A sump pump is the last line of defense against a flooded crawl space, and it tends to fail at the worst possible time, in the middle of a storm. If yours has stopped and water is rising, here's what to do.
What to do right now
- Check for power safely. If the pump is plugged into an outlet, see whether the outlet or GFCI has tripped. Don't touch plugs, cords or outlets that are wet or in water.
- Check the float switch. If you can reach it safely, see whether the float is stuck against the side of the pit or tangled in the cord. Freeing it sometimes gets the pump running again.
- Clear the intake. Debris, gravel or silt can clog the intake screen.
- Check the discharge line outside. In winter the line can freeze. A crushed or blocked line also stops water from leaving.
- Get water extraction started. If water is already standing in the crawl space, a restoration company can pump it out and dry the structure, even before the sump pump is replaced.
Sump pump down and water rising? Talk to a restoration pro now.
Call: (317) 426-0557Why sump pumps fail
- Power outages, the number one cause during storms.
- Stuck float switches that never tell the pump to turn on.
- Clogged intakes from silt and debris.
- Frozen discharge lines during Indiana winters.
- Bad check valves that let pumped water flow back into the pit.
- Undersized pumps that can't keep up with heavy rain.
- Age. Many pumps last roughly 7 to 10 years.
Insurance and sump pump failure
Standard homeowners policies commonly exclude water that backs up from a sump pump or drain unless you've added a water backup endorsement. Look at your policy for language like "water backup" or "sump overflow," or call your agent. Take photos and keep receipts either way.
Preventing the next one
- Add a battery backup pump or a water-powered backup.
- Test the pump every few months by pouring a bucket of water into the pit.
- Install a high-water alarm so you know before the water reaches the floor framing.
- Keep the discharge line clear, and route it well away from the foundation.
- Consider replacing a pump that's more than 7 to 10 years old.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my sump pump stop working?
The most common reasons are a power outage, a stuck or tangled float switch, a clogged intake screen, a frozen or blocked discharge line, a failed check valve, or simply an old motor. Pumps also fail when they're overwhelmed by more water than they can move.
Does homeowners insurance cover sump pump failure?
Often only if you have a water backup (sump pump overflow) endorsement on your policy. Standard policies commonly exclude it. Check your policy or ask your insurer.
Should I replace or repair a failed sump pump?
Many sump pumps last around 7 to 10 years. If yours is older or has failed before, replacing it and adding a battery backup is usually the safer choice. Either way, the flooded crawl space still needs to be dried.