flooding in basement laundry room

Fix A Leaky Sump Pump Or Replace One: Simple Solutions For DIYers

Replacing a sump pump can be a daunting task for the uninitiated. But if you’re handy with a few simple tools, it’s something you can do yourself.

This guide will walk you through the process of fixing or replacing a leaky sump pump.

Fix A Leaky Sump Pump

Keep in mind that sump pumps come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so your mileage may vary.

plumber installing new sump pump

1) Check for debris

If your sump pump is leaking, the first thing you’ll want to do is check the inlet screen for debris.

If the screen is clogged, it can cause the pump to overheat and fail. Simply remove the screen and clean it with a hose.

When doing sump pump maintenance, you should also check the discharge line for clogs. Plus, make sure the line isn’t kinked, as this can also cause problems.

2) Replace the seals

If your sump pump is still leaking after checking for debris, the next step is to replace the seals. You can buy replacement seals at most hardware stores.

Simply remove the old seals and install the new ones in their place. Make sure you use the correct size seals for your particular pump.

Additionally, you may need to replace the O-ring. The O-ring is located between the pump and the housing.

To replace it, simply remove the old ring and install a new one in its place.

3) Replace the impeller

If your sump pump is still leaking, you may need to replace the impeller. The impeller is the part of the pump that moves the water.

Over time, it can become worn out and need to be replaced. To do this, simply unscrew the old impeller and screw in a new one.

Also, check the volute (the part of the pump that houses the impeller) for damage. If it is cracked or damaged, you’ll need to replace it.

Homeowners like to hire domestic plumbing services for this because it requires special tools to replace.

For instance, you’ll need to use a volute puller to remove the old volute and install the new one.

4) Replace the entire sump pump

If your sump pump is still leaking after trying all of the above solutions, you may need to replace the entire unit.

This is a more involved process, and you may want to hire a professional to do it. However, if you’re handy with tools, you can probably do it yourself.

To replace the entire sump pump, first, turn off the power to the unit.

Next, remove the old pump from the pit and dispose of it properly. Then, install the new pump in the pit and hook up the discharge line.

Finally, turn on the power to the unit and test it to make sure it’s working properly.

Replacing a leaky sump pump can be a daunting task, but it’s something you can do yourself with a little bit of know-how.

This guide will walk you through the process of fixing or replacing your sump pump.

Keep in mind that sump pumps come in all shapes and sizes, so your mileage may vary.

Plus, be sure to check for debris and clogs regularly to keep your sump pump in tip-top shape.

Keep in mind, too, that you may need to replace the entire unit if it’s beyond repair. But with a little bit of elbow grease, you can keep your sump pump working like new.