Diagnosing a Sump Pump Failure: What Homeowners Need to Know

If your sump pump is not working, you might feel anxious or frustrated, especially during heavy rain or snowmelt. The thought of snow melt in Barrie, Muskoka, or York Region climates seeping into your basement or crawl space can be stressful, putting your home and belongings at risk.

Perhaps it’s running constantly, leaking, making strange noises, overflowing, or clogged. 

Understanding how to diagnose and address sump pump failures can help you regain control and protect your property.

1. Check the Power Source of the Sump Pump

Problem: The sump pump isn’t receiving power. 

Solution:

• Ensure the pump is plugged into a functioning outlet. 
• Check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. 
• If using a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet, reset it.

2. Inspect the Sump Pump Float Switch

Problem: The float switch may be stuck or damaged. 

Solution: 

• Unplug the sump pump from its main power source as well as any backups. 
• Ensure the float moves freely and isn’t obstructed by debris or the basin wall. 
• Manually lift the float with an electrically non-conductive object to see if the pump activates. 

3. Test the Sump Pump Motor 

Problem: The motor is not operating. 

Solution: 

• Unplug pump from float switch. Plug just pump into receptacle 
• Listen for unusual noises or vibrations, which could indicate a jam or a motor issue. 

4. Examine the Discharge Pipe of the Sump Pump 

Problem: The discharge pipe is clogged or frozen. 

Solution: 

• Check the pipe for blockages or ice buildup, especially at the outlet. 
• Thaw with blow dryer 
• Clear any obstructions to restore proper flow. 

5. Look for Debris in the Basin 

Problem: Debris may be jamming the pump or impeller. 

Solution: Clean out sump with shop vac

When to Call a Professional

If your sump pump doesn’t activate despite troubleshooting, if the motor runs but doesn’t pump water, or if flooding persists, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. There are electrical shock risks due to the sump pump’s proximity to water.

Remember, it’s best to have your sump pump checked annually to ensure your sump pump is working when you need it to manage flooding.

Harris Plumbing is here for you!

When you need reliable help, Harris Plumbing is here for you. With over 50 years of experience, Harris Plumbing is a family-owned business proudly serving Barrie, Simcoe County, Muskoka, and York Regions.

They specialize in all things plumbing, including professional sump pump repairs, professional sump pump installations, regular maintenance inspections, sump pump testing, and replacements of worn sump pump parts to keep your home safe and dry.

When replacing parts of or the entire sump pump, our professionals can recommend quality parts and pumps that meet the requirements of your sump pump and home. We back our work with a 1-year guarantee on top of whatever warranties might be offered by the manufacturer.

Don’t wait for water damage—reach out to Harris Plumbing for trusted service and peace of mind!