What to Do When Your Sump Pump Alarm Goes Off

A sump pump alarm going off can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not sure what it means or how to handle it. If you’re a homeowner, understanding what to do in this scenario is crucial to protect your property from costly water damage. Thankfully, Everdry Waterproofing of Wisconsin is here to help Milwaukee residents handle all sorts of waterproofing issues. Take a look at our guide to handling a noisy problem with your sump pump.

What Is a Sump Pump and Why Does It Have an Alarm?

Essentially, a sump pump protects your home from basement flooding. The pump collects and removes excess water from the foundation of your home. It’s particularly useful during heavy rainfall or when groundwater levels are high.

The alarm on your sump pump is there to alert you to potential issues, such as rising water levels in the sump pit. It may indicate that the pump isn’t working properly or that the water levels are increasing faster than the pump can handle. Think of it as an early warning system to prevent flooding.

Why Does a Sump Pump Alarm Go Off?

If your sump pump alarm is going off, don’t panic. There are several reasons why the alarm might be triggered. Common culprits include:

• High Water Levels—The float switch in the pump should activate the alarm when water levels rise too high in the sump pit.
• Pump Malfunction—If something is wrong with your sump pump, such as a clog or mechanical failure, water levels can rise and trigger the alarm.  
• Battery Backup Issues—If you rely on a battery backup system, the alarm may indicate that the backup battery is low or not functioning.
• Power Outage—Without power, the sump pump cannot operate, leading to rising water levels and potentially triggering the alarm.
• Sensor Damage—Sometimes, the alarm goes off due to a malfunctioning sensor or a faulty alarm system.

What to Do When Your Sump Pump Alarm Goes Off

Now that you know what might be causing the alarm, you can take steps toward a solution. Here are some simple steps to take when you notice a problem:

1. Determine the Source of the Alarm

Your first step is to figure out why the alarm is sounding. Check the water levels in the sump pump and inspect the pump to see if it’s running. Things like a power outage, high water, and clogs commonly trigger an alarm.

2. Inspect for a High Water Level

One of the most common reasons for the alarm is that the water level in the sump pit is high. If the water is rising above the float switch, it means the pump may not be able to keep up with the flow of water. Be sure to monitor the situation closely to avoid potential flooding.

3. Check the Pump for Obstructions

Debris, dirt, and sediments can clog the sump pump and prevent it from operating efficiently. Before checking for obstructions, make sure the sump pump is unplugged. Then, you can remove any visible debris from the sump pit.  

4. Investigate Backup Power Options

If you’re dealing with a power outage, switch to the battery backup system (if your pump has one). Check that the battery is charged and properly connected. If necessary, use a generator to power your sump pump while the electricity is out.

5. Test and Reset the Alarm

Sometimes, the sump pump alarm may go off due to a false trigger. Once you’ve ensured everything is in working order, try resetting the alarm. If the alarm continues to go off after resetting, further diagnosis might be necessary.

6. Call a Professional

If you’ve tried the above steps and the alarm is still sounding—or if the pump isn’t working—it’s time to bring in professional help. A plumber or sump pump specialist can diagnose mechanical issues, replace broken parts, and offer advice on system upgrades.

How to Reset Your Sump Pump Alarm

Resetting your sump pump alarm might seem easier said than done. But with the right know-how, you can successfully turn off the alarm and get back to your day without the excess noise. To reset your alarm, follow these steps:

• Locate the Alarm—The sump pump alarm is typically attached to the control panel near the pump itself.
• Find the Reset Switch or Button—Look for a reset switch or button on the alarm. It may be labeled as “reset” or indicated by an icon.
• Press and Hold the Reset Button—Press and hold the reset switch or button for a few seconds until you hear a click or see the alarm light turn off.
• Verify the Reset—After releasing the reset switch/button, check if the alarm has stopped sounding. If it continues to go off, call the team at Everdry Waterproofing of Wisconsin for help.

How to Reset a Sump Pump Backup Battery

Sometimes, a faulty backup battery may be causing the sump pump alarm to sound. But don’t worry—resetting it is straightforward. Here’s how:

• Find the Backup Battery—Find the backup battery for your sump pump system. This is typically housed in a separate battery box or compartment near the main pump.
• Disconnect the Battery—Carefully disconnect the backup battery from the power source by unplugging it or removing the battery cables. Keep the battery unplugged for a few minutes.
• Reconnect the Battery—After a few minutes, reconnect the backup battery to the power source. If the sump pump alarm has stopped, you’re good to go!

How To Prevent Future Sump Pump Alarm Issues

Nothing derails your day like a sump pump battery that keeps going off! Try these strategies for preventing future issues with your alarm:

• Invest in regular maintenance from Everdry Waterproofing of Wisconsin.
• Ensure the backup battery is fully charged and operational.
• Remove debris and sludge from the sump pit regularly.
• Consider upgrading your alarm system.
• Schedule professional inspections each year.

Stay Protected and Stress-Free With Our Team

You never want to disregard the sump pump alarm or crawl space water sensor. These tools alert you to potential problems before they escalate. But if the alarm keeps going off, you need a professional to step in. Milwaukee homeowners rely on Everdry Waterproofing of Wisconsin for top-notch services and world-class customer care. Contact us today to get speedy assistance with your sump pump alarm.