How to Tell If Your Sump Pump Is Working Before Spring Rain Hits
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Spring rains help lawns turn green and flowers bloom—but they can also put your basement at risk. Heavy rainfall can wreak havoc on homes with basements or lower levels. In fact, about 1 in 60 U.S. homes experiences water damage each year. That's why having a sump pump in your New Jersey home is a smart idea. But how can you tell if your sump pump is working and be sure it'll come through when you need it most?
In this blog, you'll learn how to check if your sump pump is working, how to reset it, how to tell if it's burned out, and when it's time to call A.J. Perri for professional service.
Quick Refresher: How a Sump Pump Works
Before diving into specifics, let's refresh your memory as to how a sump pump works. A sump pump prevents flooding by automatically detecting water and directing it away from your home's foundation.
A sump pump is installed at the lowest part of your basement or crawl space and works like this:
Water flows into the sump pit.
A float switch or pressure sensor detects the water and activates the pump.
The impeller pushes water through the discharge pipe away from the foundation.
A check valve prevents water from flowing back into the pit.
Typically, this is powered by your home's electricity (battery backup recommended for storms).
How Do I Test If My Sump Pump Is Working?
Again, spring is an ideal time to test your sump pump, so you can be certain it's ready when those spring rains fall. So, how do you check if your sump pump is working? Follow these DIY steps to test it:
Check the power source.
The first thing you'll want to do is make sure it is plugged in. Once you've done that, check that the GFCI outlet hasn't tripped.
Inspect the discharge pipe.
Examine the discharge pipe (the PVC or copper line that connects to the pump and carries water away). Clear any debris or ice buildup you may see.
Perform a water test.
Get a bucket of water and slowly pour it into the sump pump pit. Watch for the float rising, the pump activating, and the water being diverted from your foundation.
Listen.
Does the pump sound smooth, or does it make rattling or grinding noises?
The pump should turn on automatically, causing the water to drain. Once the water level drops, the pump should shut off. If this doesn't happen, your pump may need to be reset, or it could be failing. In either case, it's best to have it inspected by A.J. Perri before the next storm.
How Do I Reset My Sump Pump?
If your sump pump suddenly stops working, it may simply need a reset. Before assuming the motor has gone bad, follow these easy steps.
Unplug the pump.
Wait 10 to 15 minutes.
Check your breaker panel for a tripped breaker.
Examine the float switch for obstructions.
Plug the pump back in.
If the pump starts working again, you're good to go. If not, there may be a deeper issue that requires professional service.
Important notes: If your pump has a reset button, press it firmly until you hear a click. Retest the pump with a water test. If the pump repeatedly trips the breaker or won't restart, that's a warning sign of motor failure—don't ignore it and schedule service with A.J. Perri.
How Do I Know If My Sump Pump Is Burnt Out?
Most homeowners don't realize their sump pump has failed until a heavy rainstorm hits. Knowing the warning signs can help prevent water damage.
Common signs of a burnt-out pump:
1. It Won't Turn On
If you add water to the sump pit and nothing happens, check the power first. If power isn't the issue, the motor may have failed.
2. It Hums but Doesn't Pump
A humming sound without water moving usually means the motor is running, but the impeller is jammed or damaged.
3. It Keeps Tripping the Breaker
Frequent breaker trips often signal overheating, which can mean the motor is wearing out.
4. There's a Burning Smell
An electrical odor is a serious warning sign. Turn the unit off immediately.
5. It Runs Constantly
If the pump won't shut off, the float switch may be stuck, or the motor may be struggling to function properly.
6. It's 7–10 Years Old
Most sump pumps last about 7–10 years. If yours is in that range, failure is more likely.
What causes a sump pump to burn out:
Age and normal wear
Running dry
Power surges
Heavy use during storms
Clogged or frozen discharge lines
If you suspect burnout, immediate replacement is often the safest solution—especially before spring storms hit.
Spring Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist
One way to keep your New Jersey home safe from water damage this spring is to practice good maintenance. Testing your pump before the rainy season is your first line of defense against damage. Here are six checks you can do right now:
Test the pump with a water test.
Clean debris from the pit.
Check the float movement.
Inspect the discharge line outside.
Test backup battery (if installed).
Consider installing a water alarm for early warning.
Know When to Call in the A.J. Perri Pros
As a homeowner, you have the knowledge to do your own home maintenance. However, you should call a professional if:
Your pump frequently trips the breaker.
Your pump fails the water test.
You have rust or corrosion on the pump.
You hear strange grinding noises.
Your sump pump is nearing the 7–10-year mark.
You want to upgrade to a battery backup system.
Our technicians are highly skilled in sump pump installation and replacement. If you want to know why your sump pump is not working, our team can quickly diagnose the issue and recommend the right solution.
Schedule your sump pump inspection with A.J. Perri today and protect your home before the next heavy rainfall.