Improper Installation

Many times the installer does not follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Ask the installer for the owner’s manual and installation instructions. Read them completely. Here are some common mistakes to look for:

Most manufacturers recommend or require a check valve be installed on the discharge line. If not installed, the backflow of water can cause the pump impeller to rotate backwards and unscrew off the motor shaft. If this happens, the pump motor will run but will not pump any water.

Most manufacturers require the drilling of a small air relief hole in the discharge line between the pump and the check valve. This is intended to prevent the pump from having to overcome the air pressure in the discharge pipe.

Check to make sure the discharge pipe is of the required diameter. The proper size is usually indicated in the owner’s manual.

Install the pump on a dedicated electrical circuit. A dedicated circuit means the pump outlet is the only thing on that electrical branch circuit. Many pump motors require between 10 and 15 amps of power when starting. This is near the capacity of many electrical circuits.

Check to make sure the electrical outlet is grounded (3-prongs). This can be checked with a circuit tester, which is available from any hardware or home improvement store.

Make sure an extension cord has not been used to power the pump.

Check the pump's electrical cord to make sure it does not interfere with the operation of the pump.

The sump pit should have a solid bottom surface. A dirt or gravel bottom can increase the chance that rocks and debris will enter the pump that is too large for it to handle. This may cause the impeller to get stuck.

Clean all dirt and debris out of sump pit before installing the pump.

Make sure the check valve is not installed backwards. Usually there is an arrow on the valve pointing in the direction of water flow.