Why is My Sump Pump So Loud?
If there's one rule homeowners should live by, it's this one: Don't ignore sump pump noise. Allowing any type of noise to go unchecked can be bad for the pump — it will likely break down sooner — and the storage items in your basement. You may be wondering, "Why is my sump pump so loud?" There are several reasons your sump pump is loud, including water hammering, slurping, vibrating, or a continuously running pump. If the pump stops working, and you're not aware of it, your home will flood the next time a storm passes through Atlanta.
Here's what homeowners need to know about normal and unusual sump pump noises.
Normal Sump Pump Noise
Water hammering
Water hammering is when rapid changes in water flow (like sudden stop or change in direction) cause pressure surges and shockwaves in a plumbing system, leading to loud banging sounds. It's not unusual if your sump pump makes a loud hammering noise. The sound isn't a signal that there's an actual problem with the pump's operations, though water hammering can be annoying for you and your family. There's a simple fix to the water hammering problem: installing a quiet check valve, also referred to as a spring-loaded check valve. Contact an expert Reliable technician for help installing or replacing the valve.
Sump Pump Noise That Requires Expert Help
Sump pumps can also make noises that are anything but normal. If you hear any of these sounds coming from the sump pump in your basement, turn it off and call an expert right away.
Slurping
Sump pumps often make a slurping sound when the pre-set shut-off height for the pump isn't correctly set. Ideally, the pump should turn off before the point where water moves to the pump's intake area. You'll need an expert to take a look at the pump and adjust the shut-off height, ensuring that the pump can operate well.
A continuously running pump
If you hear the pump running all the time, it's likely that the pump isn't the right size for your basement. Both undersized and oversized pumps are a problem. Ideally, the size of the pump should match the size of the basin where it's installed. For example, if an oversized pump is installed in a small basin, it will pump more water than the basin can accommodate. You'll have to deal with the noise it makes while it's running, and eventually, the overworked sump pump will run dry and break down.
Vibrating
If the discharge pipe to the sump pump connects to the sewage pipes, you may notice a vibrating noise as the pump circulates the water through the plumbing system. It's possible to dampen the noise the pipes make when water moves through them. Just wrap the pipes with foam rubber insulation. However, in some areas, the law requires that the discharge pipe routes water directly to the outdoors, instead of through the sewer pipes. You can hire a contractor to reroute the discharge pipe, which will take care of any vibrating noise once and for all, and ensure the sump pump system complies with local codes.
Sump Pump Making a Loud Hissing Noise
A hissing noise from a sump pump when it shuts off is usually caused by a problem with the check valve or discharge pipe. If you have a check valve installed because of water hammering, it can cause a hissing or gurgling sound as it closes. A blocked dishcarge pipe can also lead to a hissing noise from your sump pump as the backflow of water creates pressure and noise.
Caring for Your Sump Pump
No matter what noise your sump pump is making, it's ideal to have an expert check the pump. Sump pumps require occasional maintenance. Just as any other piece of equipment with moving parts, sump pumps are prone to fail from wear and tear, as well as neglect. Some of the tasks your maintenance contractor will perform include running the backup pump (if you have one) to make sure it's working correctly, testing the pump's discharge and check valve, and adjusting the float.
Contact an Experienced Atlanta Sump Pump Repair Company Near You
If you're concerned about a sump pump noise in your home, contact the experts at Reliable Heating and Air today. We're happy to diagnose the noise and test your system. Just give us a call today!
