If it sounds like there’s a poltergeist banging around in your sump pump, it’s time to reach out to our team for professional sump pump repairs. When a sump pump starts making unusual noises, it is generally due to debris, loose parts, worn components, or motor issues.
While some noises occur due to normal operations, other sounds represent a potential problem. By understanding which noises are normal and which ones indicate an issue, you can determine when you need to schedule immediate repairs.
Quick Takeaways
- While some sump pump noises indicate a problem, other sounds are harmless.
- You should seek help if you notice signs of a mechanical issue, such as grinding, rattling, or loud humming.
- Banging and vibrating noises generally stem from your plumbing or from loose components.
- Ignoring unusual noises can eventually lead to sump pump failure.
- Instead of allowing the problem to spiral out of control, have one of our professional plumbers evaluate your sump pump.
What Does a Normal Sump Pump Sound Like?
A normal sump pump will make a quiet humming noise while it is operating. It will generally run for 10 to 30 seconds per cycle. While the cycle frequency will vary based on the weather conditions, it will likely turn on at 5- to 20-minute intervals. If it makes any other noises or runs for extended periods of time, you should reach out for professional repairs.
Common Sump Pump Noises and What They Mean
To understand what your sump pump noise means, take a look at some of the most common sounds.
1. Grinding or Metal-on-Metal Sounds
If it sounds like metal is grinding on metal, you may be dealing with worn bearings. This noise can also be due to a damaged impeller or a malfunctioning motor.
2. Rattling or Vibrating
Rattling and vibrating noises can occur when a discharge pipe is loose. Unstable pumps and loose mounting hardware can also cause the same type of sound.
3. Loud Humming
A loud humming sound indicates debris blocking moving components, a jammed impeller, or a strained motor.
4. Gurgling Sounds
Gurgling noises are often due to water flowing backward into the pit or trapped air in the discharge line. For example, a failing check valve can cause water to flow backward.
5. Banging or Thumping
Sometimes, these noises can occur due to water hammer. When the unit turns off, the water in the discharge pipe suddenly changes direction quickly and slams the check valve closed. This produces a loud banging noise. Installing a spring-loaded check valve can prevent this noise from happening.
Alternatively, banging and thumping sounds may be caused by unsecured piping banging against your floor joists and wall studs. By using pipe clamps or wall straps, you can prevent this issue.
When Should You Call a Plumber?
We recommend calling for help if you notice any of the following symptoms.
- Persistent noises
- Visible leaks
- Poor pump performance
- Frequent cycling
- Complete pump failure
Can You Prevent Sump Pump Noise?
In the future, pump noises can be prevented by performing the following steps.
- Routine Maintenance: Performing routine maintenance can reduce wear on the components and prevent them from failing. For example, we recommend using a hose to clean the pump. Afterward, you can use a soft brush to gently clean the intake screen.
- Cleaning the Pit: You can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove mud and pebbles from the bottom of the pit. If these abrasive materials aren’t removed, they can wear out the impeller.
- Test the Pump: If your pump has a float switch, you can lift the float to manually activate the sump pump. If it doesn’t turn on, you need to schedule repairs right away.
- Secure Discharge Piping: You can avoid loud noises by securing the discharge pipe with clamps and straps.
- Annual Inspections: By scheduling an annual inspection with our team, you can detect problems before they escalate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Over the years, we’ve found that Tampa residents ask a few common questions about sump pump noises.
Is it normal for a sump pump to make noise?
While a light humming sound is normal, loud or unusual noises indicate that something is wrong with your unit.
Why is my sump pump making a grinding noise?
This type of noise is often due to worn bearings, faulty motors, and damaged impellers.
Why does my sump pump bang when it turns off?
This banging noise is from something known as water hammer. Gravity pulls the water back down when the sump pump shuts off, which causes the valve to slam closed. If this noise bothers you, our team can install a spring-loaded valve to prevent the sound from happening.
Should I replace a noisy sump pump?
A noisy sump pump doesn’t always need to be replaced. Sometimes, we can fix the problem with basic maintenance or repairs. We can evaluate your sump pump to determine whether you need basic repairs or a full replacement.
Don’t Ignore a Noisy Sump Pump
If your sump pump starts making noise, our punctual plumbers can help. Our team understands the type of maintenance and repairs Tampa homes need. We can quickly determine the source of the loud noise and what type of repairs are necessary.
For help with your sump pump issues, reach out to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today.