What You Need to Know About Your Sump Pump

Posted on August 29, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Whether you have moved into a new house that is equipped with a sump pump, or you are considering replacing the current one in your home, it is important to have the right knowledge in order to prevent costly breakdowns, inconvenient problems, and common user errors, down the line. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about your sump pump.

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Testing Your Sump Pump

When it comes to your sump pump, the most important factor is function. You must periodically check on your unit to ensure it is still working properly. To test your sump pump’s operation, all you have to do is fill up a 3 to 5 gallon bucket with water and pour it into your sump pit. As the pit fills up with water, the float trigger should activate. Then, the water should drain from the pit and the pump should turn off. If this all happens, your sump pump is still operational. If the trigger activates but the water does not drain, or the pump does not shut off, you need to have your sump pump professionally inspected and serviced by a licensed plumber.

Replacing a Sump Pump

Sump pumps are designed to last around 10 years, but their lifespan can vary depending on several factors, such as regular maintenance, number of occupants, annual precipitation, brand or manufacturer, and more. Additionally, the cost of a sump pump averages around $1,000, more or less, depending on the make, model, and retailer you choose. For this reason, it is important to provide sufficient maintenance and care on a regular basis to avoid breakdowns and premature replacements.

Sump Pump Repairs

If your sump pump is experiencing some minor issues, have them addressed right away, before the problem can grow into something worse, and therefore, more expensive. The general rule of thumb is to have your unit inspected professional once every year, regardless of its performance. Failed sump pumps lead to costly basement flooding and property damages, meaning it is much cheaper to replace or repair a sump pump rather than pay for basement and foundation renovations. See our blog, “Top 7 Reasons Why Sump Pumps Break” to learn what signs to look for in a failing sump pump.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Services

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional sump pump service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience working with sump pump inspections, repairs, and replacements. Best of all, we carry the Zoeller Aquanot® sump pump and can install it for you at the most competitive price in town! Call 317-784-1870 and receive a free estimate for sump pump repair and service in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.

Common Sump Pump Issues With Melting Snow

Posted on February 14, 2019 by weilhammerplumbing

Now that the outdoor temperatures are fluctuating more and more, the snow accumulation is not sticking around as long. Everywhere you look, pavements, lawns, and more are soaking wet as if a long storm just passed through; but really, all the excess moisture is a result of the recent melting snow. Although we can be happy that the snow is going away and spring is even closer than before, there are some serious issues associated with snow thaw and plumbing, namely, with sump pumps.

If you have a sump pump system in your home or office, you need to learn what issues might arise during this exponential snow thaw. Continue reading to do just that.

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Sump Pump Maintenance

Whether you have a residential or commercial sump pump system, one of the most effective methods of maintenance is to routinely inspect it to ensure it is still running and discharging water correctly. Although now is a good time to check this, it is also important to do this a few times a month. Furthermore, it is important to have your system professionally serviced at least once per year by a licensed Indianapolis plumber.

After Melting Snow

Right now, your duty is to ensure your sump pump is still intact and functioning properly. Some of the most common issues associated with melting snow and sump pump systems involve check valves, downspout extensions, blocked drainpipes, burst pipes, and more. Worst of all, plumbing and water leaks can occur in more serious situations, leading to flooding, mold, mildew, and of course, costly renovations and remediation.

Here is what to look for after the snow melts:

Check Valve – Ensure that the check valve is still fitted correctly. Check valves allow water to flow in only one direction, while preventing pumped water from returning back through the line. If water is returning back into the line, there is a problem with the check valve, which requires professional repair.

Downspout Extensions – Check that the downspout extensions are still properly installed. Heavy snow and ice accumulation can knock drain and downspout extensions, as well as other plumbing materials, out of place. This can lead to water accumulation, which can affect your property’s foundation and even lead to a mold outbreak.

Blocked Drainpipes – During the freeze and thaw cycles this time of year experiences, water within drain pipes can also freeze and thaw; but sometimes, the water does not thaw enough, thus causing an obstruction in the pipe. This is common during times of snow melt.

For further details regarding sump pump maintenance and care, read our blog, “Top 7 Reasons Why Sump Pumps Break” and learn how to protect your system, year-round.

Trusted Sump Pump Service and Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality sump pump service and repair at an affordable price. We use a comprehensive approach to plumbing diagnostics, with the help of state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technologies in the plumbing industry. Request a free estimate, today.

Top 7 Reasons Why Sump Pumps Break

Posted on September 6, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

Your sump pump is not something you probably think about often, but it should be a plumbing component that you highly respect. So when you need it most, you better hope it works just fine!

Continue reading to learn the top 7 reasons why sump pumps fail, and what you can do to mitigate the hassle.

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Sump pumps are usually ignored by homeowners because they are more of an emergency piece of equipment, much like your fire extinguisher or smoke alarm; although you won’t likely need to ever use it, it is critical to have it there in case of an emergency. The problem here is that a sump pump does not necessarily become a priority until you really need it, and if it doesn’t work, you are in for some trouble.

Sump Pump Operation

Before you can begin to understand all the reasons why sump pumps are known to fail, it is helpful to clear up any confusion you have about what they are and what they do. The chief purpose of a sump pump is to drain out flood waters. Generally installed in the basement, they are designed to transfer flood water out of the house through an external discharge pipe. They work quickly to alleviate the damage and mess that flooding waters can cause indoors.

Sump Pump Failure

The best thing you can do for your sump pump is to remember to inspect it regularly to ensure it is not experiencing any mechanical issues; because when you least expect it, you’ll need it to work well! If not, your broken sump pump can leave you with thousands of dollars’ worth of mess and destruction that will have to come out of your pocket. In fact, a lack of maintenance is the first reason why they tend to break down.

Here are some more common reasons why sump pumps experience mechanical issues or breakdowns:

❶ Stuck Switch – A stuck switch happens to be one of the most common mechanical problems that cause sump pump failure. This usually happens when the sump pump moves inside the basin, which causes the inner float that operates the switch to stick to the side of the pump.

❷ Old Age – One of the most common reasons why sump pumps break down overtime is old age. Sump pumps are manufactured to last anywhere from 8 to 10 years, around which time, they should be replaced to ensure ultimate safety and efficiency.

❸ Power Failure – Power surges and outages will make anything stop working that runs on electricity. The same applies to the sump pump. This is why it is strongly encouraged to install a backup generator for your sump pump.

❹ Obstructed Discharge Pipe – Frozen or clogged discharge pipes are another frequent cause of sump pump failure. Water cannot be drained through the discharge pipe if it is obstructed. Regular maintenance can reduce the chances of this happening.

❺ Overwhelmed Pump – It is easy for a sump pump to become overwhelmed and break down. If a sump pump is not the right size or capacity, this can easily happen. Proper size and horsepower are two factors to consider when choosing a sump pump.

❻ Improper Installation – A big cause for sump pump failure is improper installation. This often happens when novice homeowners or handymen decide to install one on their own, lacking the proper training, plumbing code knowledge, and equipment. It can also happen if you hire a poor quality plumbing company for the job.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality sump pump service and repair at an affordable price. We also offer Zoeller® Sump Pumps, Aquanot ll® Battery Backup sump pump systems, free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

FAQS About Sump Pumps and Basement Flood Prevention

Posted on April 5, 2018 by weilhammerplumbing

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Now that it is spring, we can expect a whole lot of rain. And with heavy rainfall comes the customary seasonal concerns about water leaks, water damage, and worst of all, basement and crawl space flooding. Fortunately, there is a solution to effectively managing excess water flow caused by heavy rainfall, and it happens to be a major component in a home’s plumbing system. We are talking about sump pumps!

Sump pumps are highly effective and important appliances to have if you want to keep the inside of your house dry. Generally located in a basement or crawl space, sump pumps are plumbing appliances that prevent excess groundwater from entering a home. They force excess water out of drains and away from the house during times of heavy precipitation. Sump pumps are often installed in a sump pit, which is essentially a man-made designated hole that houses excess water in the case of an emergency.

Sometimes, learning more about sump pumps and their role in flood prevention can help you reach your home improvement goals faster. It can teach you the purpose of routine plumbing maintenance, and how sticking to a schedule can protect your home from plumbing disasters like basement and crawl space floods. A great place to start is to review some frequently asked questions about sump pumps and basement flood prevention. Continue reading to do just that!

What Does a Sump Pump Do?

A sump pump is located in a basement or crawl space, and installed in a man-made hole called a sump pit. The sump pump diverts excess groundwater in drains by pumping it out and away from a home or building. This prevents interior flooding and keeps the interior dry.

How Much is a Sump Pump?

The overall price to purchase and install a sump pump varies depending on several factors. These factors can include the size, brand, make, model, square footage, location, region, weather patterns, and your preferred budget. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1000 to $2000 for a new system. This may or may not include the price of labor.

Is My Sump Pump Working Correctly?

You can test your sump pump in one of two ways to ensure it is performing properly. The first method involves unplugging the two sump pump cords from the outlet. Unplug both cords, and then plug in only the cord for the pump. If the pump does not turn on right away, there is a problem that needs professional attention. If it turns on immediately, the pump is functioning properly. The second method is to run a little water through it to see is the pump kicks on. You only need a cup or so of water to do this. You can also lift the float arm up to see if the pump turns on. It is wise to consider replacing your pump every 5-10 years. It is wise to have a back up plan in place in case of a huge storm or long power outage.

Do I Need a Sump Pump?

Not all houses require a sump pump since not all properties are likely to be subjected to excess water runoff. Homes and properties that are prone to flooding or located in confirmed flood zones are the ones that will require a sump pump. Talk to a licensed Indianapolis master plumber for advice that is unique to your property’s circumstances and needs. If you do not have a sump pump, it is strongly encouraged to have one installed, especially now before the heavy rains continue this season. If you already have a sump pump, it is important to ensure that it is prepared to perform its purpose by having it inspected by a licensed plumber.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Service and Repair

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed Indianapolis plumber you can trust for quality sump pump service and repair at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for residential and commercial properties, including sump pumps and septic systems. We also offer Zoeller® Sump Pumps, Aquanot ll® Battery Backup sump pump systems, free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

Recommended Zoeller Sump Pumps

Posted on June 3, 2016 by weilhammerplumbing

Zoeller Sump Pumps 317-784-1870

Sump pumps are a vital component for every home, and offer a wide range of benefits. Not only do they protect your valuable assets from flooding waters, they reduce water pressure strain on your home’s foundation. Overall, sump pumps protect you from an endless list of possible disasters and subsequent repairs. One of the highest-rated sump pump brands available in the United States is Zoeller. Zoeller sump pumps are well-established, and have proven to be a dependable and economical choice for residential sump pump systems. They manufacture all of their products nationally, using the highest standards of excellence for materials and technology. You can trust a Zoeller sump pump system to protect you for years to come. Below you will find four top-rated and recommended Zoeller sump pumps on the market today.

Zoeller 53-0001 M53 Mighty-Mate – $135.00

• Automatic Submersible Pump
• Flow Rate of 43 Gallons per Minute (5 ft. of head)
• 1/3 Horse Power
• 115 Volt
• Cast-Iron
• Corrosion-Resistant
• 3 Year Warranty

Zoeller 98-0001 M98 Mighty-Mate – $190.00

• Automatic Submersible Pump
• Flow Rate of 72 Gallons per Minute (5 ft. of head)
• 1/2 Horse Power
• 115 Volt
• Cast-Iron
• Corrosion-Resistant
• 3 Year Warranty

Zoeller 137-0010 M137 Sump Pump- $445.00

• Submersible Pump
• Flow Rate of 48 Gallons per Minute (5 ft. of head)
• 1/2 Horse Power
• 115 Volt
• Cast-Iron
• Corrosion-Resistant
• 3 Year Warranty

Choosing the right sump pump for your home is easy to do when you have a trusted plumbing company on your side. Factors can include the size of your house, the number of occupants, annual rainfall, your average water consumption, and more. Consult an experienced master plumber for help deciding which residential sump pump system is right for you.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company Indianapolis Indiana

Weilhammer Plumbing Company 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for sump pump installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is here to answer your sump pump repair questions in a language you can clearly understand. We don’t use confusing industry jargon, and instead, empower our clients with knowledge! We offer residential and commercial plumbing services, including sump pump repair and more. With more than 100 years as a family owned and operated business, you can trust you are getting the best in plumbing service and repair. Call 317-784-1870 to discuss Indianapolis sump pump repair services, today.

What are the Advantages of Installing a Sump Pump?

Posted on November 20, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

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If you own a home with a basement, you should strongly consider purchasing and installing a top-quality sump pump. This is especially true for home’s located in known flood zones, built on low terrains, or regions with high precipitation. Basements can flood, and water damages will cause hundreds or even thousands of dollars-worth of damages and losses. If you want to safeguard your belongings and prevent devastating basement or crawl space floods, think about buying a sump pump.

Continue reading to learn about all the benefits of owning and installing a sump pump.

Sump Pumps

Basements and other areas of a property that are below ground-level can become flooded with water from heavy rainfall, clogged or poorly-maintained gutters, and large amounts of melting precipitation. Once a home is flooded, it is almost impossible to stop damages from occurring. When a home is built, especially in newer homes, manufacturers drill in a sump pit. This is basically a small dip in the basement floor that collects any flooded or excess water that may enter the premises.

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Sump pits are important for homes with basements that are below the local water table or retain poor foundation drainage systems. These pits must be drained and emptied regularly to prevent overflow. Within the pit is a float, or buoyant tool that notifies when a pit is too full. Once this float reaches a certain level, the sump pump turns on and relieves the excess water. Many sump pump systems have an automated timer that initiates these tasks for a certain amount of time, at regular intervals.

Sump pumps typically connect to a large drainage pipe that carries water out of the pit, to another location far from the home, like a dry well or public drain. A check valve within this drainage pipe prevents water from backflow and returning to the pit. Older homes might drain water to a nearby sewer, but this practice is no longer permitted due to overcapacity.

Back-up sump pumps are important in the case of a power outage. These systems are battery-powered and will operate even when your electricity is turned off. Sump pumps and back-up pumps are extremely lucrative and beneficial investments for all homes. They can prevent a considerable amount of damages and losses, and insure against flooding and drainage problems. Contact a local Indianapolis sump pump repair contractor or plumber for accurate industry advice and assistance.

Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc.

Weilhammer Plumbing Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 to learn more about sump pump installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, and his team of highly trained and licensed plumbers, have decades of experience repairing, installing, selling, and servicing all make and model sump pumps and backup systems. We offer free estimates, emergency services, free plumbing advice, and much more. Call 317-784-1870 and speak with a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis about sump pump repair and installation, today.

Sump Pump Failures and Foes

Posted on August 29, 2014 by weilhammerplumbing

Sump Pump Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Over the past several decades of being a state licensed master plumber, I have seen my fair share of disturbing sump pump failures and foes. Many people, unfortunately, put too much trust in old sump pump equipment. People that own a 15 year old sump pump can surely expect to have a messy situation on their hands sooner than later. And if you are one of these people, and happen to have a finished basement, you might want to consider a sump pump and battery pack replacement before the “overflow” fairy comes to town. Failed sump pumps lead to costly basement flooding and property damages. Trust me when I say it is cheaper to replace or repair a sump pump rather than pay for basement and foundation renovations!

It’s not just the old and ugly sump pumps that can cause massive flooding and property damage. This is why the same warning goes for cheap, poor quality sump pumps and battery backup systems as well. Some cheap units are known to fail within the FIRST YEAR of ownership solely if the battery water level is not checked once every month! It is vital to invest in a high-quality and reputable sump pump back up system in order to evade messy situations and back up accidents. Water-operated brands are not recommended. They tend to malfunction a lot and flood basements.

Recommended Sump Pumps and Battery Backup Systems

The best way to avoid a sump pump accident and flood situation is to buy the very best brands of backup systems on the market. Take for instance:

The Zoeller Aquanot II

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This heavy duty, highly recommended, battery-powered sump pump comes with a 1 year labor warranty, a 3 year parts warranty, and a maintenance-free marine battery. It can be installed in residential properties, as well as, small commercial office buildings and spaces. Check out the customer reviews.

NON-RECOMMENDED BRANDS:

Sump Pro Sump Pumps, Ace in the Hole Sump Pumps, & Wayne Sump Pumps

If you have a low-end sump pump that hasn’t been serviced in years, you are in DIRE NEED of some healthy sump pump education. Contact a licensed Indianapolis Plumber as soon as possible for information about sump pump replacement and purchasing. The longer you wait, the higher your chances for a sump pump accident are. The next time it downpours, is your sump pump capable of handling the water intake? Ask yourself this question when deicing if your sump pump is in good condition or not.

Weilhammer Plumbing Company

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for the most accurate and honest sump pump information and advice in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, has more than 60 years of experience working with sump pump repairs and replacements. We carry the Zoeller Aquanot sump pump and can install it for you at the most competitive price in town! Call 317-784-1870 and receive a free estimate for sump pump repair and service in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.