Sump Pump Not Working? Causes, Fixes and What to Do

A sump pump is the quiet guard of many Laurel-area basements. You don't think about it until a storm hits and the pit starts to overflow. If yours has already failed and water is on the floor, Laurel Dry Pros offers flooded basement cleanup in Laurel. If it's acting up but you're still dry, this guide will help you find the problem.

This is general information. For electrical work or pump replacement, use a licensed plumber or electrician.

How does a sump pump work?

The pump sits in a pit, called a sump basin, at the low point of the basement. Drain tile or a French drain around the foundation carries ground water into the pit. As the water rises, it lifts a float. The float switches the pump on, and the pump pushes water up a discharge pipe and out to the yard. A check valve on that pipe keeps the water from flowing back down when the pump stops.

Signs your sump pump is failing

• It doesn't turn on when the pit fills
• It runs nonstop, even in dry weather
• It turns on and off rapidly, called short cycling
• Loud grinding, rattling or humming with no water moving
• Visible rust or a burning smell
• Water standing in the pit that doesn't go down
• It's more than 7 to 10 years old

Sump pump not working? Common causes and fixes

Always unplug the pump before you reach into the pit.

What to do if the sump pump fails during a storm

1. Check the power first. Most failures during storms are power-related.
2. Use a backup. If you have a battery backup or water-powered backup, make sure it's running.
3. Bail or pump. A portable utility pump with a garden hose can move water out of the pit.
4. Protect the basement. Move items off the floor and lift furniture.
5. Stop adding water. Avoid running the washer or dishwasher if your laundry drains to the pit.
6. Call for help if water is reaching the floor. Our guide to what to do when your basement floods covers the next steps.

Sump pump backup options

• Battery backup pump: a second pump in the pit that runs on a marine battery when the power fails.
• Water-powered backup: uses city water pressure to pump water out. No battery needed, but it uses water and needs proper plumbing.
• Generator: keeps the main pump running during outages.
• High-water alarm: beeps or sends a phone alert when the pit is too full.

How to test your sump pump

Do this at least twice a year, before spring rains and before winter:

1. Pour water in. Slowly fill the pit with a bucket of water until the float rises.
2. Watch it run. The pump should turn on, empty the pit and shut off.
3. Check outside. Make sure water flows out the discharge pipe and away from the house.
4. Listen. Grinding or rattling means it's time for service.
5. Test the backup the same way, with the main pump unplugged.

Is sump pump failure covered by insurance?

Not under a standard Maryland homeowners policy. The Maryland Insurance Administration explains that water overflowing a sump pump is covered only if you purchased a water/sewer backup endorsement. The MIA also notes there's usually a separate deductible for these claims, and insurers often offer different coverage limits. If you have a finished basement, check that you have this coverage and that the limit is high enough. Our Maryland water damage insurance guide explains more.

After a sump failure: preventing mold

Once a basement gets wet, the EPA says drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours usually prevents mold. Ground water from a sump pit can carry dirt and bacteria, so carpet pad and wet drywall usually need to come out. See how long it takes mold to grow for the timeline.

Local note: Finished basements in Burtonsville, Maple Lawn and Fulton and Odenton and Fort Meade often depend on a sump pump. Newer subdivisions in Bowie see the same thing.

If the pump runs fine but water still gets in, read about basement leaks after heavy rain.

Related reading: Get ready for big storms with our guide to preparing for a flood in Laurel, and learn what a lingering musty smell in the basement can mean after a wet spell.

When should you call a water damage professional?

Call a pro when water from a failed sump pump has reached carpet, drywall or stored items, when it covers more than a small patch of concrete, or when you can't get the water level down. The sooner drying starts, the less you'll need to tear out.

Sump pump failed in Laurel? Call (301) 368-0221 to reach Laurel Dry Pros for pump-out and basement drying.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

1. Maryland Insurance Administration: Flood damage vs. water damage (sump pump overflow)
2. Maryland Insurance Administration: Understanding your homeowners coverage
3. Maryland Insurance Administration: An insurance preparedness guide for natural disasters
4. U.S. EPA: Mold Cleanup in Your Home