Sump pump not working or basement flooding during spring melt
Common Causes
- Pump motor burned out (average life 7-12 years)
- Float switch failure causing pump not to activate
- Frozen or blocked discharge line
- Power outage during heavy melt event (no backup)
- Pump undersized for the volume of groundwater during spring
Licensed professional required. Do not attempt this yourself — improper work can cause injury, property damage, or void your insurance.
When to Call a Pro
- Sump pit is filling with water but the pump is not activating
- Pump is running continuously without lowering the water level
- Pump is making grinding or rattling noises
- No water in the pit in a home that should have one (may need a pump installed)
Alberta Context
Spring snowmelt in Central Alberta (typically mid-March through April) is the highest risk period for sump pump failures. A 1/2 HP submersible sump pump with a battery backup system is strongly recommended in any Innisfail home with a basement. The Town of Innisfail experiences significant melt events due to flat terrain and clay soils. Insurance companies often require documentation of a working sump pump to maintain basement flooding coverage.