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How Long Do Sump Pumps Last? Tips for Homeowners

how long do sump pumps last

A sump pump is an important piece of equipment for any home that experiences flooding. It is a machine that helps remove water from your basement or crawl space.

If you have, then you know how important it is to have a good sump pump. But how long does it last, anyway? And when do you know it's time to replace yours?

In this blog post, we will discuss the factors that affect how long a sump pump lasts, as well as some tips to help you extend the life of your pump!

What is a Sump Pump?

Sump pump with water around itA sump pump is a water pump designed to remove water that has accumulated in a sump basin.

A sump pit is usually located in the basement of a home, and it collects water that has leaked through the foundation or seeped up through the floor.

The water is then pumped out of the pit and drained away from the house.

Sump pumps are typically used in homes located in areas with high water tables or where flooding is common.

They can also be used to reduce dampness in basements and crawlspaces.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all share one common goal: to remove excess water from your home.

Submersible pumps are designed to be placed inside the sump pit, while pedestal water pumps are mounted on the outside edge of the pit.

Different types of sump pumps

There are two basic types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible pumps are designed to be placed inside the sump pit, while pedestal water pumps are mounted on the outside edge of the pit.

Submersible pumps

Sump pumps may be located inside or outside your home. They're generally placed in the basement or crawlspace, depending on where the water enters the house.

Submersible water pumps may be used in any location because they are small and inconspicuous, regardless of depth. They all sit beneath the ground, so they take up little to no room.

Pedestal pumps

A pedestal pump, unlike a submersible pump that sits in a sump pit, is placed on the floor, such as in the basement or crawlspace.

This makes it simple to change the pump, as well as check and maintain it. Pedestal water pumps are also a cost-effective alternative.

How Long Does a Sump Pump Last?

Like other appliances and equipment in your home, the lifespan of a sump pump depends on how well it is maintained, the motor, and how often it is used.

On average, a sump pump will last around 10 years. However, some pumps have been known to last for twenty years or more with proper care!

Are you having problems with sump pump? Check out our sump pump services

What Are Common Sump Pump Problems?

The most common problem with water pumps is that they simply stop working. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as:

  1. Wrong Size Pump
  2. Overworked Pump
  3. Clogged Pump
  4. A Stuck Switch
  5. A Clogged Discharge Line
  6. Power Outages
  7. Electrical system failure
  8. Strength of the motor

If you experience any of these problems with your sump pump, it is important to contact a plumber as soon as possible to avoid serious damage to your home.

Does A Sump Pump Need Maintenance?

A sump pump is a handy tool that helps to keep your basement dry by pumping out water that has seeped in.

However, like any other mechanical device, a sump pump needs to be properly maintained in order to function properly.

Failure to do so can lead to a number of problems, including rust and corrosion, build-up of debris, and premature failure.

Call a professional plumber to clean and inspect your sump pump on a regular basis, you can help to ensure that it will be there when you need it.

When Should A Sump Pump Be Replaced?

A sump pump is a critical component of any home that experiences frequent flooding or water accumulation.

The pump helps to remove water from the home, preventing structural damage and creating a safer environment.

However, water pumps don't last forever. Over time, they can become less effective, leading to increased flooding and water damage.

As a result, it's important to know when is time to replace your sump pump.

Depending on the make and model, most of these pumps should be replaced every 7-10 years.

If you live in an area with high flooding risks, you may need to replace your pump more frequently.

Additionally, if you notice that your pump isn't running as efficiently as it used to, it's probably time for a replacement.

How do you stop a sump pump from failing?

What happens if your sump pump fails? Water can begin to accumulate in your basement or crawl space, leading to serious damage.

To avoid this costly scenario, it is important to take steps to maintain your water pump and keep it in good working condition.

  1. One of the most important things you can do is to regularly test your water pump to ensure that it is working properly.
  2. You should also clean the pit and check the float switch on a regular basis.
  3. Additionally, you should make sure that your sump pump has power by connecting it to a backup generator or battery.

By taking these simple steps, you can help to prevent your water pump from failing when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost to replace a sump pump?

The average cost to replace a sump pump is $400-$900. However, the cost will vary depending on the make and model of the pump, as well as the complexity of the installation.

How do you know when your sump pump is going out?

There are a few signs that your water pump is going out, including:

  1. The pump is making strange noises.
  2. The pump isn't removing water from the pit as effectively as it used to.
  3. The float switch isn't working properly.

If you notice any of these issues, it's important to call a plumber as soon as possible. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

How long do outdoor sump pumps last?

Outdoor sump pumps are designed to withstand the elements, but they still need to be properly maintained in order to last.

With proper care, an outdoor sump pump can last for about 10 years. However, if it is not properly maintained, it may only last a few years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sump pumps are a vital part of any home that is susceptible to flooding. They help to remove water from the home, preventing serious damage.

However, they don't last forever. Over time, they can become less effective and may need to be replaced.

To prolong the life of your pump, it is important to regularly test it, clean it, and check the float switch.

By taking these simple steps, you can help to ensure that your pump will be there when you need it most.

About The Author:

Scott Reyes, our proficient Managing Editor and a true plumbing aficionado with over 10 years of dedicated expertise. With an in-depth understanding of the plumbing industry, Scott is your go-to source for all things plumbing-related. His wealth of experience ensures that our content is not only informative but also a reliable resource for your plumbing needs. Dive into Scott's articles to tap into his extensive knowledge and insights.
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