The battery backup sump pump system may beep for a number of reasons. The LCD screen on the monitor will indicate what is causing the beep. Using the up and down arrows on the monitor scroll to see the current notification. The most common reason for the beep is a low 9 volt battery in the monitor, replace it with a new one and the beeping will stop.

The sump pump may not run while it rains unless there is enough water accumulated below the concrete floor. Major rain events, spring thaw and multi-day rain are the most common periods that a sump pump will operate.

A constant low humming sound may indicate that the sump pump is trying to run and is having difficulty moving the water. The most common cause is an obstructed discharge pipe outside. Either the discharge pipe is frozen or clogged. Check the discharge pipe for obstructions. The other common cause is a clogged impeller on the sump pump. Remove the basin lid and inspect for excess build up of sand, silt or slug. If you find a build up in the basin, the pumps and basin will need to be cleaned to solve the problem.

If there is ground water present on the floor regardless of a sump pump system the most common cause is a weak point in the home's footings. The water will find the path of least resistance into your home. The solution is to have perimeter drainage piping installed to the affected area below the slab to collect the water and divert it to the sump pump before it reaches the surface. Some homes require the entire basement to be piped around the perimeter to a sump pump in high flooding areas.

The sump pump monitor will go dark during a power outage to conserve battery power. The monitor has a 9 volt battery installed to store notifications for the occupant once the power is restored. You can press any button on the monitor and the screen will light back up for you to review. Once the power is restored, the monitor will light up continuously as before.

It should be checked and cleaned annually. The sump pump system requires an inspection to ensure there is no build up of sand, silt or sludge which could cause the pumps to clog. Also the various float switches, wires and piping should be inspected for any damage, clogs or leaks. Sump pumps are a safety device, and like all safety devices they need to work when you need them most. Regular maintenance is a must to ensure your home stays dry.

No. The sump pump is designed to prevent ground water flooding only. Water that accumulates on the surface of your concrete floor from a plumbing pipe bursting, or a crack in the foundation wall will not be mitigated by a sump pump. A floor drain, or a foundation crack repair will be necessary to solve these problems.

10-15 years. A properly installed sump pump system, with regular maintenance should last 10-15 years. If your area is high in iron the system may not last as long as the iron can cause premature wear on the impellers.

The backup pump is like a canary in the coal mine. If it operates while the power is on it is an indicator to check the system. The primary pump, during normal operation, should maintain the water level on its own. The most common cause of this is the primary float switch is stuck. The primary pump may otherwise be malfunctioning and should be inspected as soon as possible. Fortunately the backup pump has the capability of keeping the home dry for an extended period of time. So if you cannot have the pumps looked at because you’re away from home, the basement will remain dry.