Having a sump pump can be one of the best and most affordable ways of keeping your basement and garden free from floods. Sump pumps also work great on pools or ponds when you need to get all that water out when it’s time for cleaning.
If you live in a flood prone area, not having a sump pump during a heavy rain puts your basement at risk. And because you’ll be relying on that sump pump in your time of need, it’s a great idea to know how to maintain and repair it yourself. We’ll be going through the most common leaks that can occur with your sump pump and how to fix them.
Identifying a Leaking Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump in your basement or crawl space, it’s important to make sure it’s working properly. A leaking sump pump can cause water damage, mold growth, and other problems.
Common Signs of a Leak
There are several signs that your sump pump may be leaking. Here are a few things to look out for:
- Water around the sump pump: If you notice water pooling around the sump pump, it’s a sign that something is wrong.
- Strange noises: If your sump pump is making unusual noises, such as grinding or rattling sounds, it could be a sign that there’s a leak.
- Smells: If you notice a musty or moldy smell in your basement or crawl space, it could be a sign that there’s a leak.
Locating the Leak
Once you’ve identified that your sump pump is leaking, the next step is to locate the source of the leak. Here are a few things to check:
- Check the discharge hose: The discharge hose is the pipe that carries water from the sump pump to the outside. If the hose is damaged or disconnected, it could be causing the leak.
- Check the sump pump cover: The cover of the sump pump can become loose or damaged, causing water to leak out.
- Check the float switch: The float switch is the part of the sump pump that turns it on and off. If the switch is damaged or stuck, it could be causing the leak.
Preparation for Fixing a Leaking Sump Pump
Before fixing a leaking sump pump, it is important to take some safety measures and gather essential tools.
Safety Measures
Fixing a sump pump can be dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken:
- Turn off the power supply: Before starting any repair work, make sure to turn off the power supply to the sump pump. This will prevent any electrical shocks or accidents.
- Wear protective gear: Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from inhaling any harmful chemicals or debris.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area to help disperse any toxic fumes.
Essential Tools
To fix a leaking sump pump, you will need some essential tools:
| Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver | A screwdriver is needed to remove the cover of the sump pump. |
| Wrench | A wrench is needed to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts. |
| Pliers | Pliers are needed to grip and hold small parts. |
| Replacement parts | Replacement parts such as a new discharge hose or inlet screen may be needed. |
It is important to have all the necessary tools before starting the repair to avoid any delays or interruptions.
Read: Best Sump Pump For Flooded Basement
How to Fix a Leaking Sump Pump
If you’ve ever experienced a sump pump discharge pipe leaking you’ll realize that it can be a very stressful situation, as that leak can lead to an entire basement flooding. Here are the basic steps to follow to get on top of the situation as quickly as possible.
1. Find the Source of the Leak
Finding the leak can be a real hard task at times because the leak could be anywhere on the pump’s discharge line. If it’s a small leak it also won’t be easy to spot, so you’ll need to thoroughly check from the start of the hose to the end. Even the tiniest hole can turn into large one over time.
You should be able to spot the leak if you take your time and check thoroughly. But if not, start over, and use your hand to guide you down the line while looking closely.
2. Stop the Leak by Applying Tape or Glue
Once you’ve found the leak, you need to check the size and measure the depth. At this point you’ll need to repair the leak by applying either tape or glue to close the hole. Which one you use depends on the size of the leak. Either the tape or glue should be approved by professionals for this purpose.
If using tape you should ensure that you’re using one that is relatively thick and has a lot of grip in its glue. You should ensure that there is no water running through the pipe as you apply the tape to the area of the leak. The most effective method is to place one piece of tape vertically across the hole and then another piece horizontally across it to ensure the leak is properly sealed.
If you’re using glue you should ensure there is no water running through the discharge pipe and also that the area is dry. If you place the glue on a wet area it won’t be very effective. After your glue Is applied you should apply bandage cloth to strengthen the repair.
3. Apply Pipe Cover or Replace the Leaking Pipe
If, after you’ve glued and taped the leak, you still haven’t solved the problem, you’ll need to get a sump pump discharge pipe cover. You’ll then apply this to the existing discharge pipe. If that still doesn’t resolve the leak, or the pipe has too many leaks, it’s advised to get a new sump pump discharge pipe. If you’re not comfortable doing that on your own, then it’s time to contact your local plumber.