My Sump Pump Failed, Now What Do I Do?

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience a sump pump failure and need to call someone you can trust, call SERVPRO of Vancouver/Clark County (360) 254-0049

Not all areas of the country have basements, but here in the Pacific Northwest we certainly do. It’s smart to have a sump pump (or 2) in the lower spots in the basement. If you’re going to spend money to have a finished basement, it’s only smart to protect that investment by installing a relatively inexpensive (at least as it compares to the cost of a typical basement finishing project) water mitigation system. But like any mechanical system in your home, it’s not fail proof. In fact, all too often when they’re expected to perform to protect your home they fail and the consequences can be disastrous.

What do I do if my sump pump fails?

In most cases sump pumps fail during rain events. When that happens, the water usually seeps in through the foundation or basement walls and begins pooling in the lowest area of the basement, gradually rising as more water comes in. So what do you do at that point? Here are a couple of suggestions we have to help you navigate a difficult situation.

First, you’re going to need to get the sump pump fixed. A plumber is going to be necessary to get the sump pump back up and running. Immediately call a licensed plumber in your area and get on their schedule as quickly as possible. During rain events, it’s not unusual for many homes in the area to suffer the same fate as you, so plumbers will get booked up quickly. Act fast and call for their help!

Second, call SERVPRO of Vancouver/ Clark County. Make sure your sump pump is fixed before having the water removed; only once the source of the issue has been fixed can the restoration process begin.

Third, consider making a quick run up to your local hardware store to purchase a basement water pump. These pumps can operate continuously during the water event and suck up the water that is pooling and then transport it by hose into a bathtub or other drain. They can work in very little water (the one we linked works in 1/16th inch of water) and if the water stops it automatically shuts off so it doesn’t burn up. You can get a good water pump for under $100.