A New Sump Pump: 5 Signs You Need One

Have you ever walked into your basement after a heavy rain and found water everywhere? Like anything else in your house, it can wear out over time. If your pump fails, you could face a huge mess. A trained plumber can help figure out the problem, but knowing the signs yourself is good. That way, you’ll know when to call Texas Rooter for help before things worsen.

It’s Over 7 Years Old

Like your phone or a car, sump pumps don’t last forever. Most sump pumps work well for about 7 to 10 years. After that, they can start to wear out. If your pump is older than 7 years, it’s time to start paying close attention. Even if it seems like it’s working fine, it could stop suddenly. When a sump pump quits without warning, it can leave your basement at risk for flooding.

Think of your sump pump as a silent helper. It may not run daily, but it’s doing an important job when it does. If it’s been working for years without a break, it might be time to call Texas Rooter to inspect it. A professional can inspect it and let you know if you need a new one.

It Runs All the Time

Your sump pump should only turn on when water needs to be moved out. If you notice that it’s running all the time—even when the weather is dry—that could signal something’s wrong. It might be too small for your home, or the float switch (the part that tells it to turn on and off) is broken.

A pump that never breaks takes more electricity and wears itself out faster. You could need a new pump and a higher electric bill. Now is a great time to call a plumbing repair service to examine it. Fixing or replacing it now can save you trouble later.

Strange Noises or Vibrations

Sump pumps aren’t silent but shouldn’t be loud, either. If your pump starts making weird noises—like grinding, clanging, or rattling—that’s a red flag. It could mean that a part inside is broken or jammed. Vibrations while running are another sign something’s not right.

Small rocks or dirt can get inside the pump and cause damage. If you hear anything unusual, don’t ignore it. These sounds often mean your sump pump is working too hard or breaking down. A trusted plumber in Allen, TX can check it and let you know if it can be repaired or needs replacing.

It’s Rusty or Smells Bad

Have you looked at your sump pump lately? If it’s covered in rust or smells gross, that’s not a good sign. Rust can build up over time from minerals in the water, making your pump less effective. Smelly water might mean bacteria grows in the pit, especially if the pump hasn’t been cleaned.

This isn’t just a sign of age—it could also mean that the pump isn’t moving water properly. If water sits around too long, it can cause mold or mildew. Yuck. This is when a plumbing repair service can help. They’ll clean, inspect, or replace the pump if needed.

It Doesn’t Work When It Should

This is the biggest warning sign of all. If your basement is flooding, and your pump doesn’t turn on, that’s a problem. Maybe it buzzes but doesn’t pump. Perhaps it doesn’t make a sound at all. Either way, it means the pump has failed. And when that happens, water damage can happen fast.

Don’t wait until a rainy day to discover your pump isn’t working. If you notice water not draining, call Texas Rooter immediately. They can test the system and replace it if needed.

Don’t Wait—Protect Your Home Today

If these signs sound familiar, it’s time to take action. A broken sump pump can lead to costly damage, which you don’t want to deal with in the middle of a storm. Regular checks and quick fixes can go a long way.

Texas Rooter is here to help you stay ahead of the problem. Whether you need a check-up, a repair, or a full replacement, they’ve got the skills to get it done right. And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a plumber or schedule a plumbing repair service to ensure your home is protected.

Your basement deserves to stay clean, dry, and safe—so take care of your sump pump before it lets you down.