Can a sump pump cause a basement fire?
Yes – sump pump (and basins) can catch fire! The most common cause is older, overworked pumps. Another common cause of basement fires is low-quality electrical work to power the pump, alarm, and battery. Also, remember to make sure you are using the right size extension cord.
How common are sump pump fires?
Sump pump fires are increasingly common. These happen the most during colder months when things become frozen, or there are high water table conditions. Good sump pump maintenance and taking some precautions in case of fire can avoid catastrophe.
Why is my sump pump smoking?
Sump pumps start smoking when they are overworked and unable to drain the pit. Can a Sump Pump Overheat? Yes! Sump pumps will overheat if they do not have the proper electrical connections, pump too much water too fast or if the drainage lines are clogged!
What happens if your sump pump is the wrong size?
If your sump pump is the wrong size the motor may be working too hard after running for extended periods of time – causing a burning smell and risking a fire. Sump pump fires are increasingly common.
What happens if a well pump is stuck in the downward position?
This can happen in the upward or downward position. If it gets stuck in the upward position, it will run constantly. This creates a situation where the motor could overheat or electrical components could fail, diminishing the life of the pump in both cases. If it gets caught in the downward position, it simply won’t turn on regardless of the water level. Tethered float switches can also get caught on another pump in the well, which is something we are seeing more often. Having two pumps in a well is generally fine, and it might actually be advisable to have a backup pump. But, the well has to be suitably large and the installation needs to be done correctly – ideally by a professional – so the floats do not interfere with one another.
What happens if a sump pump fails?
Sump pump failures can result in two potential outcomes: Fire and flood. Fire is a decidedly less common occurrence, however, when a sump pump does catch fire, it is a subrogatable loss. Fires usually involve pedestal pumps since the very nature of submersible pumps make it incredibly unlikely for one to ignite.
Why does a sump pump fail?
For instance, in a rented dwelling, a sump pump may fail because the landlord has failed to maintain it properly. Conversely, a tenant disposing of items in the sump pit can cause the pump to fail.
How old is too old to wear sump pump?
Some failures can be ascribed to manufacturing defects, such as problems with the mechanical or electrical components, but if the pump is more than seven years old, age may be a factor.
What is a submersible pump?
Submersible pumps are smaller, more compact and designed to work underwater. This makes it possible to place them right inside the sump well. The other main difference is the switch. A submersible pump has a tethered float switch which can move in any direction (this will prove to be important later).
Why is it worth investigating a pump?
By the same token, any time there is a damage claim and the pump is not more than a few years old it is worth doing an investigation because it may have prematurely failed internally, whether due to a capacitor, centrifugal switch, high-temperature limit safety switch or float switch failure.
Where is the impeller located on a pedestal pump?
Pedestal pumps have a motor that stands above the sump well with the impeller located in the foot of the pedestal . They also have a vertical float switch which can only travel straight up and down with a guiding rod.
