Backup sump pump not kicking in
A backup sump pump may not kick in because its battery is discharged, the float cannot move, the pump is clogged, or the system is not…
Troubleshooting
Practical help choosing, installing and troubleshooting sump pumps before the next storm.
Backup Systems
Troubleshooting
Check valve leaking back into the pit
A small amount of water may flow back into the sump pit when the pump stops, but a failed or poorly installed check valve can send most of…
Float switch stuck on the pit wall
A sump pump float switch stuck on the pit wall can leave the pump running continuously or prevent it from starting. Use these safe checks…
Pump Intake Sitting on Debris at the Pit Bottom
A sump pump intake should not be buried in sediment, gravel, or other debris. Shut off power, remove the pump safely, clean the pit and…
Sump Pit Filling Faster Than the Pump Can Empty
If the sump pit rises faster than the pump can lower it, the cause is usually excessive water inflow, restricted discharge, a clogged…
Sump pit rust flakes clogging the intake
Rust flakes can restrict a sump pump intake and cause slow pumping, cycling, or overheating. Here is how to clear the blockage, find the…
Sump pump check valve rattling
A rattling sump pump check valve is usually caused by the valve flap closing rapidly, a loose discharge pipe, debris, or an incorrectly…
Sump pump humming but not pumping
If your sump pump hums but does not pump water, shut off power before inspecting it. The most common causes are debris around the impeller,…
Sump Pump Leaking Around the Discharge Pipe
A sump pump leak around the discharge pipe usually comes from a loose connection, failed seal, cracked fitting, or water backing up through…
Sump pump not turning on
If your sump pump is not turning on, check the power supply, float switch, intake, discharge line, and water level in that order. These…
Sump pump running constantly: causes and fixes
If your sump pump will not shut off, check the float, discharge line, check valve, basin water level, and pump sizing before replacing the…
Sump Pump Short Cycling: Causes and Fixes
A sump pump that starts and stops every few seconds or minutes may have a float, discharge, check-valve, basin, or pump-sizing problem. Use…
Sump Pump Tripping a GFCI: Causes and Safe Fixes
If your sump pump keeps tripping the GFCI, do not bypass the protection or repeatedly reset it. Disconnect power safely, check for water…
