Sump Pump Installation and Repair
A sump pump helps protect basements and crawl spaces by removing water that collects in a sump pit before it can flood. R&L Plumbing provides sump pump installation and repair across San Francisco and the East Bay, including new pumps, replacements, repairs, and battery backup systems.
If you’re finding water but aren’t sure whether it’s groundwater or a plumbing problem, our water leak detection service can help find the source.
| Situation | What we’d recommend |
|---|---|
| Basement or crawl space prone to water | New sump pump installation |
| Pump running constantly or not at all | Diagnostic and repair |
| Worried about power outages during storms | Battery backup sump pump |
| Pump has repeated problems | Consider repair or replacement |
What Are the Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Attention?
Watch for:
- A pump that doesn’t turn on when there’s water in the pit
- A pump that runs constantly or cycles more than usual
- Unusual grinding, rattling, or other noises
- Water that isn’t draining from the pit properly
- Visible damage, corrosion, or repeated pump problems
If the pump isn’t working properly, it’s better to find out before the next stretch of heavy rain.
Standard vs. Battery Backup Sump Pumps
A standard sump pump runs on your home’s electrical system. A battery backup system can keep pumping if the power goes out, which can be especially useful when heavy rain and outages happen at the same time.
Whether you need a backup depends on the property, how much water the sump receives, and the risk of losing power during wet weather. We can look at the existing setup and explain the options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my sump pump needs to be replaced instead of repaired?
It depends on the pump’s condition and what’s wrong with it. A repair may make sense for an isolated problem, while repeated failures or a badly worn pump may make replacement the better option.
Do I need a battery backup sump pump?
If your property is in an area that tends to flood and storms typically cause power outages, a battery backup system may be worth the investment. It can keep your pump running if the power goes out.
How often should a sump pump be tested?
It’s a good idea to test it periodically and before the rainy season. A basic test can confirm that the pump turns on and moves water out of the pit properly.
Why does my sump pump run constantly?
There are several possible causes, including a stuck float switch, a faulty check valve, heavy water entering the pit, or a pump that isn’t sized properly for the amount of water it needs to move. We can inspect the system and find the cause.
Protect Your Basement Before the Next Storm
Whether you need a new pump, a repair, or a battery backup upgrade, we can inspect the system and help make sure it’s ready when you need it.