What to Do if Your Sump Pump is Not Working?

Finding your sump pump not working during a heavy storm is a fast track to a flooded basement and expensive water damage. To fix it, you must quickly check the power source, clear debris blocking the intake, or unstick the float switch. Many sump pump failures are caused by power issues or mechanical jams that homeowners can often identify and sometimes fix on their own. In this guide, you will learn how to quickly diagnose the failure, apply temporary fixes, and know when to call a professional.

Sump pumps operate in harsh, dirty environments that cause mechanical components to wear out over time. You can narrow down the root cause of your system failure by checking these common household plumbing issues:

• Tripped GFCI Outlet: A ground fault circuit interrupter cuts power instantly if it detects any moisture or electrical shorts.
• Stuck Float Switch: The mechanical buoy cannot rise to turn on the motor because it is pinned against the basin wall.
• Jammed Impeller: Small pebbles or mud bypass the intake screen and physically lock the rotating blades.
• Frozen Discharge Pipe: Water traps inside the outdoor exit line during cold weather and blocks new water from escaping.
• Broken Check Valve: A damaged valve lets water flow right back into the pit after pumping, forcing the motor to cycle constantly.
• Burnt Out Motor Stator: Age, overheating, power surges, excessive cycling, or manufacturing defects can cause the internal motor windings to fail.

Many common pump issues do not require specialized tools or expensive plumbing service calls to resolve. You can try to clear the water and restore operation by using these immediate troubleshooting steps:

1. The Piggyback Plug Trick: Plug the pump motor cord directly into the wall outlet to bypass a broken float switch.
2. The Outlet Reset: Press the red reset button on your GFCI outlet or flip the main circuit breaker switch back to the on position.
3. The Debris Clear: Disconnect the power and manually pull out any stones or trash blocking the bottom intake screen.
4. The Bucket Test: Pour a few gallons of water into the pit to see if the switch moves freely and activates the motor.
5. The Discharge Pipe Clear: Check the outside exit line and clear away dirt, leaves, or ice that block the water flow.

Some mechanical failures require specialized diagnostic equipment or advanced replacements that go beyond basic home maintenance. Licensed technicians will safely restore your basement drainage network by performing these essential services:

• Motor Replacement: Plumbers may replace failed units with durable cast-iron or high-quality thermoplastic pumps selected for the home's drainage needs.
• Battery Backup Installation: Experts set up secondary systems that automatically keep the pit clear if a storm knocks out the power grid.
• Check Valve Overhaul: Professionals install a new one-way valve to stop wastewater from draining backward into the basin.
• Code Compliant Routing: Plumbers make sure your discharge lines do not illegally empty into the municipal sanitary sewer.
• Basin Expansion: Technicians dig out and install a larger sump pit if your current basin is too small for your home's water table.
• Electrical Circuit Upgrades: Plumbers may coordinate with licensed electricians to install dedicated electrical circuits when needed to support sump pump operation.

Maintaining your drainage system is the best way to prevent unexpected flooding and avoid expensive structural repairs. While quick DIY troubleshooting can help during an active storm, upgrading to a durable pump and adding a battery backup system can significantly improve protection against flooding and power outages.

Keep your pit free of debris, test the float switch twice a year, and contact an expert whenever a mechanical issue gets out of hand. Our expert San Tan Valley plumber can provide emergency sump pump repair and replacement. Call us today!

Az Express Plumbing Of San Tan Valley is a full-service plumbing company in San Tan Valley AZ, specializing in emergency repairs, drain cleaning, and water heater services for local homeowners.

It usually stops suddenly due to a power failure, a tripped GFCI outlet, or a blown circuit breaker. It can also happen if the motor burns out completely or the float switch gets stuck in the off position.

You can test it by pouring a five-gallon bucket of water directly into the sump pit. Watch the water level rise to ensure the float lifts smoothly and activates the motor to pump the water out.

You should try the piggyback plug trick to bypass the switch or check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker. If the power is completely out, you will need to use a hand pump or a generator until power is restored.

Yes, you can repair individual components like a broken float switch, a faulty check valve, or a clogged intake screen. If the internal motor windings or stator fail, you must replace the entire unit.

The switch is likely bad if the pump motor runs when plugged directly into the wall but refuses to turn on when plugged into the switch assembly. You can also tell it is bad if the pump runs continuously even when the pit is empty.

A failing sump pump is a serious risk during San Tan Valley monsoon season. Az Express Plumbing provides fast, reliable sump pump repair & installation throughout San Tan Valley, AZ, with same-day and 24/7 emergency service. Call (480) 771-7519 to schedule with a licensed local plumber today.