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Who To Call When Your Sump Pump Goes Out

April 01, 2024


If it's raining and your sump pump isn't working, the first call you should make is to your local trusted plumber. A malfunctioning sump pump can lead to a lot of water standing in your basement, so it's essential to act quickly to avoid additional damage.

The sump pump pushes water away from your foundation, helping to protect the building from water intrusion. This guide gives you an overview of what to do about your sump pump, including:

  • Who to call when your sump pump goes out
  • Signs of a failing sump pump
  • Preventative measures for avoiding sump pump issues
  • Why it pays to hire pros when installing a sump pump

Learn more about your sump pump system and when to get help from the pros.


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Who to Call When Your Sump Pump Goes Out

If you have water pooling in your basement, there are several professionals you might need to eliminate the water and repair any damage. Below are some of the first calls you should make depending on the amount of water and possible damage.

Full-Service Plumber

Start by calling a qualified full-service plumber. At Ranshaw Plumbing & Heating, we offer reliable sump pump repair and fast response times when you have an emergency. We can also usually get your sump pump running again on the same visit. Or, if you have an aging sump pump or one that is beyond repair, our plumbers can install a new one.

Water Damage Restoration Services (If Needed)

If you notice a failed sump pump early, you might not need any water damage restoration service, but if water collects in your basement, you likely will. Water damage restoration services often start with mitigation, such as removing saturated drywall or setting up dehydration systems to eliminate moisture.

Licensed Electrician (If Needed)

If standing water reaches electrical outlets or impacts other electrical systems, you'll likely need to call in an electrician to do an inspection. It's important to know whether or not it's safe to use the outlets in your basement and what systems might need replacement.

Signs of a Failing Sump Pump

A sump pump in New York is often a set-it-and-forget-it home protection system. When it's running well, you likely don't notice it at all. Sump pumps are installed below your foundation in basements or other below-ground areas. The result is that you may not notice a problem right away. When it's actively raining, be sure to check your sump pump at least once for signs of failure, such as:

  • Unusual noises
  • Excessive vibration
  • Frequent cycling
  • Visible rust or corrosion
  • Lack of water discharge

Any of these are signs that you need a sump pump repair or replacement service.

Preventative Measures for Avoiding Sump Pump Issues

Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid having trouble with your sump pump. When you have other plumbing maintenance done on your home, ask to have your sump pump inspected, too. This inspection can help catch problems before they turn into a full-system failure.

To keep your basement dry when your sump pump malfunctions, you need to have backup systems installed. A little redundancy can go a long way toward protecting your home.

With those in place, inspect the installation on your sump pump for a check valve and make sure the pit size is correct for your sump pump. Having proper systems installed — and ensuring the original installation is correct — can go a long way toward avoiding breakdowns.

Why It Pays to Hire Pros When Installing a Sump Pump

In New York, particularly in coastal areas of the city, homes have an elevated risk of flooding. That means a reliable basement waterproofing system is a must. Some plumbers may offer discount services, but when the water starts to pour in, they're nowhere to be found. Work with a professional plumbing company with a long history of reliable service to ensure your basement waterproofing stands up to the test of time.


Want an experienced plumber to fix your sump pump? Contact Ranshaw Plumbing & Heating.

We have over 60 years of experience installing and fixing sump pumps for our Queens, NYC customers. When you need help, we're always here.


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