CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Sump pumps are essential for protecting homes from water damage, particularly in basements and crawl spaces prone to flooding. They work by automatically removing excess groundwater that collects in a sump basin, typically during heavy rain or snowmelt, and redirecting it safely away from the home’s foundation. This helps prevent structural issues, mold growth, and costly water damage. For homes in areas with high water tables or frequent storms, a sump pump provides critical protection and peace of mind.

Mark Biggs, a plumbing expert at Lanz Inc. in Champaign, plays a key role in both managing the plumbing team and providing field estimates. “My basic role is to oversee the plumbers and help them learn and gain experience,” Biggs said. “And also, to do estimating out in the field to help move things along so the guys have plenty of work in front of them.”

Testing and Maintenance

Homeowners should regularly test their sump pumps. “One of the main things you want to do is lift the float to make sure it’s working,” Biggs said. “Also, observe the discharge pipe. If you see water in your basement or crawl space, it’s probably not working.” Preventative maintenance is key. “We recommend pulling the sump pump out, cleaning intake screens, making sure the check valve is working, and clearing the basin of debris,” Biggs said.

What If It Fails?

When sump pumps fail—often due to power loss—backups are critical. “We recommend either a battery-powered or water-powered backup pump,” said Biggs. “Water-powered backups are great if you’re on city water—they run endlessly. But if you’re on a well, that’s not ideal.” Battery backups typically last 11 to 15 hours. “If your power is out for days, that battery’s not going to cut it,” he added.

Sump Pump Alarms

Alarms can alert homeowners to rising water levels. “There are audible alarms, Wi-Fi alarms, and even dial-in systems that text you,” Biggs said. “An alarm will notify you that water has exceeded the safe level and that something may be wrong.”

Choosing the Right System

There’s no one-size-fits-all sump pump. “We need to evaluate your home—how much water you’re dealing with, the discharge path, and if you’re in a floodplain,” Biggs explained. “You might need a larger pump or even a dual-pump setup.” Biggs noted that improper installation and lack of maintenance are top reasons for sump pump failure. “Most pumps last about 6–7 years. If yours is older, it may be time to replace it.”

Common Causes of Failure

Besides age and poor installation, clogs and mechanical issues also lead to failure. “Sometimes it’s just something like debris or even laundry blocking the intake,” said Biggs. “In new construction, rocks can move around in the basin.” Frozen discharge pipes are another issue. “In winter, pipes above ground can freeze, and your pump just runs without pumping water. Eventually, it overheats and shuts off,” he said.

Final Advice

“Backups and alarms are important, but the most critical component is that primary sump pump,” Biggs emphasized. “It should be your first line of defense.” As spring rain and snowmelt hit Central Illinois, Biggs urges homeowners to stay prepared. “Hopefully it’s not a floody summer,” he said with a smile. “We need the rain, but we don’t need it in our basements.”