Henco Plumbing Services is proud to serve Vancouver and communities across Oregon and Washington with dependable plumbing, HVAC, and electrical solutions. As fall rains return to the Pacific Northwest, one of the most important yet overlooked systems in your home is your sump pump. When working properly, it keeps your basement dry, protects your foundation, and prevents costly water damage during the region’s heavy downpours.
At Henco, we know that homeowners across Portland, Salem, and Vancouver face unique challenges during the rainy season. Clay-heavy soil, fluctuating water tables, and aging drainage systems can all lead to flooding—even in homes that haven’t had problems before. Now is the perfect time to check your sump pump and ensure it’s ready to handle months of wet weather ahead.
Why Your Sump Pump Matters in the Pacific Northwest
From late fall through early spring, Oregon and Washington see some of the wettest weather in the country. It’s not uncommon for a single storm system to drop several inches of rain in a weekend. Without a functioning sump pump, that water has nowhere to go but into your basement or crawl space.
A sump pump’s job is simple: it collects groundwater or storm runoff that seeps toward your home’s foundation and pumps it safely away from the property. When it fails, even a small issue—like a stuck float switch or a clogged discharge line—can lead to flooding in a matter of hours.
Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Attention
Before the next big rainstorm hits, watch for these early warning signs that your sump pump might not be ready for action:
- Unusual noises: Grinding, rattling, or gurgling sounds can signal worn-out components or debris in the pump.
- Frequent cycling: If your pump turns on and off repeatedly, the float switch may be stuck or improperly adjusted.
- Pump won't turn on: This can be a problem with the power supply, debris build-up, or the unit's age.
- Slow drainage: Water remaining in the pit after the pump runs could mean a clog or discharge line blockage.
- Vibrations or shaking: Excess vibration can indicate a bent impeller or imbalance inside the pump.
- Visible rust or corrosion: Corrosion can weaken key parts and eventually cause total failure.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to schedule sump pump maintenance or replacement with Henco before the next storm season ramps up.
How to Test Your Sump Pump Before Heavy Rain
A quick test can confirm whether your sump pump is ready to handle incoming water. You can do this in just a few minutes:
- Locate the sump pit—usually in the basement or crawl space.
- Fill the pit with a few buckets of water until the float rises.
- Watch for activation—the pump should start automatically and drain the water quickly.
- Verify discharge flow outside your home to ensure the water is being directed away from the foundation.
If your sump pump doesn’t start or runs sluggishly, contact Henco Plumbing Services right away. We’ll perform a complete inspection, clean the pump, and verify that the discharge line is clear.
Common Causes of Sump Pump Failure
Even high-quality systems can fail if not properly maintained. Some of the most frequent causes include:
1. Power Outages
During major storms, power failures are common—and unfortunately, that’s when you need your sump pump most. Installing a battery backup system or water-powered backup pump ensures protection even when the lights go out.
2. Clogged Intake or Discharge Lines
Leaves, silt, or small stones can clog the intake screen or discharge pipe, stopping water flow. Regular cleaning keeps everything running smoothly.
3. Switch or Float Problems
The float switch activates the pump when water reaches a certain level. If it sticks, the pump won’t turn on, leading to flooding.
4. Improper Installation or Sizing
A pump that’s too small can’t handle heavy rainfall. Conversely, an oversized unit may cycle too frequently, causing premature wear. Henco’s licensed plumbers can size and install your system properly to match your home’s needs.
5. Old Age
Most sump pumps last 7–10 years with regular maintenance. If yours is approaching that range—or you can’t remember when it was installed—it may be time for an upgrade.
Proactive Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Keeping your sump pump in peak condition doesn’t take much time, but it does require consistency. Here’s what Henco recommends:
- Test the pump quarterly, especially before fall and spring storms.
- Clean the pit of any dirt, debris, or small stones that might clog the system.
- Inspect the power source—make sure the pump is plugged into a grounded outlet and protected by a GFCI circuit.
- Check the discharge line for ice, leaves, or obstructions outside your home.
- Listen for strange sounds or vibrations during operation.
Taking these small steps helps prevent the kind of water damage that can lead to major repair bills later.
Professional Sump Pump Inspection and Service
While homeowners can perform basic testing and cleaning, certain tasks are best left to professionals. A Henco Plumbing Services technician will:
- Inspect the pump’s impeller, check valve, and discharge system
- Test float operation and electrical connections
- Verify proper drainage slope and discharge direction
- Assess whether a backup system is needed for your property
- Recommend repairs or replacement if your pump is nearing end-of-life
Our licensed plumbers serve both Oregon and Washington, offering same-day service, flat-rate pricing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We make it easy to protect your home from flooding—without surprise costs or long wait times.
Why Basement Flooding Is So Common in the Pacific Northwest
Homes throughout the I-5 corridor, from Eugene to Tacoma, are built in areas with fluctuating groundwater levels. Add in heavy rainfall, compacted soil, and aging drainage infrastructure, and it’s a recipe for frequent flooding.
Even homes on slight slopes can experience pooling around foundations when gutters overflow or storm drains back up. That’s why a properly installed and maintained sump pump is one of the smartest investments a Pacific Northwest homeowner can make.
Keep Your Basement Dry This Rainy Season
When the skies open up, your sump pump becomes your first line of defense against basement flooding. Don’t wait until it fails—get ahead of the storm with professional maintenance or installation from Henco Plumbing Services.
Whether you need a new pump, a backup power system, or emergency repair, Henco is ready to help. Our local experts understand the challenges of Northwest weather and provide same-day service across Vancouver, Portland, Salem, and nearby communities.
Need reliable sump pump service before the next storm? Call Henco Plumbing Services in Vancouver today to schedule your inspection and stay protected all season long.
Trusted Plumbing Experts Across Oregon and Washington
From Seattle to Salem, Henco Plumbing Services helps homeowners protect their basements, foundations, and peace of mind. With flat-rate pricing, guaranteed satisfaction, and decades of local experience, we’re the name Northwest homeowners trust when it matters most.
Keep your home dry and worry-free — schedule your sump pump service with Henco Plumbing Services today.
