Is Your Sump Pump Making Strange Noises? Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs!

When your sump pump starts making unusual sounds, it’s more than just an annoyance—it’s often your first warning that something needs attention. Don’t ignore sump pump noise. Allowing any type of noise to go unchecked can be bad for the pump — it will likely break down sooner — and the storage items in your basement. Understanding what different sounds mean can help you identify problems early and prevent costly water damage to your home.

Common Sump Pump Noises and What They Mean

Normally the only sound a sump pump makes is a low continuous hum, but if it starts making loud and unusual noises (sometimes described as sounding like a washing machine), then it’s time for a repair. Here are the most common problematic sounds and their likely causes:

Banging or Thudding Sounds

Water hammering is when rapid changes in water flow (like sudden stop or change in direction) cause pressure surges and shockwaves in a plumbing system, leading to loud banging sounds. It’s not unusual if your sump pump makes a loud hammering noise. A banging or thudding noise is usually caused by a rush of water streaming back down the pipe and hitting the closed check valve. The good news is that there’s a simple fix to the water hammering problem: installing a quiet check valve, also referred to as a spring-loaded check valve.

Grinding or Rattling Noises

In most cases, a grinding sound indicates a major problem. Possible causes include a buildup of junk in the impeller or a failing motor. A rattling or grinding noise can indicate something wrong with the impeller or fan. If you hear these sounds, you should shut off the power and check the impeller for built-up debris. You might also need to clean or replace damaged components.

Humming Without Water Movement

If you hear a humming noise but don’t see any moving water, there could be a stuck float switch. The motor might also be locking up. To reiterate, a soft hum signifies that your sump pump is working properly. However, there may be cause for worry if the hum becomes louder and more noticeable. This noise can point to an underlying cause.

Gurgling or Slurping Sounds

Sump pumps often make a slurping sound when the pre-set shut-off height for the pump isn’t correctly set. A gurgling sump pump is a common indicator of poor water movement out of the output line. A broken or missing check valve might cause this.

Hissing Noises

A hissing noise from a sump pump when it shuts off is usually caused by a problem with the check valve or discharge pipe. If you have a check valve installed because of water hammering, it can cause a hissing or gurgling sound as it closes.

Quick DIY Troubleshooting Steps

Before calling for professional help, there are a few simple checks you can perform:

• Check the float switch: You can lift the float manually to see if the pump starts. Make sure it’s not stuck or tangled.
• Inspect for debris: When addressing sump pump noises, start by examining the discharge pipes for any debris that might be causing a blockage. You should also inspect the float switch to ensure it is functioning correctly and not impeding the sump pump’s operation.
• Look for vibration issues: Are you hearing clanging or rattling from the pipes? The movement of water through the pipes may cause them to vibrate against the side of the pit or wall.
• Check pipe insulation: It’s possible to dampen the noise the pipes make when water moves through them. Just wrap the pipes with foam rubber insulation.

When to Call Professional Help

A noisy sump pump is no fun, and while it may seem like an innocuous issue, it can indicate a critical malfunction with your system. The longer you ignore the noise, the greater the damage your sump pump can suffer. You should contact a professional immediately if:

• The pump runs continuously without stopping
• You hear loud grinding or screeching sounds
• The pump fails to turn on during heavy rain
• There are visible signs of rust or corrosion
• The noise gets progressively worse over time

Regardless of the noise, if it gets worse over time, this means there’s a growing problem with the sump pump or drainage system. You should schedule a repair right away so the basement doesn’t flood the next time it storms.

Professional Sump Pump Services in Greensboro, NC

For residents in the Greensboro area dealing with sump pump noise issues, professional help is readily available. Clean Air has been serving the community for over three decades, providing comprehensive home services including sump pump repair and installation. The experts at Clean Air extend our reputation for top-tier air duct services to our French drain and sump pump offerings. Expect quick estimates, exceptional attention to detail, and competitive pricing for all your water management needs.

When you need reliable Sump Pump Repair Greensboro, NC services, choosing an experienced local company makes all the difference. Sump Pump Installation and Repair: We offer a variety of sump pump options and provide reliable repair services. Inspections and Estimates: Our experienced technicians will assess your property and provide a detailed estimate for the best solution.

Prevention is Key

The majority of sump pumps last 7 to 10 years with proper care and maintenance. Regular maintenance can prevent many noise issues and extend your pump’s lifespan. Sump pumps require occasional maintenance. Just as any other piece of equipment with moving parts, sump pumps are prone to fail from wear and tear, as well as neglect. Some of the tasks your maintenance contractor will perform include running the backup pump (if you have one) to make sure it’s working correctly, testing the pump’s discharge and check valve, and adjusting the float.

Don’t wait until strange noises become major problems. When it comes to your sump pump, one strange noise might be no big deal—but it could also be the beginning of the end. Knowing what each sound means is vital to choosing the right solution. The important thing is that you listen now so you don’t pay later. By understanding these common sump pump sounds and taking prompt action when issues arise, you can protect your home from water damage and ensure your sump pump continues to operate effectively for years to come.