A sump pump sits quietly in the corner until the one night you really need it. If it fails during a heavy spring storm, or the power goes out while the pit is filling, water can be over the floor in hours. The good news is that most failures give warning signs, and a backup system can cover you when the primary pump cannot.
We connect Bloomington homeowners with an independent local waterproofing contractor for sump pump repair, replacement and backup systems. Call (317) 798-0634 for a free quote. If you need a brand-new pit and pump, see sump pump installation.
Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Attention
- Runs constantly, even in dry weather
- Cycles on and off rapidly
- Hums but does not move water
- Makes grinding, rattling or loud noises
- Visible rust, corrosion or a stuck float
- Water standing in the pit above the "on" level
- The pump is old (many pumps are replaced within roughly a decade, sometimes sooner under heavy use)
- Damp floors around the pit after storms
Common Problems and Fixes
| Problem | Typical fix |
|---|---|
| Float switch stuck or tangled | Clear, adjust or replace switch |
| Clogged intake | Clean pit, add screen or pedestal |
| Check valve failed (water flows back) | Replace check valve |
| Frozen or clogged discharge line | Clear line, add freeze protection |
| Motor burned out | Replace pump |
| Pump too small for inflow | Upsize or add second pump |
| Pit full of silt | Clean or replace liner |
Many repairs are quick. When the motor is failing or the pump is old, replacement is usually more reliable than patching.
Choosing a Replacement Pump
- Submersible vs pedestal. Submersible pumps sit in the water and are quieter; pedestal pumps sit above and are easier to service.
- Horsepower and flow. Matched to how fast your pit fills and how high water must be lifted.
- Material. Cast iron pumps tend to handle heat and heavy use better than plastic ones.
- Switch type. Vertical, tethered or electronic switches each have pros and cons.
A contractor will look at your pit, inflow and discharge before recommending a size.
Battery Backup Sump Pumps
A battery backup is a second pump that runs off a deep-cycle battery when:
- The power goes out
- The primary pump fails
- Inflow is more than one pump can handle
Things to know:
- Batteries need periodic checks and eventual replacement
- Run time depends on battery size and how often the pump cycles
- Most units include an alarm when the backup kicks in
Water-powered backups
These use city water pressure to remove water without electricity. They need adequate municipal water pressure and a properly installed backflow preventer; they are generally not suitable for homes on wells. Local plumbing rules may apply.
Combination systems
A primary and battery pump pre-assembled together, often with a controller that tests itself.
Generators
A generator can keep the primary pump running during outages, but it needs fuel and someone home to start it unless it is automatic.
Alarms and Monitoring
A high-water alarm costs little and tells you when the water is rising. Wi-Fi monitors can send alerts to your phone, which is useful for rentals, cabins and when you travel.
Bloomington Considerations
- Heavy spring and summer storms can overwhelm small pumps.
- Clay soils hold water, keeping drain tile flowing for days after rain.
- Power outages during storms are exactly when backups matter.
- Discharge. Sump water should go to the yard or an approved storm outlet, not the sanitary sewer. Confirm local rules with the City of Bloomington Utilities.
- Rentals. Landlords with basement units often add alarms or Wi-Fi monitors.
Maintenance Checklist
- Pour a bucket of water in the pit a few times a year to test it
- Check the float moves freely
- Clean debris from the pit
- Make sure the discharge line is clear and drains away
- Test the battery backup and replace the battery when needed
- Keep the lid on to reduce humidity and debris
Cost of Sump Pump Repair and Replacement
Repair and replacement costs depend on the pump, the problem, the pit, the discharge line and whether a backup is added. Simple switch or check valve repairs tend to be small jobs; a new pump plus battery backup is a larger one. Treat online prices as general typical ranges; costs vary, so get a free quote by calling (317) 798-0634. Related ranges are on our basement waterproofing cost guide.
When the Pump Isn't the Real Problem
If your pump runs constantly, water may be getting to it faster than expected because of poor grading, gutters or a high groundwater area. Fixing yard drainage can reduce the load. If water enters in places the pump can't reach, see basement waterproofing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sump pump acting up?
Call (317) 798-0634 or send the short form, and a local contractor will be in touch about a free, no-obligation quote.