Why is My Sump Pump Running When It Isn’t Raining?

A sump pump is a crucial part of every home's plumbing and helps prevent water damage before it gets out of hand. Sump pumps prevent water from seeping into your home, especially during heavy rains, but when you hear a whooshing sound on a sunny day, you need to call a plumber for sump pump repair. When a sump pump is running on a sunny day, it can raise many concerns, and that's why Mr. Rooter Plumbing is dedicated to helping you understand how it works and the maintenance required for it to function as expected. Here are some of the common reasons compiled by our team why your sump pump might be working even when it's not raining.

A Rise in the Water Table

After the spring storms, lingering effects can be felt on the water table, and it may take a while for the water table to normalize. This means that the first few sunny days of spring still show the accumulation of rainfall from the previous days. Other factors that can lead to a rise in the water table include construction and altering the course of a nearby stream or run-off, leading to an increase in the water table. An increase in the water table can cause a flooded basement or other flood-related issues. If you detect any sign of extended labor from your sump pump, a plumber in Chamblee, GA can help you check for sump pump failure or groundwater leaks.

An Undersized Sump Pump System

Every sump pump is rated according to its pumping capacity. Homeowners need to ensure that the pump has the horsepower required to move water vertically as it exits the basement. You should also ensure that the discharge pipe is sized correctly to enable the water to be pumped out efficiently. A small line or too little power can compromise the system's efficiency, making it kick on frequently and causing a delay in expelling water. If this is the case, you need to call a licensed plumber to assess the capacity of your sump pump to ensure it meets the needs and size of your home.

A Broken Float Switch

The float switch acts as a trigger that activates the discharge of water. However, that switch is prone to damage and can get stuck in an "on" or "up" position forcing the sump pump to run continuously. The float can be dislodged manually, but if that doesn't correct the issue, it means it is damaged and needs replacement. If you don't have the tools or expertise to conduct replacement on your own, the experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help you maintain a functioning and effective sump pump.

Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump should work without you hearing it, and any weird noises can be considered a sign of damage. If you hear clunking noises, you need to conduct a manual test to ensure everything is working efficiently. Mr. Rooter Plumbing has an experienced team that can diagnose any issue that compromises its efficiency. Call us today and enjoy quality sump pump repair and maintenance at a competitive market price.