A plumber is usually the best person to work on your sump pump. However, a handyman with sump pump experience may also be able to help with minor repairs and maintenance, like unclogging drains or cleaning the sump pit. 

Remember that not all plumbers work with sump pumps, so it's important to understand whether your plumber is qualified and experienced in repairs. You can do this by reading their reviews and asking them questions about their past projects. 

Here are a few additional steps you should take when choosing a pro:

• Verify their license: Most states require professionals to be licensed when working on plumbing and electrical components. It's a good idea to check your state's licensure requirements to ensure your professional meets them. 

• Ask if they offer warranties: Some professionals warranty their work and/or parts. So if you experience a breakdown soon after the repair was completed, or if a part turns out to be defective, a warranty might cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

• Get several quotes: Compare estimates to make sure you’re getting a fair price before hiring a pro. 

For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page. 

The national average cost of sump pump repair is around $705,* with prices ranging from around $400 to $1,200,* according to Thumbtack data.

The type of sump pump you have and the type of repairs needed will ultimately determine pricing. For example, readjusting a stuck float is usually a quick, inexpensive fix. However, some repairs (like a burnt-out motor) may actually require replacing the pump, which tends to be more costly.

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

Sump pumps can fail for a variety of reasons, one of the most common being power failure. Sometimes, the fix might be as easy as restoring power to the pump. But for more complicated problems and repairs, it's worth calling in the professionals or even replacing the pump.  Here are some other reasons why your sump pump might fail:

• Old age

• Switch issues

• Clogged discharge pipes

• Pump overload

• Improper installation

• Lack of maintenance

• Check valve failure

• Float misalignment

• Motor burnout

• Improper sump pit size

• Battery backup failure

• Frozen or burst pipes

• Poor quality pump

A sump pump typically lasts for about seven years, but it ultimately depends on how well you take care of it.

Regular maintenance might help your pump last longer, while neglected sump pumps are more likely to fail sooner. The wear and tear of normal use can eventually take a toll on the sump pump’s components, leading to breakdowns and lower efficiency. 

Here are some signs that your pump is broken or functioning poorly:

• The pump doesn't turn on

• The pump runs without water in the sump pit

• Strange noises like grinding, gurgling, or screeching

• Excessive vibration

• Continuous running

• Visible rust

If your sump pump isn't working, consider some basic checks and maintenance before you call a pro. For example, are your pipes blocked or frozen? Is your pump receiving power?

If you can't find any obvious or easy-to-fix reasons that your pump isn't working, it might be time to hire a pro.

Sometimes, a sump pump can be repaired in under an hour, but more complex repairs (or a pump replacement) typically take two to four hours. 

The repair work usually takes place at the pump and shouldn’t require your water supply to be shut off. If your sump pump is broken, a professional will typically start with inspecting and troubleshooting the problem. They usually check for electrical issues, mechanical failures and other smaller issues like blocked pipes or clogged drains. 

Once they've identified the problem, they will usually advise you on the best approach. For example, if your sump pump is old or has significant damage, your plumber will likely suggest that you replace it. If there’s a relatively easy fix, like removing debris or clearing the discharge line, they will probably urge you to stick with a repair.  

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

Here are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your sump pump: 

How big is the problem? Sometimes, sump pumps only need minor repairs for small issues like blocked pipes, stuck floats or electrical problems. However, if a pump experiences a major mechanical failure, like a burnt-out motor, it might be worth replacing it. 

How old is the pump? Most sump pumps have a lifespan of around seven years. If your pump is newer, consider getting it fixed and check your warranty to see if repairs are covered. For older pumps, it might be time to consider a replacement, as repair costs can add up quickly.

How much will it cost? Getting accurate quotes on both the cost of repair and replacement will help you decide on the best option. If the repair cost is 50% or more of the replacement cost, you might want to replace it. 

When in doubt, contact a sump pump repair professional for guidance. They can help you decide if fixing your sump pump is worth it, or if you’re better off with a new one.