Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Summer Rainstorms?
Summer storms in the Chicago area can dump several inches of rain in just hours, putting tremendous stress on your home's drainage systems. Your sump pump is your first line of defense against basement flooding, but only if it's working properly when you need it most. Don't wait for the next severe weather warning to discover your sump pump has failed. Here's everything you need to know to ensure your system is ready for whatever summer storms bring.
Why Sump Pump Readiness Matters in Des Plaines
Chicago's flat topography, combined with aging infrastructure and intense summer storms, creates perfect conditions for basement flooding. A single sump pump failure during a storm can result in thousands of dollars in damage and weeks of restoration work.
The Cost of Sump Pump Failure:
- Average basement flood damage: $10,000-$50,000+
- Mold remediation costs: $3,000-$10,000
- Lost personal belongings: Often irreplaceable
- Temporary housing costs during restoration
- Increased insurance premiums
- Potential health risks from contaminated water
Chicago-Specific Risk Factors:
- High water table: Groundwater levels rise quickly during heavy rains
- Combined sewer systems: Overwhelmed systems can cause backups
- Clay soil: Poor drainage increases groundwater pressure
- Intense summer storms: Rapid rainfall can exceed system capacity
- Aging homes: Many basements weren't designed for modern water management
How Your Sump Pump System Works
Understanding how your sump pump operates helps you better maintain it and recognize when something isn't working correctly. A properly functioning system is your best protection against basement flooding.
Basic Sump Pump Components:
- Sump pit (basin): Collects water from around your foundation
- Pump: Removes water from the pit and pushes it outside
- Float switch: Automatically activates pump when water level rises
- Discharge pipe: Carries water away from your home
- Check valve: Prevents water from flowing back into the pit
- Power source: Electrical connection (and backup power if equipped)
How the System Operates:
- Groundwater enters the sump pit through drainage tiles or natural seepage
- As water level rises, the float switch activates the pump
- The pump removes water from the pit and pushes it through the discharge pipe
- Water is directed away from your foundation to a safe drainage area
- When water level drops, the float switch turns off the pump
- The check valve prevents discharged water from flowing back
Step-by-Step Sump Pump Testing
Regular testing is the most important thing you can do to ensure your sump pump will work during a storm. Test your pump monthly during storm season and always before severe weather is predicted.
Monthly Testing Procedure:
- Safety first: Ensure the pump is plugged in and the circuit breaker is on
- Locate the sump pit: Usually in the lowest part of your basement
- Remove the cover: Carefully lift off the sump pit cover
- Add water slowly: Pour water into the pit until the float rises
- Listen for activation: The pump should turn on automatically
- Check water removal: Water level should drop quickly
- Test the float: Manually lift the float to ensure pump activates
- Inspect discharge: Verify water flows out the discharge pipe
- Replace the cover: Secure the cover back in place
What to Look for During Testing:
- Quick activation: Pump should start within seconds of float rising
- Strong water flow: Discharge should be steady and forceful
- Smooth operation: No unusual noises, vibrations, or cycling
- Complete drainage: Pit should empty completely
- Proper shutoff: Pump should stop when water level drops
Testing Red Flags:
- Pump doesn't activate when float rises
- Weak or no water discharge
- Unusual grinding, rattling, or motor noises
- Pump runs continuously without removing water
- Water backs up into the pit after pumping
- Visible rust, corrosion, or damage to components
Pre-Storm Maintenance Checklist
Proper maintenance extends your sump pump's life and ensures reliable operation when you need it most. Perform these maintenance tasks at the beginning of storm season and after any significant weather events.
Monthly Maintenance Tasks:
- Clean the sump pit: Remove debris, sediment, and any obstructions
- Test the float switch: Ensure it moves freely and activates properly
- Check discharge pipe: Clear any blockages and ensure proper drainage
- Inspect electrical connections: Look for loose wires or corrosion
- Verify backup power: Test battery backup systems if equipped
Seasonal Maintenance Tasks:
- Professional inspection: Have a plumber evaluate the entire system
- Replace check valve: If showing signs of wear or not sealing properly
- Clean pump intake: Remove any buildup that could restrict flow
- Test alarm systems: Ensure warning devices are working
- Update emergency contacts: Keep plumber and restoration company info current
Maintenance Schedule:
Monthly (May-September):
- Test pump operation
- Clean sump pit
- Check float switch
- Inspect discharge pipe
Annually:
- Professional inspection
- Replace worn components
- Test backup systems
- Update emergency plan
Common Sump Pump Problems and Solutions
Recognizing common sump pump problems early can prevent failures during critical moments. Many issues can be resolved with simple maintenance, while others require professional attention.
Frequent Issues and Fixes:
Problem: Pump Won't Start
Possible Causes:
- Power outage or tripped breaker
- Stuck float switch
- Clogged or damaged pump
- Faulty electrical connections
Solutions: Check power supply, clean float switch, inspect for clogs, call professional for electrical issues.
Problem: Pump Runs Continuously
Possible Causes:
- Stuck float switch in "on" position
- Pump too small for the job
- High water table or excessive inflow
- Faulty check valve allowing backflow
Solutions: Adjust float switch, consider pump upgrade, install backup system, replace check valve.
Problem: Strange Noises
Possible Causes:
- Debris in pump impeller
- Worn bearings or motor
- Loose components
- Cavitation from restricted intake
Solutions: Clean pump intake, tighten connections, professional motor inspection, clear obstructions.
Backup Sump Pump Systems
A backup sump pump system provides crucial protection when your primary pump fails or during power outages. Given Chicago's severe weather patterns, backup systems are highly recommended for comprehensive protection.
Types of Backup Systems:
Battery Backup Sump Pumps
How they work: Powered by rechargeable batteries, automatically activate when primary pump fails or power goes out.
Pros: Reliable during power outages, easy installation, automatic operation
Cons: Limited runtime (4-8 hours typically), requires battery maintenance
Water-Powered Backup Pumps
How they work: Use your home's water pressure to create suction and remove water from the pit.
Pros: No electricity required, unlimited runtime, low maintenance
Cons: Requires adequate water pressure, uses potable water, slower pumping rate
Combination Systems
How they work: Integrate both battery and water-powered backup options for maximum protection.
Pros: Ultimate reliability, covers all failure scenarios
Cons: Higher initial cost, more complex installation
Backup System Features to Consider:
- Alarm systems: Alert you when backup system activates
- Smart monitoring: Send alerts to your phone
- Automatic testing: Self-test features ensure readiness
- High-capacity batteries: Extended runtime during outages
- Dual float switches: Separate activation for primary and backup
Warning Signs Your Sump Pump May Fail
Don't wait for complete failure to address sump pump problems. Recognizing early warning signs can prevent basement flooding and allow for planned replacement rather than emergency repairs.
Immediate Attention Required:
- Pump doesn't activate during testing
- Visible rust, corrosion, or damage to pump or pit
- Unusual noises (grinding, rattling, squealing)
- Pump runs but doesn't remove water effectively
- Frequent cycling on and off
- Water backing up into the pit after pumping
- Burning smell from pump motor
Age and Performance Indicators:
- Age over 7-10 years: Consider replacement even if working
- Decreased pumping capacity: Takes longer to empty pit
- More frequent repairs: Multiple service calls in recent years
- Higher energy bills: Inefficient operation increases costs
- Visible wear: Corroded components or damaged housing
Environmental Warning Signs:
- Musty odors in basement (possible moisture issues)
- Water stains on basement walls
- Efflorescence (white mineral deposits) on foundation
- Increased humidity levels in basement
- Mold or mildew growth
When to Call Narsso Plumbing
While basic maintenance can be done by homeowners, certain situations require professional expertise. Don't risk basement flooding by attempting complex repairs yourself.
Call Immediately For:
- Complete pump failure during storm season
- Electrical issues or burning smells
- Backup system installation
- Pump replacement or upgrades
- Persistent cycling or performance issues
- Water damage from pump failure
Professional Services We Provide:
- Emergency repairs: 24/7 service during storms
- System evaluation: Comprehensive assessment of your setup
- Pump replacement: Proper sizing and installation
- Backup system installation: Battery and water-powered options
- Preventive maintenance: Annual service contracts
- Pit cleaning and repair: Professional cleaning and sealing
Benefits of Professional Service:
- Proper system sizing for your home's needs
- Code-compliant installation and electrical work
- Warranty protection on parts and labor
- Emergency service availability
- Expert troubleshooting and repair
- Preventive maintenance programs
Summer Storm Readiness Checklist:
Before Storm Season:
- □ Test sump pump operation
- □ Clean sump pit and components
- □ Inspect discharge pipe and drainage
- □ Test backup systems
- □ Check alarm and monitoring systems
- □ Schedule professional inspection
During Storm Warnings:
- □ Test pump one final time
- □ Clear discharge area of debris
- □ Ensure backup power is ready
- □ Have emergency contacts ready
- □ Monitor basement during storm
- □ Keep flashlight and phone charged
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common plumbing questions. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us directly.