3 Reasons to Hire a Waterproofer (and Not a Plumber) for Sump Pump Repair

Sump pump not working? An experienced waterproofing contractor knows how to fix sump pump issues so you can avoid flooding and damage in your basement or crawl space.

A sump pump and waterproofing contractor's job is to protect your property from flooding and water buildup.

Sump pumps remove excess water in basements or crawl spaces and prevent flooding after storms or heavy rainfall. So if you discover your sump pump not working, getting it up and running quickly is critical to avoid potential flooding and damage.

The reasons a sump pump stops working vary, depending on the age of the pump, the type of pump, and where it’s located, such as in a basement or crawl space. The issue could be as minor as a tripped breaker or as major as a burned-out motor.

If your sump pump has stopped working, DIY troubleshooting or hiring a professional repair technician could resolve the problem relatively easily.

When is it time to reach out to a professional?

If your sump pump isn’t running properly, it may sound noisy, cycle on and off, or stop working completely. There are several reasons why sump pumps fail. The most common sump pump problems include clogs, power failure, an overwhelmed pump, a stuck sensor, a wrong-size pump, or a pump at the end of its lifespan.

If the sump pump doesn’t turn on, ensure that the unit is plugged in and has power. Once you’ve ruled out power issues, you may check for objects that may have jammed the switch or clogs in the discharge line. Some sump pump issues should be looked at by a sump pump repair professional. This includes broken or worn-out impeller blades, a motor that’s burned out, or installation problems.

If you’ve tried DIY troubleshooting and your pump isn’t working properly, or you don’t have time to fix it yourself, you’ll need to hire a professional for sump pump repair. Proper care, repair, and maintenance are crucial to keeping a sump pump working properly, and choosing the right contractor for the job is equally important.

Why contact a waterproofer for sump pump repair?

The job of a sump pump is to protect your property from flooding and water buildup. While some plumbers fix sump pumps, most aren’t experts in troubleshooting and repairing them. Plumbers fix plumbing leaks in basements or crawl spaces, not flooding caused by a failed sump pump or water intrusion. When your sump pump fails, your best bet is to contact a contractor experienced in waterproofing basements or crawl spaces. Waterproofing contractors frequently deal with sump pump problems and will know exactly what to do to get your pump back in working condition.

When you have a sump pump problem, there are three primary reasons to reach out to a local waterproofer instead of a plumber.

1. They can fix issues extending beyond a sump pump problem

   Many plumbers solve only simple sump pump problems. But a sump pump is often part of a system that keeps the basement or crawl space dry. So if the water problem in your basement or crawl space extends beyond your sump pump, a plumber likely won't be able to help. Floods aren’t the only reason why you might have a wet basement or crawl space. Damp air, musty smells, condensation, mold growth, or rot can be signs of a groundwater problem. And when your sump pump isn’t working like it should or stops, you’re at a higher risk for water intrusion and moisture problems. A waterproofing professional can thoroughly inspect the foundation and areas around the home to pinpoint all potential issues with your drainage and waterproofing system.

2. They can perform regular maintenance to avoid major issues

   Maintenance of your sump pump is crucial to ensure maximum safety and efficiency, as with any other system or appliance in your home. The pump should be cleaned periodically, and the discharge pipe should be checked for clogs. Most local waterproofing companies have sump pump technicians who can perform regular maintenance and recommend steps to maintain your pump to help avoid major issues.

3. If your sump pump can’t be repaired, they can recommend and install a replacement

   Sump pumps can burn out for various reasons, including years of regular use. If and when this happens, a waterproofing contractor can install a new unit. Waterproofers are knowledgeable about many different types of sump pumps and how they interact with the rest of your waterproofing system. They can recommend the best sump pump system for your situation if it's time for a new pump. This can include installing a battery-powered backup pump to protect your basement or crawl space from flooding during a power outage. The average cost of sump pump installation depends on the size and setup of the system. But many waterproofer companies, including those in the Basement Systems network, offer free estimates on sump pump replacements and installations.

Whether you have a high water table and rely on your sump pump regularly or simply have one installed for peace of mind, you want to keep it in good working condition. If your home has a sump pump, it’s important to know where it is, how it works, the steps to maintain it, and who to call to fix it when there’s a problem. Being proactive can help prevent flooding in your basement or crawl space.

If your sump pump isn’t working or it’s time for a replacement, don’t wait to request a free sump pump evaluation from your local Basement Systems waterproofing contractor.

Updated: October 4, 2022