While they’re mostly autonomous, sump pumps are not foolproof. Like any machine, they can fail, get overwhelmed, or lose power – and when they do, the consequences can be messy and expensive.

That’s where sump pump alarms come in. These handy devices offer an extra layer of protection, giving you the peace of mind that you’ll be alerted if your sump pump isn't doing its job. In this brief article brought to you by the plumbing service experts at Rooter Hero Plumbing, we pay our respects to sump pump alarms.

What is a sump pump alarm?

Before we dive into why you need one, let’s clarify what a sump pump alarm is. Simply put, a sump pump alarm is a device that warns you when the water level in your sump pit gets too high. Your sump pump installation should kick in before the water rises above a certain point, but if it doesn’t, then the alarm sounds off to give you a heads-up that something’s wrong.

These alarms are usually battery-operated or come with a backup power source, so they can still function during a power outage – Not coincidentally the very time your sump pump might be out of commission.

Why are sump pumps so important?

Now, you might be thinking, “I already have a sump pump installation. Do I really need an alarm?” The answer is a resounding yes, and here’s why:

• SUMP PUMPS FAIL: Even the most reliable sump pump can fail. Over time, debris can clog the pump, mechanical parts can wear out, or the pump might simply stop working. If your sump pump fails without you knowing, water will continue to rise in your basement until it's too late. A sump pump alarm gives you a crucial early warning.
• POWER OUTAGES: If your sump pump is wired to your home’s electrical system, it’s completely useless during a power outage unless you have a backup battery or generator. A sump pump alarm, however, can still function during power outages (when equipped with a backup battery).
• OVERWHELMED PUMP: Whether from a particularly intense rainstorm or rising groundwater, a sump pump can be overwhelmed. When this happens, water will keep rising until your basement starts to flood. A sump pump alarm provides that extra layer of protection, giving you a heads-up that your pump is struggling to keep up.
• WATER DAMAGE: Water damage can ruin your floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings. If the flooding is extensive, you might also have to deal with mold, mildew, and even structural damage. And let’s not forget the insurance claims and the stress of cleaning everything up. A sump pump alarm helps you avoid these costly repairs

Consult or hire a uniformed plumber

If you have questions, or if you’d like to have a plumber in Romoland, CA inspect or repair your existing sump pump, then call Rooter Hero Plumbing to get in touch. Our local plumbers are uniformed and regularly trained, and they are equipped to handle everything from a minor repair or sump pump alarm installation to a complete sump pump replacement.