Dealing with basement flooding can create significant stress and damage to your home. As a homeowner in Columbia, Tennessee, you should know the answer to “How long do sump pumps last?” to proactively protect your property.
Below, our expert plumbers in Columbia, TN, at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup discuss everything you need to know about the lifespans of these devices.
Understanding Average Life Expectancies
The average sump pump life expectancy is seven to 10 years with proper maintenance and care. Your device’s durability depends on how often it runs, the quality of its installation, and how well you maintain it.
These various factors affecting sump pump longevity can either extend or reduce its operational life.
Key Factors That Impact Device Durability
How long do sump pumps last? That often depends on how well you maintain them.
The environment and conditions in which your unit operates play crucial roles in determining its lifespan. Water quality, usage frequency, and maintenance all affect how long your system will continue functioning effectively.
Heavy rainfall and frequent operation can cause more wear and tear on your mechanism’s motor. Hard water and debris can also reduce sump pump durability by causing clogs and mechanical stress.
Common Signs of System Failure
Recognizing early warning signs helps you avoid basement flooding. Watch for these signs of sump pump failure:
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Strange noises or excessive vibration during operation: Grinding, scraping, or rattling sounds indicate worn bearings or impeller damage that can lead to complete failure.
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Irregular cycling or continuous running: A system that runs constantly or turns on and off frequently suggests problems with the float switch or improper pit water levels.
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Visible rust or corrosion: Corrosion on your unit’s housing or components signals water quality issues and deteriorating internal parts.
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Failure to turn on during wet conditions: If your system doesn’t activate when water is present, you may have electrical problems or a failed float switch.
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Age exceeding seven years: Once your device passes this threshold, you face an increased risk of mechanical failure.
Understanding Failure Causes
How long do sump pumps last? Several issues can shorten the typical lifespan. Sump pump failure causes often include:
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Electrical failures from power surges
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Clogged intake screens
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Frozen or blocked discharge lines
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Switch malfunctions
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Improper installation
Maintaining sump pump systems helps prevent these common problems.
Essential Sump Pump Maintenance Tips
Routine maintenance is key to extending the life of your system. Start by testing the pump every two to three months to help verify it’s working correctly.
Additionally, the intake screen needs quarterly cleaning to prevent clogs and maintain proper water flow. Finally, performing a regular inspection of the float switch ensures it moves freely and triggers the pump at appropriate water levels.
Trust Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Clean-Up for Your Repair or Replacement Needs
How long do sump pumps last? With proper care, you can expect seven to 10 years of reliable service.
When you need professional assistance, our team provides expert sump pump replacement and installation services. Call Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup at (931) 330-2060 for all your plumbing needs in Columbia, Tennessee.
