The best way to stop a frozen pipe from becoming a bigger issue in your home is to know the signs. Here are a few things to look out for:

Limited Water

If the water is coming out slower and with less pressure than it normally does from your faucet, shower head, or toilets, you might have a frozen pipe. 

Frost or Bulging

If your pipes are visible and they have a layer of frost on them or appear to be bulging, these are other good indicators that you have a frozen pipe issue.   

Gurgling Sounds

Gurgling is a sign of a blockage of some kind. A frozen pipe can prevent air and water from freely flowing through the pipe resulting in trapped air or gas bubbles.

Strange Odors

If there are strange smells coming from your drains, it could mean that a frozen pipe or other blockage is backing up the transportation of sewage from your home.

Condensation 

Condensation is a sign that the air outside the pipe is warmer and more humid than the water inside the pipe. This isn’t that big of an issue in the short term but can cause damage to the pipe or anything below the pipe in the long term.

Cracks

Cracks in a pipe are an indicator that the pipe may have been frozen already. Even if it doesn’t appear to be leaking, you should still have an experienced plumber take a look at it.

If your sump pump is under 10 years old and it’s experiencing the following common problems, we recommend having it repaired. Armor Air’s technicians can come take a look and diagnose the issue with accuracy and efficiency.

Pump Runs Continuously

One of the most common problems we see is a pump running continuously, and the most common diagnosis it a problem with the float switch. Call Armor Air to take a look and either fix or repair this crucial piece of equipment.

Pump Turns On and Off Too Often

Another common sump pump issue is the pump turning on and off frequently. This could mean that some water is coming back into the sump from the discharge valve. 

Shuts Off Too Early

If the pump is shutting off before all of the water in the sump has been discharged, there are a few possible causes. The float switch is either out of alignment or needs to be replaced. When the pump shuts off too early it can also be caused by the pump overheating, or it is not receiving direct electrical flow.

The best way to make sure your sump pump keeps your basement dry is by keeping it on a routine maintenance schedule. There are a few things you should do on a quarterly basis including:

• Unplugging the pump and emptying the sump of standing water
• Removing debris from the sump
• Performing a stress test on the float switch by pouring water into the sump and seeing if it activates the pump.

An annual maintenance check will be a little more intensive, so it’s better to leave that to the professionals. When an Armor Air plumbing professional visits for a maintenance check they will:

1. Unplug the pump and remove it for evaluation 
2. Clean the pump inlet screen
3. Lubricate pump bearings if needed
4. Check sump basin for debris
5. Reinstall the pump and plug it back in
6. Stress test the float switch 
7. Go outside and ensure the discharge valve is unobstructed

Get exclusive offers on sump pump maintenance and other annually recommended services with Armor Air’s Shield Protection Plan.

Your sump pump is perhaps the most underrated appliance in your home. It keeps your foundation dry during heavy rains, and in doing so, prevents hundreds to thousands of dollars in water damage each year. Make sure it continues to do the job right with expert sump pump repair, installation, and maintenance from Armor Air! Contacts us today to schedule an appointment.