Your sump pump has stopped working during a heavy rainstorm. Water is rising in the pit. You have maybe 30–60 minutes before it starts spilling onto your basement floor. Here's exactly what to do.
Step 1: Check the Obvious Causes First (5 minutes)
Before assuming the pump has failed, check these common quick fixes:
Check the power: Is the pump plugged in? Has the GFCI outlet tripped? Check the circuit breaker for the pump's circuit. Reset any tripped breakers or GFCI outlets.
Check the float switch: The float switch is a small ball or arm that triggers the pump when water rises. It can get stuck against the side of the pit. Reach in (carefully) and manually lift the float to see if the pump activates.
Check for blockages: A clogged intake screen or discharge line can prevent the pump from operating. If you can safely check the discharge outlet outside, make sure it's not blocked by ice, debris, or a frozen cap.
Step 2: Call for Emergency Service Immediately
If the quick checks don't resolve the issue, call a sump pump contractor for emergency service now — not after the basement floods. Most waterproofing companies offer 24/7 emergency service. The sooner you call, the sooner help arrives.
While you wait, move to Step 3.
Step 3: Protect Your Property
Move valuables, electronics, and important documents off the floor and to higher ground. If you have a finished basement, move furniture away from areas where water is likely to enter first (typically along the walls near the sump pit).
If you have a wet/dry shop vacuum, you can manually remove water from the pit to buy time — but this is a temporary measure only.
Step 4: Use a Temporary Pump If Available
If you have a submersible utility pump (available at hardware stores for $50–$100), you can use it as a temporary measure. Connect a garden hose to the discharge and run it to a floor drain, utility sink, or outside. This won't solve the problem but can prevent flooding while you wait for a contractor.
Step 5: Document Everything
If water does enter your basement, document the damage with photos and video before cleaning up. This is important for insurance claims.
What NOT to Do
- ▸Don't enter standing water if there's any possibility of electrical contact
- ▸Don't try to disassemble the pump yourself during an active flooding event
- ▸Don't wait to call — every minute matters when water is rising
After the Emergency: What Comes Next
Once the immediate crisis is resolved, have a professional assess why the pump failed. Common causes include:
- ▸Motor burnout (pump needs replacement)
- ▸Failed float switch (often repairable)
- ▸Undersized pump for your home's water volume
- ▸Lack of a battery backup system
This is also the time to seriously consider a battery backup sump pump. The next power outage during a storm won't catch you off guard.
SumpPro Network provides 24/7 emergency sump pump service connections. Call us now and we'll connect you with a vetted local contractor immediately.