Common Sump Pump Problems and How to Prevent Them
Is your sump pump doing its job — or about to fail? Whether you live in Bergen, Union, Middlesex, or anywhere in New Jersey, sump pump issues can strike fast and cause serious water damage. In this guide, we’ll show you the most common sump pump problems NJ homeowners face and — most importantly — how to prevent them before your basement floods. Keep reading to protect your home and avoid a sump pump emergency.
✅ Section 1: Clogged Intake Screen
Problem:
Over time, debris, dirt, and sediment can build up and block the pump’s intake screen, preventing it from working efficiently.
How to Prevent It:
Clean the intake screen every few months and especially after storms. Make sure your pit is clear of silt and gravel.
✅ Section 2: Frozen Discharge Pipe
Problem:
In cold New Jersey winters, the discharge pipe can freeze and block water from escaping — causing backups into your basement.
How to Prevent It:
Install an insulated discharge line and direct it away from the foundation. Consider a freeze protection fitting.
✅ Section 3: Failed Float Switch
Problem:
If the float switch gets stuck or fails, the pump won’t turn on — no matter how much water is in the pit.
How to Prevent It:
Make sure the float has room to move freely. Avoid tangled cords or debris in the pit. Test it monthly to confirm activation.
✅ Section 4: Power Failure or No Backup
Problem:
Power outages are common during NJ storms — and without power, your pump won’t work.
How to Prevent It:
Install a battery backup sump pump or a water-powered backup system. This keeps your basement protected even when the power is out.
✅ Why Preventative Maintenance Is So Important
Preventing problems before they start is always better than dealing with costly basement floods. With proper care and annual inspections, you can extend the life of your sump pump and ensure it’s ready when storms hit. Our experts at NJ Sump Pump recommend testing your system at least 2–4 times a year.
✅ Serving All of New JerseyFrom North Jersey to the shore, we proudly help homeowners in:
Problem:
Over time, debris, dirt, and sediment can build up and block the pump’s intake screen, preventing it from working efficiently.
How to Prevent It:
Clean the intake screen every few months and especially after storms. Make sure your pit is clear of silt and gravel.
✅ Section 2: Frozen Discharge Pipe
Problem:
In cold New Jersey winters, the discharge pipe can freeze and block water from escaping — causing backups into your basement.
How to Prevent It:
Install an insulated discharge line and direct it away from the foundation. Consider a freeze protection fitting.
✅ Section 3: Failed Float Switch
Problem:
If the float switch gets stuck or fails, the pump won’t turn on — no matter how much water is in the pit.
How to Prevent It:
Make sure the float has room to move freely. Avoid tangled cords or debris in the pit. Test it monthly to confirm activation.
✅ Section 4: Power Failure or No Backup
Problem:
Power outages are common during NJ storms — and without power, your pump won’t work.
How to Prevent It:
Install a battery backup sump pump or a water-powered backup system. This keeps your basement protected even when the power is out.
✅ Why Preventative Maintenance Is So Important
Preventing problems before they start is always better than dealing with costly basement floods. With proper care and annual inspections, you can extend the life of your sump pump and ensure it’s ready when storms hit. Our experts at NJ Sump Pump recommend testing your system at least 2–4 times a year.
✅ Serving All of New JerseyFrom North Jersey to the shore, we proudly help homeowners in:
- Bergen County
- Union County
- Middlesex County
- Monmouth County
- Passaic County
- Hudson County
- Essex County
- And many more
