Sump pump failing help, please?

Question

I have a lot of water problems in my old partial concrete and dirt floor basement. Sump pumps only last about a year, then I have to replace it. Put a brand new sump pump in yesterday and had a basement full of water this morning. All I have to do is touch the sump pump and it starts pumping. I need a good sump pump that will stand up to dirt and salt water (water softner). Please help

Thanks

Answer 1

Replace the mechanical float switch and linkage with a sealed ball switch type. It is attached to a cord and completely sealed. They are pretty cheap and easy to install.

Answer 2

My previous job was for 15 years working for a pump repair shop so I`ve seen them all.  The make that I like above all others is Zoeller.  They are made in Louisville Ky and are by far a superior product (in my opinion)  I have a model 53 Zoeller in my own basement.  

The part of the pump that takes the greatest amount of abuse is the switch (obviously) If your sump pit is deep enough (30 inches or greater) Zoeller does offer an attachment to their switch that allows you to adjust the vertical turn on height of the pump.  This allows the pump to displace more water each time it turns on therefore cycling less often and in theory allowing your switch to last longer.

Salt water from a water softener will not harm the pump.

Answer 3

i got ome at lowe s  i pume irrigation water through it  it works great  it sounds like your float switch is bad  have you considered installing a 2nd one with the float a little higher so when the first fails you have a back up