Last Updated on April 30, 2023
If you’re hearing gurgling noises from your sump pump, it can be quite annoying and worrisome. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce the sound and prevent any potential problems.
Try upgrading your swing check valve to a spring-loaded one, which allows water to flow more evenly and stops gurgling.
You can also adjust the pump switch height to stop running before emptying the basin. Adding a weep hole to the discharge pipe can help equalize pressure and prevent water from flowing back down the pipe, causing gurgling sounds.
Clearing any obstructions in the discharge pipe and checking the slope and diameter of the pipe can also improve water flow and reduce gurgling.
Also, insulating the discharge line, adding a fitted basin cover, installing a water hammer arrestor, and an anti-vibration pad can also help reduce noise.
Let’s dive into how to stop that pesky sump pump gurgling for good. We’ll discuss all the options so you can return to enjoying peace and quiet.
How to Stop Sump Pump Gurgling: Here’s What You Need to Do?
Struggling with the gurgles of your sump pump? Try these easy steps to lessen that pesky sump pump noise and make your home a more peaceful paradise.
1. Replace the Check Valve
One effective solution is to replace the standard swing check valve with a spring-loaded check valve to stop the sump pump from gurgling. This type of check valve allows water to flow more smoothly through the plumbing, which can reduce gurgling sounds.
A spring-loaded check valve uses a spring to hold the valve open when water is flowing through it. When the flow of water stops, the spring closes the valve to prevent any backflow.
The pump can operate more efficiently by installing a spring-loaded check valve, reducing noise and increasing longevity.
2. Adjust the Pump Switch Height
If the sump pump makes a sound similar to sucking liquid through a straw, adjusting the pump switch height can help reduce the noise. The pump switch is responsible for turning the sump pump on and off when the water level in the basin reaches a certain point.
If the switch is set too low, the pump will continue running until the basin is completely empty, causing the noise. Raising the switch height allows the pump to turn off before the basin is empty, reducing the sound.
3. Add a Weep Hole
Another solution to prevent sump pump gurgling is to add a weep hole to the drain pipe. A weep hole is a small hole in the pipe that allows air to enter and equalize the pressure, preventing backflow and creating a gurgling sound.
When a sump pump discharges the water, it creates a vacuum that can cause the water to flow back down, causing the noise. A weep hole allows air to enter the pipe and equalize the pressure, preventing the water from flowing back down.
4. Clear Any Particles in the Discharge Pipe
Cleaning the discharge pipe is another solution to stopping the sump pump gurgling. An obstruction in the pipe can cause water to flow back down, creating noise.
To clear the debris, turn off the sump pump and use a plumbing snake to remove any obstructions in the pipe. To prevent noise, it is essential to ensure that the pipe is clear of any debris before operating the sump pump.
5. Inspect the Discharge Pipe Slope
A poorly sloped discharge pipe can cause sump pump gurgling. The slope of the discharge pipe should have a proper slope to prevent water from flowing backward and making noise.
The slope should be between 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch per foot to allow gravity to pull the water away from the sump pump. If the pipe slope is inadequate, adjust the pipe’s angle or install a new pipe to achieve the proper slope.
6. Increase the Discharge Pipe Diameter
A narrow discharge pipe can cause sump pumps to gurgle. To increase water flow and reduce noise, consider increasing the diameter of the pipe.
Water flows more smoothly through a bigger pipe because it can handle more water. The recommended discharge size for sump pumps is 1.5 inches. If your pipe is too narrow, you may want to increase its diameter.
7. Insulate the Discharge Line
If the discharge line is exposed to cold temperatures, insulating the line can help prevent sump pump gurgling. Cold temperatures can cause the water in the discharge line to condense and move back down, creating noise.
The water temperature remains warm by insulating the line, preventing the water from condensing and flowing back down. Insulation can be applied to the outside of the pipe or installed inside the pipe.
8. Add a Fitted Basin Cover
Installing a fitted basin cover is an easy and effective way of minimizing noise, vibration, and the possibility of unwanted pests or debris getting in.
For older pumps with exposed basins, seal up that ruckus-maker with some plywood secured by rubber gaskets. Then relax, knowing it’s securely silenced. Now you can enjoy peace & quiet inside your home again.
9. Install a Water Hammer Arrestor
Water hammering is a common problem that occurs when a valve suddenly closes, causing a shock wave that results in gurgling humming pipes. You can install a water hammer arrestor to reduce this problem.
It’s a device that absorbs the shock of water pressure and reduces noise in the plumbing system. The water hammer arrestor consists of an air chamber that compresses the air, reducing the velocity of the water and preventing the hammering noise.
10. Install an Anti-Vibration Pad
A sump pump needs to be properly secured or it can start vibrating, creating an unpleasant gurgling sound. Luckily, you don’t have to live with the racket.
Installing an anti-vibration pad on your pump will do wonders to quiet down its operation and prolong its life. This nifty little device is made from materials like rubber or cork that absorb shock and keep irritating vibrations at bay.
11. Check the Pump’s Capacity
An undersized sump pump may not be able to handle the amount of water in the sump pit, causing gurgling. Checking the pump’s capacity is crucial, as it helps you to determine if the pump is the right size for your sump pit.
If the pump is too small to handle the water, you will need to consider upgrading to a larger pump that can effectively manage the water level in your pit. This will not only help reduce gurgling but also prevent flooding.
12. Install a Backup Sump Pump
Having a backup sump pump installed in your basement can be a lifesaver in case the primary pump fails. Also, it helps to prevent gurgling caused by an overloaded sump pump.
A backup pump kicks in when the primary pump fails, thus ensuring that the water is continually being pumped out of the sump pit.
This reduces the load on the primary pump, preventing it from becoming overloaded and causing gurgling noise. A backup sump pump can help protect your basement from flooding and water damage while keeping your sump pump running smoothly.
Can a damaged impeller cause the sump pump to gurgle?
A damaged impeller in a sump pump can cause gurgling noises. This is because a damaged impeller may not spin smoothly or efficiently, leading to irregular water flow and turbulence, which can result in gurgling sounds.
Impellers can become damaged due to wear and tear over time or accumulation of debris. Chipped, cracked, or clogged impeller blades can disrupt the normal flow of water, causing it to struggle to pass through and causing gurgling sounds.
If the impeller is not properly aligned or there are issues with the motor that drives it, it can also result in gurgling noises. Inspecting and maintaining sump pumps regularly is essential to avoid impeller damage and other mechanical issues that can cause gurgling noises.
Can sump pump gurgling damage the pump?
While sump pump gurgling is typically not damaging to the pump itself, prolonged or excessive gurgling can potentially cause damage to the pump over time.
Gurgling is often indicative of an issue with the pump or sump pit that should be addressed to ensure proper operation and prevent potential damage.
When a sump pump gurgles, it typically means that the water is not flowing properly through the system. This could be due to a clog in either the pump or the discharge pipe.
When water is not properly flowing, it can cause the pump to work harder to remove it from the sump pit. This increased workload can lead to the pump overheating or burning out over time.
Is it normal for a sump pump to make noise?
It’s common for sump pumps to emit low-humming noises during daily operations. This is due to the motor and impeller inside the pump that removes water from the sump pit. However, if the pump humbles louder than usual, it may indicate a problem.
A louder hum could mean the pump is experiencing difficulty moving water through the discharge pipe, potentially due to a clog or a worn-out impeller. Another indicator of a malfunctioning sump pump could be if it is not pumping water, despite the noise.
Stop Your Sump Pump From Gurgling: Take Action & Ensure Home Protection
Sump pump gurgling can be quite frustrating, but it is preventable. With the various steps outlined above, such as replacing check valves, adjusting pump switches, and clearing debris in the discharge pipe, you can keep your sump pump from gurgling.
Remember always to keep your sump pump well-maintained to ensure its longevity and reliability and provide the protection you need for your home.
Don’t let sump pump gurgling be your problem. Take the right approach, and enjoy peace of mind and a comfortable, dry basement.
