How to Fix a Sump Pump that Only Works When You Shake It

The sump pump appears to have a mechanical issue that requires repair or replacement.

Sump Pump Only Works When I Shake It

If your sump pump only works when you give it a shake, it’s likely due to a motor issue or the presence of air in the system. The motor could be failing or not delivering enough power, and air can get into the pipes, which reduces suction power. To fix the issue, check for clogs in the intake line and make sure everything is tightly connected so there are no leaks. If that doesn’t work, it may be time to replace the motor or get professional help. With these steps, you should be able to get your sump pump up and running properly.

What Could Be Causing My Sump Pump to Only Work When I Shake It?

Sump pumps are prone to a variety of issues that can cause them to malfunction, and one such issue is when the pump only works when it is shaken or jostled. This can be caused by a few different factors, including age of the sump pump, clogged or corroded drainage lines, and insufficient power supply during operation.

The age of the sump pump could be a factor in why it only works when it is shaken. Over time, parts of the sump pump may wear out and become less effective at pumping water out of your basement or crawlspace. This can result in a decrease in performance that causes the pump to only work intermittently unless it is jostled or shaken.

Clogged or corroded drainage lines can also be a contributing factor in why your sump pump only works when you shake it. If there is debris blocking the pipe leading out from the sump pit, water may not be able to flow freely through the pipe and will instead build up within the pit. This will cause your sump pump to run intermittently as it attempts to keep up with the incoming water but fails because of blockages in the drainage line. Additionally, corrosion of metal pipes due to hard water can also lead to blockages that prevent efficient draining from occurring.

Finally, inadequate power supply during operation could also be causing your sump pump to only work when you shake it. If there isnt enough electricity being supplied to the motor when operating, it wont have enough energy to fully engage and lift water from your basement or crawlspace. Inadequate power supply could also be caused by worn-out wiring within your homes electrical system or by an overloaded circuit breaker that trips due to too much load on one circuit.

How Can I Fix A Sump Pump That Only Works When I Shake It?

If you find that your sump pump is only working intermittently and needs shaking before it will operate properly, there are some steps you can take in order to fix this issue and get your pump running efficiently again. The first thing you should do is clean out all debris from around the impeller housing so that any clogs or blockages are removed from around the impeller itself which will allow for more efficient operation.

After cleaning out any debris around the impeller housing, you should then check for any damage on any other components such as check valves which are used for preventing backflow into your basement or crawlspace once water has been pumped out successfully. If these valves are damaged they should be replaced so that they can properly perform their duties again which should help prevent backflow into your basement or crawlspace as well as improve overall efficiency of water removal from these areas.

Is It Necessary To Replace A Sump Pump That Is Not Working Properly?

In some cases, replacing a malfunctioning sump pump may not be necessary if its condition isn’t too far gone yet and regular maintenance is done on it periodically. If you notice any problems with its performance such as decreased pumping capacity over time then it may be worth considering replacing this part as soon as possible so that any future issues with its performance don’t cause flooding in areas where you don’t want it occurring such as inside basements or crawlspaces in homes with finished walls and floors. However, if regular maintenance has been done on this part recently then prolonging use with regular maintenance may still prove beneficial before replacing it outright if possible depending on its overall condition at present time compared with what was expected for its life expectancy given typical conditions under which this type of product normally operates successfully without issue for extended periods without needing repair/replacement anytime soon after installation initially occurred for most users who have experienced similar conditions like yours during their use as well since purchasing their own unit(s).

What Can I Do To Prevent My Sump Pump From Malfunctioning In The Future?

Preventing future malfunctions with a sump pump requires regular maintenance such as inspecting all parts regularly for signs of wear and tear; checking all wiring connections; testing for proper operation; checking float switches; cleaning all filters; removing debris from strainer baskets; lubricating all moving parts annually; checking seals/gaskets regularly; inspecting check valve assemblies often; ensuring proper voltage/amperage levels are being consistently supplied throughout operation where applicable (for electric models). Additionally, repairing or replacing any damaged parts right away instead of waiting until later should help reduce chances for breakdowns significantly over time since most issues tend arise due to improper functioning components due lack thereof replacement following occurrence originally detected previously but ignored until now unfortunately so better luck next time hopefully!

What Are Some Common Issues That Can Cause A Sump Pump Not To Work?

Common issues that can cause a sump pump not to work include low water level in the pit which reduces amount pressure available when motor runs leading reduced capacity overall since less force generated while running compared normal levels should produce essentially equal amounts output each cycle regardless influence outside factors other than those already mentioned here already earlier today already (clogging/corrosion etc). Inadequate power supply during operation may also contribute greatly towards reduced efficiency suffered by unit especially if amperage levels consistently fall short what necessary actually needs operate correctly typically though note low voltage alone usually doesn’t result same type problems usually associated higher amperage settings typically experienced instead unless faulty wiring present somehow otherwise too extreme amount current continuously passing through wires designated handle specific wattage rating instead (especially true case older installations installed prior modern safety standards put place prevent potentially catastrophic occurrences resulting excessive heat buildup potential fire damage happening nearby areas surrounding potentially overloaded area itself).

What Are Symptoms of a Faulty Sump Pump?

One of the most common symptoms of a faulty sump pump is when it makes unusual and loud noises when running. This could be caused by a number of things, such as an obstruction in the lines or basin, or an electrical issue. Other signs of a faulty sump pump include water leaking onto the basement floor, or the sump pump not turning on when it should.

What Should I Do if My Sump Pump Stops Working Suddenly?

If your sump pump suddenly stops working, the first thing to do is determine if its an electrical problem. Check to see if there are any obstructions in the lines or basin that may be preventing the water from flowing correctly. If you find any obstructions, clean them out and see if that resolves the issue. If not, then you may need to replace your sump pump with a new one.

Is It Ok To Continue Using an Old or Faulty Sump Pump?

It is generally not recommended to continue using an old or faulty sump pump as it can cause more harm than good. Before deciding whether to continue using your old sump pump, examine its overall condition and investigate any potentially harmful issues. If you find any evidence of damage, rusting, corrosion or other issues that could potentially cause further damage then you should replace your old sump pump with a new one.

How Long Should a High Quality Sump Pump Last Before Replacement Is Needed?

Generally speaking, a high quality sump pump should last between 5-10 years before needing to be replaced. However, this may vary depending on how often it is used and how well it is maintained over time. For best results always make sure to maintain your sump pump regularly and check for signs of wear and tear before replacing it with a new one.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What Could Be Causing My Sump Pump to Only Work When I Shake It?
A: The age of the sump pump and clogged or corroded drainage lines could be causing it to only work when shaken.

Q: How Can I Fix a Sump Pump That Only Works When I Shake It?
A: To fix a sump pump that only works when shaken, you should clean out all debris from the impeller housing and replace the check valve assembly.

Q: Is It Necessary to Replace a Sump Pump That Is Not Working Properly?
A: Before replacing a sump pump that is not working properly, assess its overall condition and consider prolonging its use with regular maintenance.

Q: What Can I Do to Prevent My Sump Pump from Malfunctioning in the Future?
A: To prevent your sump pump from malfunctioning in the future, ensure regular maintenance is performed and repair or replace any damaged parts right away.

Q: Is It Ok To Continue Using an Old or Faulty Sump Pump?
A: Before continuing use of an old or faulty sump pump, examine its overall condition and investigate any potentially harmful issues.

The most likely cause of a sump pump only working when it is shaken is a blockage in the pump or motor. It is important to check the pump and motor for any debris or sediment that may be causing the blockage. If there is no debris or sediment, then it may be necessary to replace the pump and/or motor. A qualified technician should be consulted to diagnose and repair the problem.