an expert.