A sump pump is an important part of your home’s drainage system, and it needs to be in good working order to keep your basement or crawlspace dry. But how do you know when it’s time to replace a sump pump? Here are a few things to look out for that might indicate it’s time for a sump pump replacement. 

 

Age

Sump pumps don’t last forever, and even the best ones will eventually need to be replaced. If your sump pump is more than 10 years old, it’s probably time to think about replacing it. Even if it’s still working, an older sump pump may not be as efficient as a newer model, and could break down when you need it most. 

 

Excessive Maintenance

Doing some preventative maintenance on your sump pump can help extend its life, but eventually you’ll need to replace it. If you’re having to do excessive maintenance, it could mean it’s time for a new one. If you regularly have to clear debris from the inlet screen, the pump is making strange noises, there is excessive vibration coming from the unit, or you notice rust or corrosion on the unit, these are all signs it may be time for a new sump pump. 

 

Needs Repair 

If your sump pump has stopped working or is only working intermittently, that’s another sign that it needs to be replaced. Sometimes a broken sump pump can be repaired, but depending on the age of the pump and the severity of the problem, it might be more cost-effective to simply replace it. If the float switch isn’t working properly, there is water seeping around the unit, the discharge pipe is cracked, or the housing unit is damaged, you might need to replace the pump.

Of course, these are just some general guidelines—if you have any concerns about your sump pump, it’s always best to call the professionals at FitzGerald and Sons Plumbing Company for a sump pump inspection. 

 

What Does a Sump Pump Replacement Cost?

The cost of replacing a sump pump varies depending on several factors, like the type of pump you need and whether any additional work needs to be done, such as waterproofing the basement or crawlspace. You can contact your local plumbing company to get an estimate of what the average cost would be for both a new unit and labor. Of course, if your current unit is still under warranty, you may get it replaced at no cost to you—it’s always worth checking with the manufacturer first. 

 

Fixing or Installing a New Sump Pump

Replacing or fixing a sump pump isn’t usually a do-it-yourself job, so if you’re not comfortable attempting it yourself, be sure to call the professionals at FitzGerald and Sons Plumbing Company. 

 

If you decide to tackle the project yourself, here are a few tips to keep in mind: 
  • Always disconnect power to the old unit before beginning work on the new one. For your safety and peace of mind, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when working with electrical components.
  • Have all your materials ready before starting. This includes the new sump pump unit, PVC piping, plumber’s putty or silicone sealant, hose clamps, and any tools you might need, like an adjustable wrench or pliers. 
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing your new unit. Every model is different, so it’s important not to make any assumptions about how yours should be installed.

Taking these simple precautions will help ensure that your new sump pump is installed correctly and safely—and that your home stays dry all season long! 

A sump pump is an important part of any home drainage system and knowing when it’s time to replace yours can save you money and headaches down the road. Don’t wait until your sump pump breaks and causes major issues. Schedule a sump pump inspection by FitzGerald and Sons Plumbing Company today. You can have peace of mind that your sump pump is in good condition. If we find a problem, we’ll provide solutions to fix the issue, or replace your pump. Our expert plumbers are licensed, insured, and qualified to conduct a thorough inspection of your sump pump. We utilize state-of-the-art techniques and the best materials to complete your sump pump repair or replacement efficiently and we stand by our quality workmanship. Call us today at 770.863.7239, fill out our contact form, or request a service appointment.