Imagine waking up to a flooded basement – every homeowner's nightmare! Your sump pump, the unsung hero quietly working to keep your home dry, has failed.
Don't panic! Swift action and a clear plan can make the difference between a quick fix and a costly disaster. We're here to help you get your home back to normal when your sump pump takes an unexpected dive.
Is Sump Pump Failure an Emergency?
Yes, a sump pump failure is an emergency. It can quickly lead to basement flooding, causing extensive water damage to your home, belongings, and electrical system. The structural integrity of your home, along with the potential for rapid mold growth, is also at risk.
Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure
There are several reasons why a sump pump may stop working:
Power Outages: Sump pumps need electricity, so they're at risk during outages. If your home loses power during heavy rain or flooding, the sump pump can't function.
Mechanical Failure or Wear: Sump pumps can break down from wear and tear, especially if they're older or aren’t maintained. A float could fail, a switch could be stuck, or the motor could burn out, all of which could cause the pump to stop working suddenly.
Clogged Discharge Pipes or Air Vents: Debris can block a sump pump's discharge pipe and air vent, stopping water from being pumped out effectively. This can cause overflow and major flooding if not addressed.
Identifying the specific cause of your sump pump failure is vital to take appropriate action and prevent future failures – a plumber or sump pump specialist can help with this.
What to Do if Your Sump Pump Fails
While sump pump repairs or water damage restoration should be left to professionals, you can take some immediate steps to mitigate the damage, keep your family safe, and expedite the restoration process.
Immediate Steps to Take When Your Sump Pump Fails:
1. Check the Circuit Breaker
If your sump pump has stopped working, the first thing to check is the circuit breaker. A power surge or other electrical issue may have tripped the breaker, cutting off power to the sump pump.
Locate your home's main electrical panel and find the breaker labeled "sump pump" or "basement." If the breaker has tripped, flip it back to the "on" position. If the breaker trips again immediately, there may be an electrical problem with the pump or wiring that requires professional attention.
2. Ensure Electrical Safety
Before stepping into the flooded area, turn off the electricity to your basement. Doing so will prevent any risk of electrocution and keep you safe while handling the sump pump or removing water. The easiest way to do this is by turning off the main electrical breaker.
3. Begin Removing Water
The goal is to remove standing water as quickly as possible to minimize damage. For small amounts, use towels, mops, and buckets to soak up and remove the water. A wet/dry vacuum can be a big help for larger volumes, enabling you to clear the area of water more efficiently (as long as the outlet is away from the water).
If it's safe to do so, you can also use fans or dehumidifiers or open windows to dry out the affected area thoroughly. Circulating air with fans and removing humidity will help prevent mold growth and further damage to materials while you get professional help.
4. Move Valuable or Sensitive Items
After clearing standing water, relocate valuable or sensitive items like electronics, furniture, documents, and personal belongings from the affected area. If exposed to water, move them to a dry spot to avoid more damage. Document any damage for insurance purposes.
5. Contact the Professionals
When dealing with a sump pump failure, one of the first calls you should make is to a licensed plumber. They are equipped to diagnose the underlying cause of the sump pump issue and make repairs or replacements to get things working again.
In addition to plumbing services, contacting a restoration company is crucial for addressing the resulting water and flood damage. Any and all standing water must be removed, and the affected area must be thoroughly dried to prevent further property damage and mold growth, which can occur within 24-48 hours of water damage.
Who to Call if Your Sump Pump Fails in Midland, MI
If your sump pump fails in Midland, MI, contact ServiceMaster Restoration by FUSON for immediate assistance. Our certified technicians provide 24/7 emergency water damage restoration and mold remediation services to minimize damage and restore your home to its pre-loss condition.
Reach out anytime for help in recovering your basement, home, or business from a sump pump failure!
