Sump pumps remove water from a property, decreasing or eliminating the need for costly property repairs. However, they only turn on when necessary, so some homeowners forget they exist. A functional sump pump is essential for water damage prevention in many Florida homes.
How long does a sump pump last without giving it much attention? Is it time for a replacement? Here’s what you need to know, straight from the mouths of professional plumbers in Tallahassee, FL.
How a Sump Pump Works
These mechanisms sit in pits, or sumps, under basement floors. When water fills the sump, a float switch turns the pump on. It uses the same technology as a toilet tank.
The pump’s impeller spins and changes the air pressure within the pump. Water rushes to areas with lower pressure, leaving the sump and entering the pump. The water then enters the discharge line, which leads the water away from the property.
Florida properties benefit greatly from this technology. The state experiences many tropical storms, hurricanes, and other water-related disasters. A sump pump could be the difference between paying thousands in wall repairs and only needing a post-storm checkup.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Sump Pump
As useful as they are, sump pumps eventually wear down. If you haven’t looked at your sump pump in a while (or at all), check for any of the following signs.
Age
The typical sump pump lifespan is about eight to 12 years. As a homeowner, you want to save money and keep your pump running for as long as possible. In many cases, repairs should suffice instead of full replacements.
However, if you check the installation date and it’s already been a decade, a replacement could be worth the cost. Otherwise, the pump may keep breaking down, even after repairs.
Visible Damage
The pump is made of metal and uses an electrical charge to work. Considering it very often encounters water or sits in humid conditions, the assembly may rust or corrode over time. While consistent maintenance can fend off signs of damage, consider replacing the pump once they get worse.
The last thing you’d want is for it to jam or clog up when you need it most.
Poor Performance
If the pump takes longer to work or makes odd noises, you may need to replace it. Of course, consult with your plumber if you think repairs could take care of the problem. However, if you see poor performance alongside other pre-replacement signs, we suggest you prepare for the expense early on.
Reduced Efficiency
Older sump pumps often aren’t as effective or efficient as newer models, which means you may be paying more than you could be by making an upgrade.
Consider how old your pump is. If it’s near that critical decade mark, you may want to set aside some funds for a pump replacement.
What Reduces a Sump Pump’s Lifespan?
Although sump pumps usually keep working for at least eight years, they may break down earlier than that. How long does a sump pump last without a consistent maintenance schedule? That depends on which problems the pump, your property, or you may be facing.
Here are a few issues that could shutter your pump earlier than expected:
- Frequent use: The mechanical parts inside a pump wear down the more you use them. Those that aren’t used as frequently last longer than ones in frequent use. Of course, if you’re using it frequently, that likely means your property really needs it.
- Pump quality: “You get what you pay for” doesn’t always work since higher prices don’t always translate into higher quality. Even so, you can’t expect good service from a backyard dentist, and you can’t expect longevity from a cheaply manufactured pump. When getting a new sump pump, check the reviews and other product data to see if it’s worth the cost.
- Poor installation: Sometimes, the pump isn’t the problem, but rather those who install it. Incorrect or faulty installation can cause parts within the pump to wear down faster, or the pump may not work properly. Just as you’d read reviews of the sump pump itself, see what others have to say about anyone you might hire to install one.
- Inconsistent maintenance: Sump pumps need maintenance to avoid motor failure, broken components, and other common machinery faults. If you don’t check to see whether it’s running well, small issues can build up. You may end up wasting money on a replacement that could’ve been a repair if caught earlier.
- Other environmental factors: As mentioned, a lot of water can contribute to frequent use, wearing down parts over time. However, the hard water in Florida can also clog the discharge lines and pump components. Consistent maintenance helps lighten the load on your system.
Maintenance To Make Your Sump Pump Last Longer
You can help your sump pump last for its expected lifespan with a few simple tips:
- Regular cleaning: Check the sump for debris and clear the discharge lines at least once every three to four months.
- Test the pump: Pour clean water into the sump pump. Ensure that it doesn’t make unnecessary noises and that the water level drops quickly. If not, you may require professional assistance.
- Battery backup: A sump pump usually uses electricity, yet the power often goes out during a storm, potentially making it ineffective. An energy backup system keeps the pump running even during an outage. If you have a battery backup, check that the battery is charged and ready for use.
Professional Sump Pump Installation and Maintenance in Florida
Cooper’s Plumbing & Air has been keeping local homes free from water damage for over 20 years. Whether you have sump pump issues or are unsure how to do maintenance checks, our certified plumbers can help.
How long does a sump pump last when you maintain it frequently? Experience it yourself! Call (866) 464-7132 for a free quote on any of our sump pump and plumbing services today.