Sump pumps fail during flash flood storms

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mount Ephraim / Bellmawr recently experienced severe storms and flash floods in the South Jersey area. Severe storms can cause Sump Pumps to fail. 

A sump pump is a mechanical device tasked with pumping excess water away from a property. Water from rain, melting snow, flooding, and other water damage related disasters can seep through a building's foundation into a sump basin or other area where standing water is distributed to the pump. If the sump pump becomes overwhelmed with excessive water or becomes non-operational due to malfunction then catastrophic flood damage can occur.

When standing water is not addressed for 48 hours, another catastrophic disaster can occur in the property. Toxic mold growth can cripple a building's infrastructure while causing a variety of health risks to the occupants of the building. Professional and thorough mold remediation services are necessary in order to remove the threat of mold within the home or business.

There are several reasons a sump pump can fail and what you can do to prevent it:

1.) Loss of Power: When the power goes out during a storm or a heat wave, the sump pump will not be able to drain water. Having a back-up generator specifically for the sump pump will keep water from pooling.

2.) Improper Installation: Following manufacturer instructions when installing the sump pump or bringing in a professional is key! Making sure the sump pump is the correct size and properly installed will make a huge difference with how it functions in the long term.

3.) Age: The average life of the sump pump is about 10 years. As it ages, the efficiency of the pump starts to become reduced.

4.) Clogged Pipes: The discharge pipe can become clogged with debris. Installing a grate or protective cover can keep the pipe clear and prevent overflow.

5.) Maintenance: Regular maintenance on the sump pump is key to keeping performance at peak efficiency. Cleaning the unit 3 to 4 times a year and having the unit checked by a professional bi annually can greatly reduce the chance of failure. Also, be sure to check the position of the float and adjust it as necessary to avoid any jams with the switch.

Should you experience water damage or MOLD from the recent abundance of rain, SERVPRO of Mount Ephraim / Bellmawr is here to help and make it "Like it never even happened."  856-349-7318