Can I DIY Sump Pump Repairs? Exploring the Risks and Benefits

Can I DIY Sump Pump Repairs? Exploring the Risks and Benefits

  • Sump Pump
can-i-DIY-sump-pump-repairs-mchales

Welcome to our blog post on the importance of hiring an expert for sump pump repair. If you’re considering tackling sump pump repairs yourself, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and the advantages of professional assistance. While the DIY approach may seem cost-effective initially, there are compelling reasons why relying on experts for sump pump repair services, such as those provided by McHales, is worth every penny. In this article, we’ll delve into why professional expertise can make all the difference when it comes to your sump pump’s functionality and longevity.

What is a Sump Pump?

Before diving into the benefits of professional sump pump repair, let’s establish a foundation by understanding what a sump pump is. A sump pump is a crucial component of a basement waterproofing system. It helps prevent flooding by collecting excess groundwater and diverting it away from your home’s foundation. Understanding the role and importance of a functioning sump pump will help you appreciate the significance of proper repairs.

Common Sump Pump Problems

Sump pumps, like any mechanical system, can encounter issues over time. Some common problems include pump failure, float switch malfunctions, clogged discharge pipes, and motor issues. Recognizing these problems early on is crucial to prevent basement flooding and further damage to your property. However, attempting to diagnose and repair these issues without professional knowledge and tools can lead to more harm than good.

The Importance of a Functioning Sump Pump

A functioning sump pump is vital for maintaining a dry and safe basement. It protects your home from water damage, mold growth, and structural deterioration. By promptly addressing any sump pump problems, you safeguard your property’s value and ensure the well-being of your family. Now, let’s explore the risks associated with DIY sump pump repairs.

Risks of DIY Sump Pump Repairs

Attempting DIY sump pump repairs can have various risks and drawbacks. Consider the following:

  1. Lack of Expertise: Sump pump systems are complex, and troubleshooting them requires specialized knowledge and skills that professionals possess.
  2. Safety Hazards: Working with electricity and water can be dangerous, especially if you’re not familiar with proper safety protocols.
  3. Inadequate Diagnosis: Incorrectly identifying the root cause of a sump pump problem may lead to ineffective repairs and recurring issues.
  4. Potential for Further Damage: DIY repairs can inadvertently worsen the problem, resulting in more extensive damage and costly repairs.
  5. Warranty Voidance: Many sump pump manufacturers require professional installation and repairs to maintain warranty coverage.
  6. Time and Effort: DIY repairs can be time-consuming and may require multiple attempts to achieve the desired outcome.

Benefits of Professional Sump Pump Repairs

Hiring an expert for sump pump repairs offers numerous advantages that DIY repairs cannot match. Consider the following benefits:

  1. Accurate Diagnosis: Professionals have the expertise to identify the root cause of sump pump problems accurately.
  2. Skillful Repairs: Professionals possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools to perform repairs effectively and efficiently.
  3. Safety Assurance: Professionals adhere to safety protocols, minimizing the risk of accidents or electrical hazards.
  4. Long-Term Reliability: Professional repairs offer lasting solutions, reducing the likelihood of recurring issues.
  5. Timeliness: Professionals understand the importance of prompt repairs, especially during emergencies or heavy rainfall.
  6. Cost-Effectiveness: Professional repairs prevent further damage, saving you money on future extensive repairs or replacements.
  7. Expert Advice: Professionals can provide valuable insights and recommendations for optimal sump pump performance.
  8. Warranty Protection: Hiring a professional ensures that your sump pump warranty remains valid.

What Can Professional Repairs Offer that DIY Repairs Don’t?

Professional sump pump repairs go beyond just fixing the immediate problem. They provide comprehensive solutions that DIY repairs may overlook, including:

  1. Thorough System Inspection: Professionals inspect the entire sump pump system to identify potential issues and address them proactively.
  2. Preventive Maintenance: Professionals offer ongoing maintenance services, ensuring the long-term reliability and functionality of your sump pump.
  3. Expert Upgrades: Professionals can recommend and install advanced features or technologies to improve your sump pump system’s efficiency.

Hiring an Expert for Sump Pump Repair is the Smart Choice

In conclusion, when it comes to sump pump repairs, entrusting the task to professionals like McHales and their sump pump repair services proves to be a wise investment. While DIY repairs may initially appear cost-effective, the risks involved and the array of benefits offered by professional assistance make hiring an expert well worth it. With McHales, you can rely on our expertise, specialized tools, and extensive experience to accurately diagnose sump pump issues, perform skillful repairs, and ensure long-term reliability. Contact us today!

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By McHales

How Often Should Your Sump Pump Run in the Rain?

How Often Should Your Sump Pump Run in the Rain?

  • Plumbing
  • Sump Pump
how-often-should-my-sump-pump-run-in-the-rain-mchales

As a homeowner, it’s important to understand how your sump pump functions during heavy rain. With McHales sump pump service, your home is protected by this critical component of any waterproofing system. They protect your home from flooding and water damage by pumping excess water away from your foundation. But how often should your sump pump run in the rain? Let’s explore.

What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a device that removes accumulated water in the sump basin. The sump basin is typically located in the basement or crawlspace of a home and collects excess water from the surrounding soil. The sump pump then pumps this water away from the foundation to prevent flooding and water damage.

How do Sump Pumps Work?

Sump pumps use a motor and impeller to create suction and draw in water. The water then pushes through a discharge pipe and away from the home’s foundation. Electricity or a battery backup system power sump pump systems. 

Why is my Sump Pump Important in the Rain?

Sump pumps are especially important during heavy rain because they help prevent flooding and water damage. Without a functioning sump pump, excess water can accumulate around your foundation and seep into your basement or crawlspace. This can cause costly damage to your home and personal belongings.

How often should my Sump Pump run in the Rain?

Your sump pump’s necessary frequency during heavy rain depends on factors like rainfall, soil conditions, and pump capacity. In general, a sump pump should run whenever the water level in the sump basin reaches a certain height. This height can be adjusted based on your specific needs and the conditions around your home.

Professional inspections and maintenance may be necessary to ensure your sump pump functions properly. A professional can also help you determine the appropriate frequency with which your sump pump should run in the rain based on your home’s unique needs.

Keep Your Basement From Flooding With a Sump Pump

Your sump pump is an essential component of your home’s waterproofing system, especially during heavy rain. Understanding how your sump pump functions and how often it should run can help you prevent flooding and water damage in your basement or crawlspace. If you have any questions or concerns about your sump pump’s function, be sure to consult with one of our technicians here at McHales.

In conclusion, it’s crucial to know how often your sump pump should run in heavy rain to safeguard your home from potential damage. With McHales sump pump services, you can have peace of mind knowing that your sump pump is working correctly and providing reliable protection for your home. Regular maintenance and inspections by the McHales team can help ensure that your sump pump is functioning at its best and providing adequate protection for your home during heavy rain.

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By McHales

Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Spring?

Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Spring?

  • Plumbing
  • Sump Pump
sump pump maintenance by McHale's in Pennsylvania

With spring here, you’ll want to make sure your home will be ready to take on the April showers. If you own a sump pump, that’s a great start. However, you’ll want to ensure it’s in working order, as the majority of basement flooding is caused by faulty sump pumps. The first thing you want to do is make sure the gutters and leader drain are clean. However, there are other issues that you can avoid through proper sump pump maintenance in Levittown.

 

Here are five other issues to watch out for involving sump pump maintenance in Levittown:

 

Blocked sump pump switch

Never sweep any basement floor dirt or debris into the sump pit switch, and make sure nothing is blocking the sump pump switch from floating freely. Failure to keep the switch clean can prevent the sump pump from working properly

 

Tripped circuit breaker

Sump pumps can use a lot of electricity, so you should give the sump pump its own dedicated circuit. If there are any other electronics on the same circuit, it might be too much for it and the sump pump’s activation may trip the circuit.

 

Mechanical failure

There are plenty of issues that might cause your sump pump to fail including an undersized discharge pipe and a missing check valve. Whatever the cause, you should contact a professional to help you fix the problem.

 

Clogged strainer

Sump pumps have a strainer at the bottom that the water flows through. If debris is clogging it, water won’t be able to flow through it properly and flooding could occur. Check the drainer every once in a while and clear out any blockages that may be forming.

 

Frozen discharge pipe

If the discharge pipe is frozen or otherwise blocked, water won’t be able to drain out of it. This will cause water to back up and the sump pump will run constantly but ineffectively.

 

If properly maintained, a sump pump can last around 10 years. If you’re not sure of your sump pump’s age, consider buying a replacement and keep a backup on hand in case it fails. Another way to protect your basement from flooding is to buy a two-pump system. It’ll assure there’s a spare pump in case one fails and has an alarm to alert homeowners in case of a failure.

 

What makes McHale’s a high-quality home service company?

For over 60 years, McHale’s has been providing professional home service to homeowners around Levittown, PA. Our time helping people has taught us that remodeling is a process, not a product. Anyone can sell you materials, but it takes a true professional to provide a tearless remodeling product. When you have us help you, you can be sure that you’ll get that tearless remodeling product you’re looking for. Make the right choice today and call McHale’s for any of your home service needs!

By McHales

Why You Need Sump Pump Maintenance

Why You Need Sump Pump Maintenance

  • Sump Pump
  • Uncategorized
Sump pump set up in a basement

When it comes to preventing flooding in your home, it doesn’t get much safer than having a sump pump. Typically, these water removal devices are located in the basement or other below-ground levels in a home or business because they are the most susceptible to flooding. They collect water in a sump basin, and push it safely away so water can’t pool in the lower parts of a structure. 

After your sump pump is installed, it’s important that they receive some professional TLC every once in a while. During winter and spring when rainfall is more likely, they work overtime to prevent flooding. Water damage is not only expensive to repair, it can be a potential health risk for you and your loved ones. Knowing that your sump pump is in top shape will give you peace of mind as a homeowner. Here are ways that you can help to maintain the one working in your home. 

How Much Do You Know About Your Sump Pump?

It’s important for you to know a little about the sump pump working to keep your home flood free. The two most common types are submersible and pedestal pumps. A submersible pump is located in a sump well and is capable of working under water. It has a float that signals to the pump that water needs to be pushed away from the home. Pedestal pumps have floats too, but they are situated above the well.

Though specifics may vary between models, they are all designed to do the same thing. Perhaps the most important part of a sump pump is the battery backup. Sump pumps work using electricity. In order to be sure that they will continue to work in the event of an outage, a battery backup is necessary. 

Maintenance is Key 

Thankfully, flooding doesn’t happen every day. Because they aren’t needed on a daily basis, it’s possible that they end up lying dormant for a while. Regardless, you want to be sure that they’re ready to work when you need them. Here are a few things that you to check up on your sump pump from time to time: 

  • Make sure it’s plugged in and that the cord isn’t damaged or frayed 
  • Check the discharge pipe and ventilation for build up 
  • Remove any debris you come across
  • Test your pump by adding water to the basin 
  • Make sure the battery backup is working

These are a few things that you can do on your own, but it’s important to know when you should call a professional. 

When to Call McHale’s

If your sump pump isn’t in working condition, you more than likely won’t know until you have a serious problem. In this light, getting your system evaluated as soon as possible is critical. Look for  these common sump pump problems:

  • Clogging in the pipes
  • Motor failure
  • Inadequate power for your home’s needs

McHale’s is here to help if your sump pump is experiencing problems. Only through routine maintenance can you be granted the peace of mind in knowing that your basement is protected by a functioning sump pump, so call in the experts today.

By McHales

Spring Warning Signs and Sump Pump Maintenance

Spring Warning Signs and Sump Pump Maintenance

  • Sump Pump
sump pump maintenance to prepare of heavy rain.

The arrival of spring yields melting snow mounds, increased rainfall, wet soil, and at times, basement flooding, regardless of if you have a sump pump or not. If you have a sump pump installed in the basement of your home or business, spring may be a good time to schedule a sump pump maintenance check to make sure it is ready for both May showers and spontaneous summer downpours.

What You’ll Receive from McHale’s Sump Pump Maintenance

Spring can mean rain, rain, and then more rain, especially during this time of year and the amount of rain that’s in the forecast. That is why it is important to be prepared with a sump pump and to make sure to schedule a sump pump maintenance check in case you think something is wrong with it. No one wants to deal with a flooded basement which is why our plumbers are readily available to handle all concerns you might have for your sump pump and plumbing fixtures. If you want to avoid future damages and expenses, don’t hesitate to call the experts at McHale’s, who will be more than happy to help and save you money and time with efficient and high-quality service. 

Why You Should Check your Sump Pump This Spring

Sump pumps are devices typically installed in the basement of a building to prevent flooding by monitoring and controlling water levels below the foundation. In both submersible pumps, which operate underwater in a sump well, and pedestal pumps, which operate above the sump well, built up water activates afloat once it reaches a certain level in the basin. The float signals the sump pump to turn on and begin pumping the water from the basin. While submersible pumps and pedestal pumps are the two most common types of sump pumps in residential homes, other types of less common pumps include floor sucker pumps, which expel water from a flooded floor, and water-powered pumps, which work within a building’s existing plumbing to disperse water. While all of these types of sump pumps vary in their makeup and parts, they are all comprised of several complicated components including motors, floats, float rods, sump tanks, check valves, discharge lines, backup batteries, electrical outlets, and more. An issue in any of these individual parts can cause a sump pump to malfunction or not work as effectively as it should. While sump pumps are reliable in preventing flooding in most cases, they can still be susceptible to occasional issues including electrical failures, stuck switches, overworked pumps, or clogged or frozen pipes. If your sump pump is not working properly, it could be as good as not having a sump pump at all. Faulty sump pump maintenance could lead to flooding and subsequent damage to a structure and its contents. This damage could cost the property owner thousands of dollars in repairs, in addition to increasing flood insurance premiums. Moisture in the basement can also cause mold and mildew, which can be unsightly, hazardous to health, and expensive to remove. Cold, long winters especially can wreak havoc on and cause damage to mechanical items including sump pumps. After months of being in cold basements, sump pumps may not be ready to perform to capacity come spring. To avoid the possibility of undesirable spring flooding, you should conduct a sump pump maintenance check every so often, especially during this time of year. Below are some of the sump pump warning signs to look out for in the spring.

Spring Warning Signs

There is moisture in the basement: An influx of water after snow melt and increased rainfall can be too much for a sump pump that has been sitting idle all winter to handle. The presence of water in a basement is an obvious sign that a sump pump is not working correctly and needs to be inspected.

You notice a funny smell in your basement: An unusual odor in the area of the sump pump or your basement could indicate a presence of moisture-related mold or mildew. Moisture in the basement, of course, could indicate your sump pump is not working properly and needs to be checked out.

The sump pump is making unusual noises: It is normal for some sump pumps to make noise as they are functioning, but hearing noises that are especially loud or out of the ordinary is usually an indicator that something is wrong with your pump.

Your sump pump is running too often: If it seems like your sump pump is turning on and off frequently, or staying on for long periods of time, there may be too much water for your pump to handle. During the spring, rainfall and groundwater accumulation increases, which can add extra strain to your sump pump.

A professional will be able to locate, diagnose, and fix the issue within your sump pump. He or she may replace a part, replace the entire system, or install a secondary backup pump to accommodate rainfall demands. Sump pumps can experience these issues at any point in their lifespans of approximately ten years. Experts recommend sump pump maintenance at least annually and especially in the spring before rainfall becomes more frequent. So schedule a spring inspection today to ensure your sump pump is ready to serve you through spring rainfall and beyond.

Stay up to date with your sump pump and call McHale’s Plumbing for sump pump maintenance and stay ahead of the spring season!

By McHales

What You Can Expect from Your Sump Pump Installation

What You Can Expect from Your Sump Pump Installation

  • Sump Pump
sump pump installation with mchales and what you need to know.

So you’ve just schedule a sump pump installation. Your basement is fully protected from flooding and you no longer have to worry or think about what is going on in the lower level of your home or business — not quite! Sump pumps are vital to keeping your basement from flooding and can provide long term protection without any issues, but they are also very complicated devices whose owners should know what to expect throughout their lifespans.

Why You Should Choose McHale’s for Sump Pump Installation

Many people have a sump pump installation in the basement of their home or business, yet do not understand how it works or how to properly monitor and care for it. That is why it is important to call McHale’s to handle your sump pump installation. When you contact us, not only are you receiving the service it needs but you will also save on the unnecessary time, money, and frustration spent on repairing a flooded basement. It is valuable for you to learn the ins and outs of your sump pump installation, so it can run as efficiently as possible for as long as possible. With McHale’s, you can ensure that you will receive high-quality and efficient service with our experienced and well-trained plumbers and technicians. 

Here’s What You Can Expect from Your New Sump Pump

Types: Your sump pump will be one of the several types currently on the market. Submersible pumps are located inside a sump well and as its title indicates, can operate underwater. Pedestal pumps, which tend to be louder and less popular than submersible pumps, operate outside of the sump well. Other, less common types of sump pumps include floor sucker pumps, which remove water from a floor’s surface, and water-powered pumps, which are incorporated into a structure’s plumbing to control water. 

How it works: Simply put, sump pumps are installed to prevent flooding in structures. During periods of significant rainfall, snowmelt or other wetness, water can accumulate quickly and flood basements in that area. Both submersible pumps and pedestal pumps work to prevent this flooding by using a float. When water reaches a certain point in the sump well, a float prompts the sump pump to turn on and start removing the water before it floods the structure.

Parts and features: While different types and models will have different parts, each sump pumps installation is a product of several intricate parts and features all with a role contributing to flooding prevention.  Some of these parts include motors, floats, float rods, sump tanks, check valves, discharge lines, backup batteries, electrical outlets, and many others. Sump pumps are also equipped with several features designed to reinforce the system and prevent flooding even in the worst-case-scenario. Backup batteries ensure the sump pump will continue to function, even if there is a power outage that prevents the pump from working through standard electricity. The water level alarms sound when the water in the sump pit, exceeds the top of the pump, signaling the property owner to take further action to prevent the basement from flooding. Sump liners prevent a sump pit from becoming clogged and check valves prevent expelled water from returning back into the sump pit.

Common Mishaps with Sump Pump Installation 

Sump pump installation can be saviors when it comes to basement waterproofing, but they aren’t without their issues. As the systems work hard while being exposed to the elements, they can have occasional mechanical issues. Some of the most common problems include electrical failures, clogged pipes, stuck switches, damage from an overworked pump, a rare product defect, or improper installation.

Warning signs: There are some signs that indicate something is wrong with your sump pump installation. If you hear an unusual noise coming from your sump pump, it could be a sign of an overworked engine or a broken part. Similarly, if your sump pump is turning on often, or staying on for long periods of time, it is likely working too hard. The presence of a strange smell in the basement could mean that unwanted moisture caused mold or mildew growth. And of course, if you see water in your basement, it’s a clear indicator that your sump pump is not performing well. You should pay close attention to these warnings so you can call a professional to inspect your device before it fails and your basement floods.

Replacements: If you do have a failing sump pump, there are some options for ensuring your basement is fully flood-proof once again. A professional will be able to inspect your sump pump and determine what it needs. It can be a quick repair or part replacement, or an entire system replacement. In some cases, the professional may decide it is best to install a secondary sump pump to back up and reinforce the first.

Lifespan: When you live in a house for decades, it might seem unusual how often you have to replace your sump pump. Because they run on a motor and are susceptible to wear and tear, the normal life span of a sump pump is only about ten years. They can last longer or shorter, depending on how much use they actually get, and several other factors. Because of this, experts recommend sump pump inspections at least annually, and more frequently as it gets older.

If at any point you need assistance, call McHale’s for care and maintenance on your new sump pump installation!

By McHales

3 Reasons to Consider Sump Pumps in Langhorne This Winter

3 Reasons to Consider Sump Pumps in Langhorne This Winter

  • Sump Pump
  • Uncategorized
Plumber Levittown

With more than 65 years of experience serving customers in Bucks County, we often advise people about how sump pumps in Langhorne can help them maintain their property.

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a pump that’s intended to remove overflow water from basements and cellars. Here’s how it works: most basements and cellars are below ground level, which means they’re relatively close to ground water. However, the ground water level can rise due to excessive precipitation or melt water. When this happens, water will seep into your basement or cellar because it’s below ground level. And since moisture can cause considerable damage to your property, you need to avoid this at all cost.

A sump pump is a type of pump that’s installed at the lowest point of your basement or cellar. It’s equipped with a sensor that measures when the water level rises above a specific point. When this happens, the sump pump automatically switches on and starts to pump out the excess water into the drain system. As a result, your basement remains nice and dry.

Why Homeowners Need Sump Pumps in Langhorne

Clearly, installing a sump pump has a number of benefits for homeowners, including:

  • It keeps your basement dry. Most sump pumps have more than enough capacity to pump out excess rain or melt water. So long as you keep yours in good working order, it can last between 10 and 20 years.
  • It prevents water damage, including mold and mildew growth. Because the water doesn’t seep through into the building, the level of moisture in the basement is significantly reduced. And that prevents mold and mildew from developing.
  • It adds to the value of your home. If you’re planning to sell your home, having a sump pump is a definite plus, since any ground water or moisture problems will come to light during the home inspection. So a relatively small investment now can have big pay-offs later.

To find out more about sump pumps in Langhorne, call the team of expert plumbers at McHales. We’re here to help with advice, pricing and service!

By McHales

Sump Pump Installation- Pennsylvania

Sump Pump Installation- Pennsylvania

  • Sump Pump
  • Uncategorized

McHale’s- The Problem With Battery-Operated Sump Pumps

 

With hurricane season already upon us, homeowners on the East Coast need to ask themselves: are we prepared?  Back in July, we had our first named storm of the season, Hurricane July, which caused major problems for Cape Cod when the torrential downpour caused Flash Flood emergencies.  The “serious and life threatening” rain totals shut down highways and even the Martha’s Vineyard ferry service, resulting in hundreds of travelers needing to be put up in shelters.  Now Hurricane Bertha is coming towards New Jersey,  and reports have stated that its presence will be felt along the coast. In the case of black-outs and flooding, is your equipment all set to minimize the damage and keep you operational?  Don’t wait for a major hurricane to hit to find out!

At McHale’s, we want you to be safe in every storm.  The best way to start doing that is to be informed.  Even if you own a sump pump, you might not be ready for a combination of power loss and basement flooding.  That’s because there are multiple types of sump pump, and they aren’t all created equal.  Our expert technicians highly recommend a Pressure-Assisted back up pump, as opposed to one that is Battery-Operated.  In our decades of experience, we’ve noticed that pumps that are powered by batteries are far less reliable, and in a black-out lasting several days could pose serious problems.

What’s the Difference?

Battery-Operated and Electric Sump Pumps require regular maintenance.  If the fluid isn’t checked each six-months, your sump pump might run out of juice the next time it needs to operate.  Because sump-pumps work hardest during major floods, it’s likely that your battery will die just when you need it most!  In the case of a black out lasting for two or more days, Battery-Operated pumps won’t last the full run.  Your sump pump is your last line of defense against flooding and water damage, so relying on a battery is an unwise and unnecessary risk.

Pressure Assisted Sump Pumps (also known as Water-Powered Sump Pumps), on the other hand, are attached to the municipal water line.  That means that, so long as your neighborhood’s water pressure is running, your sump pump will be ready to go.  They’re a far more consistent equipment, and our expert professionals are always available to do the installation.

Just don’t wait until the last minute to upgrade, or you may be too late!

Be prepared for this year’s hurricane season by calling McHale’s for consultation and service, and you’ll have peace of mind that will weather many more storms to come.

By McHales