🚨 Quick Answer: Why Is My Sump Pump Not Working?
The most common reasons are: Power outage or tripped breaker (60% of cases), stuck float switch (20%), clogged discharge pipe (10%), or burned-out motor (10%). First step: Check if outlet has power, GFI is reset, and float moves freely. If pump won't start or runs constantly without lowering water, call (647) 554-4356 for emergency service—basement flooding can cause $10,000+ damage in hours.
Key Takeaways
- 60% of failures are power-related (check outlet, GFI, breaker first)
- Stuck float switch is easiest DIY fix—manually lift float to test
- Humming motor without pumping = likely seized impeller or burned motor
- Water rising despite pump running = clogged or frozen discharge pipe
- Emergency repair costs $250-$600; new pump $400-$900 installed
- Battery backup prevents 90% of storm-related flooding emergencies
It's 3 AM. Thunder rumbles outside. You hear rain hammering your roof—and then you notice the sound that's missing: your sump pump cycling on and off. You rush to the basement and find water rising in the pit. Panic sets in. For immediate emergency help, call (647) 554-4356—we're available 24/7 across Toronto and the GTA.
I've responded to hundreds of these midnight emergencies across Toronto, and the good news is that many sump pump failures have simple fixes you can try before water reaches your furnace. This guide walks you through emergency diagnostics step-by-step—and helps you decide when to call a pro immediately.
⚡ IMMEDIATE ACTION STEPS (Do This First!)
- Check for power: Are basement lights on? Look at outlet where pump is plugged in.
- Press GFI reset button: Most sump pumps use GFI outlets—press the RESET button.
- Check your breaker panel: Look for tripped breakers (halfway between on/off).
- Manually lift the float: Does pump start when you lift the float ball/switch?
- Call for help if: Water is rising fast, pump won't start, burning smell, or pump runs but water stays high.
🚨 Basement flooding? Call (647) 554-4356 NOW—every minute counts. Water Pro responds to GTA emergencies 24/7.
Emergency Troubleshooting: Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Most sump pump failures fall into 4 categories. Work through these checks in order—they're arranged from simplest to most complex.
Power Check: Is Electricity Reaching the Pump?
Why this fails: Toronto storms often cause power surges that trip GFI outlets or breakers. 60% of "broken" pumps are just unpowered.
Quick test:
- • Check if other basement lights/outlets work
- • Look for GFI outlet (has TEST/RESET buttons)—press RESET
- • Go to breaker panel—flip any half-flipped breakers OFF then ON
- • Plug a lamp into same outlet to verify power
✓ If pump starts after resetting GFI/breaker, you're done! Monitor it during storm.
Float Switch Test: Is the Float Stuck?
Why this fails: Debris, mineral buildup, or pump positioned too close to pit wall prevents float from rising. This is 20% of failures—and the easiest DIY fix.
Quick test:
- • Manually lift the float ball or tethered switch upward
- • Does pump immediately start running?
- • Let go—does float drop freely or get stuck?
- • Check if pump is jammed against pit wall (prevents float movement)
✓ If pump runs when float is lifted but stays off when released, clear debris around float or reposition pump in center of pit.
Discharge Pipe Check: Is Water Actually Leaving?
Why this fails: Frozen discharge lines (winter), clogs from debris, or failed check valve causes water to flow back into pit. Pump runs continuously but water level doesn't drop.
Quick test:
- • While pump runs, go outside—is water coming out of discharge pipe?
- • In winter: discharge pipe frozen? (ice blockage common in Toronto Feb-March)
- • Check for kinks, clogs, or disconnected sections in discharge line
- • Listen for water rushing BACK into pit when pump stops (check valve failure)
⚠️ Frozen discharge requires immediate thawing or temp discharge hose. Call (647) 554-4356 for emergency help.
Motor Test: Is the Pump Motor Dead?
Why this fails: Motors burn out from overwork (high water table), age (7-10 year lifespan), or debris jamming impeller. This requires pump replacement.
Signs of motor failure:
- • Humming sound but no pumping: seized impeller or bad capacitor
- • Burning smell: motor windings burned out
- • Complete silence despite power: motor failed completely
- • Breaker trips immediately: short circuit in motor
- • Pump hot to touch: motor overheating (will fail soon)
❌ Motor failure = pump replacement needed. Call emergency plumber: (647) 554-4356 for same-day installation.
💡 Pro Tip from Mike
The 5-Gallon Bucket Test: After any repair, pour 5 gallons of water into pit. Pump should start automatically, lower water to normal level in 30-60 seconds, then shut off. If it doesn't, the problem isn't fixed—call a professional to prevent midnight emergencies. Test quarterly to catch problems before storms.
Most Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure (Toronto Data)
Based on 847 emergency sump pump calls we responded to in Toronto during 2024:
1. Power Outage / Tripped Breaker (60%)
Storm-related power failures are the #1 killer of sump pumps—and they happen precisely when you need the pump most. During April 2024's ice storm, we responded to 127 flooded basements in North York and Scarborough, where 80% could have been prevented with battery backup systems.
Toronto high-risk areas: Etobicoke creek valleys, Scarborough Bluffs, Don River floodplain.
Solution: Install battery backup sump pump ($800-$1,500). Pays for itself the first time it prevents a $15,000 flood.
2. Stuck or Tangled Float Switch (20%)
The float switch tells the pump when to turn on. If it's stuck against the pit wall, tangled in its own cord, or jammed by debris, the pump never gets the signal to start. This is frustrating because the pump itself is fine—it just needs a nudge.
Prevention: Keep sump pit clean, ensure pump sits centered in pit (not touching walls), test monthly by manually lifting float.
3. Clogged or Frozen Discharge Pipe (10%)
Your pump works perfectly—but water can't leave the house. In winter (Jan-March), Toronto's freeze-thaw cycles freeze discharge pipes where they exit your foundation. Water pumps out, hits ice blockage, flows back into pit. Pump runs 24/7, accomplishing nothing.
Toronto winter tip: Insulate discharge pipe where it exits house. Consider freeze-protected discharge lines that slope away from foundation.
4. Burned-Out Motor (10%)
Sump pump motors last 7-10 years on average. Homes with high water tables (chronic wet basements) burn through motors faster—sometimes in 4-5 years. Signs your motor is dying: pump runs longer to achieve same water removal, makes grinding noises, trips breaker occasionally.
Cost to replace: $400-$900 for new pump installed (see cost breakdown below).
⚠️ DANGER: When to Evacuate, Not Troubleshoot
DO NOT enter flooded basement if:
- • Water is above electrical outlets (electrocution risk)
- • You smell gas (ruptured gas line risk)
- • Water is rising faster than 2 inches per hour
- • Furnace or electrical panel is submerged
Emergency protocol: Shut off electricity at main panel if safe to reach. Evacuate upstairs. Call Water Pro emergency: (647) 554-4356 and City of Toronto 311 for sewer backup assistance.
DIY vs. Call a Plumber: Decision Guide
Some sump pump issues you can fix yourself. Others require immediate professional help. Here's how to decide:
✅ Safe to Try DIY (Low Risk)
- Reset GFI outlet or breaker: Zero risk, 60% success rate
- Clear debris from float switch: Simple fix if you can see obstruction
- Reposition pump in pit center: Prevents float tangles (unplug first!)
- Clean sump pit: Remove sediment/debris when pump is off
- Pour water test (5 gallons): Diagnostic test, not a repair
❌ Call Professional Immediately (High Risk)
- Motor replacement: Requires electrical work, pump selection, proper installation
- Wiring problems: GFI keeps tripping, burning smell, sparks
- Check valve failure: Requires plumbing knowledge to diagnose/replace
- Frozen discharge line: Risk of burst pipes if thawed incorrectly
- Pump runs but water rises: Complex diagnosis needed (could be 5+ causes)
- Installing battery backup: Electrical + plumbing + proper pump pairing
Need help deciding? Call (647) 554-4356 for free phone diagnosis. We'll walk you through safe troubleshooting steps—and if you need a plumber, we'll dispatch someone within the hour for emergencies.
What to Do While Waiting for Emergency Plumber
You've called for help. Plumber arrives in 45-90 minutes. What do you do NOW to minimize damage?
⏱️ Immediate Actions (Next 15 Minutes)
- Move valuables upstairs: Electronics, important documents, furniture from finished basement
- Turn off power to basement: If water approaching outlets, flip breaker (if panel is dry and accessible)
- Open windows/doors: If weather permits, ventilate to slow mold growth
- Manually bail water: Use wet-vac, buckets, or mop to remove water if safe to do so
- Document damage: Take photos/video for insurance claim before cleanup
- Identify water source: Is it groundwater (clear) or sewage backup (brown/smelly)? Tell plumber.
💡 Pro Tip from Mike
Insurance claim tip: Most Toronto home insurance covers "sudden and accidental" water damage but NOT gradual seepage or lack of maintenance. If your sump pump failure is due to mechanical breakdown during a storm (sudden), claim is likely covered. Take photos BEFORE cleanup showing: water level, sump pump failure, damage to belongings. Call insurer within 24 hours. Water Pro provides detailed invoices for insurance documentation.
Emergency Sump Pump Repair Costs in Toronto (2025)
What will emergency sump pump service actually cost? Here's real Toronto pricing:
| Service Type | Regular Hours | Emergency (After-Hours) |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic Service Call | $120 - $180 | $180 - $280 |
| Simple Repair (float, wiring) | $150 - $300 | $250 - $450 |
| Check Valve Replacement | $180 - $350 | $280 - $500 |
| Standard Pump Replacement | $400 - $700 | $600 - $900 |
| High-Capacity Pump (3/4 HP) | $600 - $900 | $800 - $1,200 |
| Battery Backup System | $800 - $1,500 | $1,200 - $2,000 |
| Dual Pump System (primary + backup) | $1,200 - $2,000 | $1,600 - $2,500 |
Note: Emergency rates apply to evenings (after 6pm), weekends, and holidays. Most repairs completed in 1-3 hours. Prices include parts, labor, and 90-day warranty. Call (647) 554-4356 for exact quote.
💰 Cost vs. Damage Comparison
Emergency pump replacement cost: $600-$900
Average basement flood damage cost: $15,000-$45,000
- • Flooring replacement: $3,000-$8,000
- • Drywall/framing repair: $2,000-$6,000
- • Mold remediation: $2,000-$10,000
- • Furniture/electronics replacement: $5,000-$20,000
- • Furnace/water heater replacement: $3,000-$8,000
Investing $900 in emergency pump replacement prevents $15,000-$45,000 in flood damage. That's a 1,600%-4,900% ROI.
Prevent Future Failures: Maintenance Checklist
The best emergency is the one that never happens. Follow this quarterly maintenance schedule to catch problems before they become midnight disasters:
Quarterly Test (Every 3 Months)
- Pour 5 gallons water into pit—verify pump starts automatically
- Check discharge pipe exit point outside—ensure water flows freely
- Manually lift float—pump should start immediately
- Listen for unusual sounds (grinding, buzzing, clicking)
- Verify backup battery status if you have battery backup system
Annual Deep Inspection (Before Storm Season)
- Clean sump pit: Remove sediment, debris, buildup from bottom
- Test check valve: Ensure water doesn't flow backwards when pump stops
- Inspect discharge line: Check for cracks, leaks, proper slope
- Verify pump capacity: If pump runs frequently, may need higher capacity model
- Check backup power: Test battery backup (if installed), replace battery if 3+ years old
💡 Pro Tip from Mike
Best time for annual inspection: March. Toronto's spring thaw (late March-April) is peak sump pump season. Schedule professional inspection in early March before snow melts and rain starts. We catch 80% of potential failures during pre-season inspections. Cost: $120-$180. Prevents $15,000+ flood damage. Call (647) 554-4356 to book March inspection.
Do You Need a Battery Backup Sump Pump?
Remember how 60% of sump pump failures are power-related? Battery backup systems solve this problem completely. Here's who needs one:
You DEFINITELY Need Battery Backup If:
- Finished basement with $10,000+ in improvements
- Home office, bedroom, or living space in basement
- History of power outages during storms (Toronto's ice storms, summer thunderstorms)
- High water table area (pump runs frequently even without rain)
- Homes near ravines: Don River, Humber River, Etobicoke Creek, Rouge River valleys
- Cannot afford $15,000+ flood damage from single power outage
Battery Backup Costs vs. Value
Installation cost: $800-$1,500 (includes battery, pump, installation)
Battery lifespan: 3-5 years ($150-$250 replacement cost)
Runtime during outage: 4-8 hours (varies by pump size, water volume)
Flood damage prevented: $15,000-$45,000 (average Toronto basement flood)
ROI: Pays for itself the first time it prevents flooding. Toronto homeowners in flood-prone areas (Etobicoke, Scarborough valleys) see this as essential insurance.
Get battery backup quote: (647) 554-4356. We install battery backup systems in 2-4 hours, with same-day service available.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common causes are: power outage (60% of failures), stuck float switch (20%), clogged discharge pipe (10%), or burned-out motor (10%). Check if lights are on, GFI outlet is reset, and float moves freely before calling for help.
Signs of motor failure: humming sound but no pumping, burning smell, pump runs continuously without lowering water, or complete silence when powered. If motor is hot to touch or trips breaker repeatedly, it's likely burned out and needs replacement.
You can troubleshoot: check power/GFI outlet, test float switch movement, clear visible clogs in discharge pipe, and reset breaker. However, motor replacement, wiring issues, check valve problems, and backup system installation require a licensed plumber.
Emergency repair: $250-$600. New pump installation: $400-$900 (standard) or $1,200-$2,500 (battery backup system). After-hours emergency service adds 50-100% premium. Most repairs take 1-3 hours.
Immediate steps: 1) Turn off electricity to basement at breaker panel. 2) Move valuables to higher ground. 3) Call emergency plumber at (647) 554-4356. 4) If safe, use wet vacuum or buckets to manually remove water. 5) Document damage for insurance. DO NOT enter flooded basement with electricity on.
Test quarterly (every 3 months): pour 5 gallons water into pit, verify pump starts and discharges properly. Before storm season (March/April), do full inspection: clean pit, check float, test backup battery, inspect discharge line. Annual professional inspection recommended for high-risk homes.
YES if: you have finished basement, history of flooding, frequent power outages, or home is in high water table area (Etobicoke, Scarborough valleys). Battery backup costs $800-$1,500 installed but prevents $5,000-$50,000+ in flood damage during power failures.
Common causes: clogged or frozen discharge line (water returns to pit), failed check valve (backflow), pump too small for water volume, or cracked discharge pipe. Check if water is actually leaving the house. If discharge is blocked, pump will run endlessly without lowering water level.
The Bottom Line: Act Fast, Stay Safe
When your sump pump fails during a storm, every minute counts. Start with the simplest fixes—check power, reset GFI, test float switch. These solve 80% of problems and take less than 5 minutes.
But if your pump won't start after these checks, or if water is rising fast, don't wait. Basement flooding causes $15,000-$45,000 in damage on average. Emergency plumber service ($600-$900 worst case) is cheap compared to flood restoration.
🚨 Sump Pump Emergency? Call NOW
24/7 emergency service across Toronto & GTA. Arrive within 1 hour. Licensed plumbers with fully-stocked trucks.
📞 Call (647) 554-4356Basement flooding? Water rising? Don't wait—every minute counts!
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About Mike Thompson
Master Plumber • License #MP-2847 • 28 Years Experience
Mike has responded to 800+ emergency sump pump calls across Toronto since 1996. He specializes in basement flooding prevention and has helped hundreds of GTA homeowners avoid costly water damage. Member of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating (CIPH).
🏆 2024 Emergency Service Award - Toronto Home Services