Sump Pump Not Working? | Lazer Home Services Des Moines

When heavy rain hits Des Moines, your sump pump not working becomes one of the most important pieces of equipment in your home. It’s your first line of defense against basement flooding and costly water damage. But what happens when it stops working right when you need it most?

Many homeowners discover their sump pump isn’t working only after they notice water in their basement or crawl space. Whether the unit won’t turn on, won’t stop running, or simply fails to pump water away, it can quickly turn into a stressful emergency. Thankfully, there are trained professionals in Des Moines who specialize in sump pump repair and installation  and they’re ready to help you protect your home.

At Lazer Home Services, we help homeowners throughout Iowa troubleshoot, fix, and replace sump pumps before damage sets in. In this blog, we’ll cover the most common sump pump issues, what causes them, and how our team can solve them fast.

Why Your Sump Pump Matters in Des Moines

In a city like Des Moines, with seasonal rainfall, melting snow, and water-prone soil, sump pumps are more than a convenience; they’re essential. Homes with basements or crawl spaces depend on sump pumps to remove water that collects in the sump pit. This water comes from ground seepage, heavy rain, or rising water tables. If not removed quickly, it can lead to mold growth, foundation cracks, and damage to flooring and stored belongings.

That’s why many residents search for terms like sump pump not working Des Moines, especially during or after a storm. Your sump pump may go unused for months, but the moment you need it  it has to work.

Signs Your Sump Pump Has Stopped Working

The signs of sump pump failure aren’t always obvious at first. You may notice water pooling in the corners of your basement or a musty odor in the air. Sometimes, the system appears to run, but water levels don’t decrease in the pit. Other times, the unit won’t start at all, even when the float rises.

If you hear strange noises, see rust or corrosion on the pump, or experience repeated circuit trips when the pump runs, those are all red flags. A sump pump that’s cycling non-stop or one that turns on and off in short bursts could also indicate mechanical or electrical problems.

To avoid bigger damage, it’s best to call Des Moines sump pump repair specialists at the first sign of trouble.

Common Reasons Sump Pumps Fail

One of the most common causes of sump pump failure is a stuck float switch. This float activates the pump when water rises, but it can become jammed or tangled, preventing the unit from turning on. Another frequent issue is a clogged discharge line  if the water has nowhere to go, the pump will shut down or back up.

Power failure is another major reason sump pumps stop working, especially during storms. Many homeowners aren’t aware that their sump pump relies entirely on electricity, and a blackout can disable it completely unless a backup battery or generator is in place.

Worn-out motors, aging systems, and improper installation are other contributing factors. Pumps over 7 to 10 years old are more likely to develop mechanical faults or become overwhelmed during high-volume water events. If your pump is due for an upgrade, sump pump installation might be the best next step.

What To Do If Your Sump Pump Fails

If your sump pump fails during a storm, the first step is to check the power source. Make sure the unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the pump hums but doesn’t move water, the float switch or impeller may be stuck. In some cases, a reset or cleaning may temporarily restore function.

But even if you manage a quick fix, it’s important to have the system inspected. A sump pump that fails once is more likely to fail again  and next time, the water damage might be worse. That’s why our Des Moines team recommends a full diagnostic check to assess the condition of your pump, the pit, the float switch, and the discharge pipe.

When you’re not sure what’s wrong or how to fix it safely, don’t wait. You can contact our team to schedule emergency service, and we’ll send a qualified technician to your home right away.

Des Moines Sump Pump Experts: How We Help

At Lazer Home Services, we understand that sump pump issues don’t follow a convenient schedule. That’s why our experts are trained to handle emergency calls and respond quickly, even during storms. We arrive with the tools and parts needed to repair most systems on-site, and we always explain your options before doing any work.

Our team doesn’t just patch problems, we investigate the root cause. If your pump is the wrong size for your home, installed at the wrong depth, or wired incorrectly, we’ll explain why it’s failing and how to fix it for good.

We also provide reliable upgrades for homeowners who want more protection, including battery backup systems that keep your sump pump running during a power outage. You can read more about our approach on the About Us page.

Emergency Repairs vs. Replacement: How to Decide

Sometimes a sump pump can be repaired easily with a float adjustment or valve cleaning. But if your unit is older, struggles to keep up, or has been repaired more than once, it may be time to consider a full replacement.

Newer sump pump systems are more efficient, quieter, and less prone to failure. We offer full replacement services, including the removal of the old system, installation of the new one, and testing to ensure it’s ready to protect your home.

If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons and help you make an informed decision. You can even review our recent recommendations for sump pumps not working in Des Moines to see how we help homeowners make the right choice for their situation.

Preventing Future Sump Pump Problems

Routine maintenance is key to preventing sump pump issues. Des Moines homeowners should schedule annual inspections before the rainy season to make sure everything is working correctly. This includes testing the float switch, clearing the pit, checking the discharge line, and inspecting the check valve.

At Lazer Home Services, we offer scheduled maintenance plans designed to catch small issues before they become major problems. We’ll inspect your system thoroughly, clean any buildup, and confirm that your pump is ready to handle the next downpour.

Maintenance is also the perfect time to talk about upgrades, backup systems, or installing a high-water alarm  all of which can give you more peace of mind. Explore our current offers and service discounts to save on scheduled service.

Protect Your Basement With Help From Lazer Home Services

Your sump pump is your last line of defense against basement flooding  and when it fails, the damage can be fast and costly. Don’t wait until you’re ankle-deep in water. If you’ve noticed any warning signs, or if your pump hasn’t been inspected in over a year, now is the time to act.

At Lazer Home Services, we’re here to help Des Moines homeowners stay safe, dry, and protected. Whether your sump pump needs a quick repair, a full replacement, or a simple tune-up, our experts are ready to respond with fast, friendly, and professional service.

Conclusion: Don’t Let a Faulty Sump Pump Put Your Home at Risk

A sump pump failure is one of those home problems that can escalate fast. One minute your basement is dry, the next it’s flooded and causing thousands in damage. That’s why acting early  at the first sign of trouble  makes all the difference. Whether your sump pump isn’t turning on, keeps running without stopping, or just doesn’t seem to move water efficiently, Des Moines homeowners can count on Lazer Home Services for expert help. We understand the urgency sump pump issues demand, and we’re committed to solving them quickly, safely, and permanently. Don’t gamble with your home’s foundation or indoor air quality. Let us inspect, repair, or replace your sump pump today  and keep water where it belongs: outside your home.

Why Choose Lazer Home Services for Sump Pump Help in Des Moines?

Des Moines homeowners trust Lazer Home Services because we combine years of hands-on experience with a customer-first approach that puts your safety and satisfaction first. Every sump pump repair or installation we complete is handled by a trained professional who understands both the technical aspects of the job and the importance of protecting your home. We show up on time, provide honest recommendations, and deliver long-term solutions backed by real results. Whether you’re calling us for emergency repairs during a storm or scheduling a routine inspection ahead of the rainy season, we bring the same level of care, clarity, and workmanship to every project. From start to finish, our team is committed to doing what’s best for you and your home  every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why did my sump pump suddenly stop working?

Sump pumps can fail for many reasons, including a stuck float switch, clogged discharge line, power failure, or a worn-out motor. If it stops working during heavy rain, it’s often due to electrical issues or an overwhelmed system.

What should I do if my basement is flooding?

First, check your sump pump to see if it’s running. If it’s not, avoid entering the flooded area  especially if there are exposed electrical components. Then, call a professional immediately to prevent further damage and restore drainage.

How do I know if my sump pump needs repair or replacement?

If your unit is older than 7–10 years, fails repeatedly, or can’t keep up with heavy water flow, replacement may be the better option. A professional inspection can help you decide the most cost-effective path forward.

Can I prevent sump pump problems in the future?

Yes. Annual maintenance, cleaning the sump pit, testing the float switch, and installing a battery backup can all reduce the risk of failure. Our team offers preventive care plans tailored to Iowa homes.

How quickly can you respond to sump pump emergencies?

We offer fast, responsive service to Des Moines residents  especially during storm season. Our trucks are stocked and our team is trained to diagnose and resolve most issues on the first visit. Just contact us and we’ll get to you as soon as possible.