Do Sump Pumps Need To Be Replaced Often?

A sump pump is crucial in many homes, protecting against basement flooding by efficiently pumping out excess water. Homeowners who have experienced water damage understand the importance of a reliable sump pump. However, a common question arises: Do sump pumps need to be replaced often? In this blog post, we'll explore the factors that influence the lifespan of sump pumps and offer insights into when replacement might be necessary.

What is a sump pump?

Let's start with the basics. The primary function of a sump pump is to channel water away from the basement, direct it into a drain, and safely expel it outside the home. By doing so, sump pumps effectively prevent potential basement floods.

How does water get into your basement?

Discovering water in your basement is a homeowner's nightmare, and understanding the causes is just the beginning of resolving the issue.

Improper grading, dysfunctional downspouts, or clogged gutters can lead to water pooling next to the home's foundation. Additionally, cracks in the foundation can allow water to seep in after rainfall or watering. Poor soil compaction around the foundation worsens the issue, enabling water to creep into the foundation.

How does a sump pump work?

So, how does a sump pump operate? Your sump pump sits in a pit at the lowest point of your home, usually inside the concrete in your basement or the dirt floor if you have a crawlspace. When water levels start getting too close for comfort, a float switch kicks into action, prompting the pump to collect and expel water safely away from your home using a discharge line. This is connected to your pump and leads outside the home, ending ideally in a grassy spot in your yard that slopes away from your home.

How do I know if my sump pump needs replacing?

The longevity of your sump pump hinges on various factors that come together like pieces of a puzzle. First and foremost, the quality of your pump matters – those high-quality, premium pumps are like the superheroes of the sump pump world. They not only last longer but can weather all kinds of storms and unpredictable weather.

Living in an area with a high water table? Well, that adds another layer to the story. The more your sump pump has to kick into action, the more it might be feeling the wear and tear. It's like the difference between a casual stroll and a marathon for your pump.

And then there's maintenance - Neglecting the care routine, which includes giving the pump a good clean from silt and sediment, checking for potential debris snags in the float switch, and testing the switch itself, can set the stage for pump failure.

One thing you can look for is early signs of sump pump failure. It's better to catch these signs earlier to prevent the pump from failing and the pit from flooding when it doesn't kick out the water.  

Common sump pump problems

Early signs of sump pump failure may include:    

• Oil on the water's surface in the pit
• A loose float switch
• Slow discharge from the pump
• Noisier pump
• Clogged air vent

How often should you replace your sump pump?

Now, the million-dollar question: How often should you replace your sump pump? Typically, these pumps boast an average lifespan of 5-7 years. Proactive homeowners may opt for replacement around the 5-year mark, while others play the waiting game until signs of wear and tear surface. Some pumps bid adieu after just 3 years, while others, well into their golden years at 12, continue chugging along (though we gently remind the homeowner they're on borrowed time).

Midwest offers a variety of sump pumps that have been tested through harsh conditions, proving you can count on them to protect your home.

Our sump pumps include multiple features that most big box store sump pumps lack.

• WaterWatch Alarm: If water in your pump rises past the point where the pump should have turned on, the alarm will sound.
• Sump Liner: Our liner is just the right size to ensure your sump pump works properly by only turning on when needed.
• Airtight Sump Lid: This airtight lid keeps odors away by preventing humidity and debris from getting in.
• CleanPump Stands: We include stands for our pumps to sit on to keep naturally occurring silt and sediment to settle at the bottom and be kept away from your pump.
• IceGuard Discharge Line: As many sump pumps are prone to freezing during the cold months, our IceGuard discharge line protects against this problem. This adapter is located outside where the discharge line exits the home. Even if the pipe underground freezes, water can still be pumped out without worrying about it backing up into your basement.

If you are worried about a flooding basement or have questions concerning your current sump pump. Have one of our System Design Specialists out to guide you through a free consultation about proper sump pumps.