Problem Guide
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Sump Pump Failed? Protect the Basement From Water Damage

A failed sump pump can allow groundwater to rise quickly during storms, snowmelt or high-water conditions. The cause may be electrical, mechanical, float-related or discharge-related.

What This Problem Can Mean

Sump pumps are often the last line of defense against groundwater entering a basement or lower level. If the pump is not operating, the priority is limiting water damage and determining whether the pump, power, controls or discharge system has failed.

Warning Signs

Pump does not start as water rises
Pump runs continuously without lowering water
Float is stuck or obstructed
Pump makes noise but moves little or no water
Discharge pipe is frozen, blocked or disconnected
Water level is rising above the sump basin

Possible Causes

Failed pump motor
Stuck or failed float switch
Power outage, breaker or receptacle problem
Blocked or frozen discharge piping
Pump undersized for current inflow
Check-valve or installation issue

What To Do Now

Keep electrical safety in mind around standing water
Check whether the pump has power only if the area is safe
Move valuables away from rising water
Call for service if water continues rising or the pump will not operate

What Not To Do

Do not enter water near energized equipment
Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that continues to trip
Do not discharge water where it will flow back toward the foundation
Do not rely on a failed pump during continued rainfall

How Tandem Mechanical Can Help

Tandem Mechanical can diagnose the sump-pump system, repair or replace eligible equipment, evaluate discharge piping and test operation after approved work.

Residential Properties

Sump pumps are common in basements, crawl spaces and lower-level areas of homes, rentals and multi-family properties.

Commercial Properties

Commercial sump and drainage systems can protect lower-level mechanical rooms, storage areas and other building spaces where water intrusion creates operational risk.

Sump Pump Failure FAQs

Real Customer Reviews

What Tandem Customers Are Saying

Angi

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Angi

“Joshua, the owner, explained the best options for my plumbing needs, and gave me the estimate when he said he would. The repairs were completed on time & the estimate was the actual bill. We now have a working ice maker and no more floods in our basement!”

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Google

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Angi

“Prompt, professional, quality work. Highly recommended”

TJ S.

Angi

“Excellent job friendly workers. Very well done. Everything was cleaned up. Would highly recommend them.”

Mary C.

Need Help With Sump Pump Failure?

Call Tandem Mechanical or book service online. Availability varies by service area, technician capacity and urgency.

Call 413-667-4998
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