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How to Tell Whether You Need a New Sump Pump
Lingering moisture inside a home can lead to adverse consequences – keeping your home dry helps prevent mold and mildew buildup, structural damage, and other problems. Luckily, this is where your sump pump comes in handy. The sump pump in your basement protects your home from excess water. At Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions, we specialize in basement waterproofing services in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Here, we’ll dig deeper into this essential mechanism and how you can tell if a sump pump replacement is necessary.

What Sump Pumps Are and Why You May Need One
Your sump pump is essential in preventing basement flooding. Positioned inside a sump basin, or the pit located in your basement’s floor, this water pump siphons excess water outside via a discharge line. This line, or effluent, ensures the water reaches a designated drainage area away from the house. The sump pump senses elevating water and automatically activates when it reaches a specified level, minimizing hassle for the homeowner.
Not every home needs a sump pump. However, it could be highly beneficial for you if your home meets the following criteria:
- Your property is in a flood zone near a body of water
- You are in a wet climate that sees heavy rain or snowfall each year
- Your basement has flooded in the past
- You have a finished basement, making water damage highly undesirable
Sump pumps come in several sizes and types. Depending on factors specific to the property, one model may be more ideal than another. And if you live in a flood-prone area, it is a good idea to have a backup system. Discussing your options with a professional can help you get an idea of the type you’ll need and the overall cost of a sump pump installation project.
Signs of Sump Pump Issues
While it may be easy to forget about this home necessity, it is important to keep in mind they do not last forever. The average sump pump may last up to 10 years, but it all depends on the model and usage. Knowing how to recognize the signs of a possible issue or failure can help you avoid a wet basement in the future. Common warning signs that a sump pump repair or replacement is looming include:
- Discoloration: Visible signs of battery corrosion, rust, or iron bacteria are an indication that you may need a sump pump replacement.
- Inconsistent performance: Whether it is cycling irregularly or seems to run all the time, these could be a sign of a switch issue, float damage, or another problem.
- Loud noises: Your sump pump has a certain rhythm to it that you get used to after a while, but make sure to keep an ear out for unusual sounds.
- Excessive vibration: If your sump pump is vibrating, it could be a sign that a clog has damaged the impeller (the mechanism that helps draw moisture inward).
As with any home appliance, regular maintenance is important for system longevity. It helps ensure your sump pump is running safely and efficiently. One thing you can do is make sure the basin is free of debris – this helps avoid potential clogs. If you know how to do so properly, you can also remove and clean the pump.
Another step you may take is to schedule regular sump pump maintenance. This is the best solution for ensuring this part of the process is completed with care. Professional technicians are trained to avoid the risks associated with electricity and water, as well as other potential hazards. And they can keep an eye out for signs of age and premature wear and tear.
Trust Professional Sump Pump Replacement Services
Do you think you have a minor sump pump problem? There is really no such thing. Almost any issue with your sump pump can lead to a flooded basement and the unavoidable cleanup afterward. The best plan is to have an experienced professional from a reputable company like Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions look at your system. We can provide recommendations on the new equipment that can help you today, as well as solutions for possible improvements you could make in the future.
Serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions is committed to customer service and workmanship. We’re proud of our award-winning team, which reflects our high company rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and we use state-of-the-art technology and materials to get the job done. For more information about our sump pump replacement services, lifetime warranty, and 0% financing, or to request a free estimate, contact us today.