What Causes a Sump Pump to Stop Working During a Storm?

In this post, we’ll explore the common reasons why your sump pump may stop working during a storm. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a top-rated plumbing company that specializes in sump pump installation and repair.

• Power Outages Are the Most Common Culprit

The number one reason sump pumps stop working during storms is power failure. Most units rely on your home’s electrical system, and when lightning or high winds cause outages, your pump shuts down instantly. Without power, water continues to accumulate, leading to flooding within minutes. The best solution for this issue is a backup system. These systems automatically kick in when your main pump loses power, ensuring continuous operation during emergencies.

• Overwhelmed Pump from Excessive Rainfall

During intense storms, the amount of water entering the sump pit can exceed what your pump can handle. Every sump pump has a specific capacity, and when rainfall surpasses that limit, the unit struggles to keep up. The motor may overwork, overheat, or even burn out. This is especially common in older or undersized pumps. Upgrading to a higher-capacity model that matches your home’s needs can prevent this problem and provide more reliable protection during extreme weather.

• Clogged or Blocked Discharge Line

Another frequent cause of sump pump failure during storms is a clogged or blocked discharge line. When debris, dirt, or even ice builds up inside the discharge pipe, the pump cannot push water out effectively. Instead, the water backs up into the sump pit, forcing the pump to run continuously until it eventually fails. Installing a discharge line with a proper slope, a protective screen, and a freeze guard can minimize the risk of clogging and ensure smooth water flow.

• Float Switch Malfunctions

The float switch is what tells the sump pump when to turn on and off. If this switch becomes stuck, tangled, or disconnected, the pump won’t activate when water levels rise. Float switch issues happen during storms because the pump is cycling rapidly and moving around in the pit. Be sure to call a local plumbing repair service to help you fix a faulty float switch before things get out of hand.

• Pump Age and Lack of Maintenance

Even the most reliable sump pump won’t last forever. Most units have a lifespan of around 7 to 10 years. If your pump is older or hasn’t been maintained regularly, it’s more likely to fail under pressure. Neglected pumps may have worn-out impellers, corroded components, or weak motors that can’t handle heavy water loads. Routine maintenance, such as cleaning the pit, testing the system before storm season, and replacing old parts, can make all the difference in preventing a breakdown.

Reach Out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Sump Pump Installation or Repair

Your sump pump needs to be in good working order all year round to keep your basement protected from flooding. If you notice a problem with your sump pump, contact the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing for sump pump repair. Our knowledgeable and experienced plumbers have the skills and specialized tools to install and repair all types of sump pumps. From power failure to clogged discharge line, stuck float switch, burned-out motor, and blocked discharge pipe, we’ve got you covered. If you need a new sump pump installation when yours has reached the end of its lifespan, we’ve got you covered. Contact us for more information on our sump pump services.