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sump pump noise

6 years ago

New basement addition has new sump pump installed. It is two rooms away and upstairs in the kitchen it sounds like a gurgling monster. It has a quiet valve but is really loud. It runs a few times a day. Maybe once an hour. We are in DC area. Is this normal noise level for sump?

Comments (10)

  • PRO
    6 years ago

    Hi Lora Stine,


    Not a pro but sump pumps aren't typically supposed to make gurgling noises, if installed correctly. A sump pump's job is supposed to pump water to and from one spot to another. Perhaps the noise is the result of the piping being either too small or too large for the space in which this was installed? We'd suggest consulting with an experienced plumber in your area.


    If that's not an option that you'd like to pursue, we would also suggest looking this up on Youtube and finding something similar that could point you in the right direction.


    We hope this information will help you make a more informed decision on your home needs.


    Very Best,


    Tai Truong

    Elements of Design

    3400 Medford Street

    Los Angeles, CA 90063

    tai@lusivedecor.com

    www.elementsofdesign.com

  • 6 years ago

    After thinking about this a little more, I wonder if the gurgling you're hearing is coming from a drain. Can you tell?

  • 6 years ago

    Hmmmm, I will try to take a video w sound. It’s supposed to rain tomorrow so it will be more likely to capture. Thx all very much!

  • 6 years ago

    Was a “weep hole” drilled a few inches above the pump? Should be one to permit escape of water below the check valve.

  • 6 years ago

    Does it make the gurgling sound the whole time it runs, or just at the end of the cycle? The pump is controlled by a float switch, and if the float switch is adjusted too low, the pump can suck air, and that will make a gurgling sound.

    The float switch is usually tethered to the pump housing, you can try raising it a bit, but keep in mind that raising the float will also let the water in the sump raise higher before the pump starts. You might need a few trials and errors before getting it just right.

  • 6 years ago

    Thanks All for super helpful advice!

  • 6 years ago

    We just got a new sump pump installed with a new check valve and it is so quiet. I can find out what it is if that would help.

  • 6 years ago

    I use that exact type of check valve because they ARE very quiet! Have installed 4 of them so far in various installations and they all are quiet, virtually silent as the pump stops and the valve shuts. Looking at your picture, I wonder if the piping is against the drywall or the 2x4 framing somewhere along its path; if so, the pump motor vibrations during operation could be resonating against the drywall/framing and be what you are hearing. Separation/isolation of the piping from the drywall or framing would be the solution. If the discharge is pumped vertically to a point that then drains downward horizontally, yes you can hear the drain water gurgling as it drains away from the highest point. Usually this isn't loud, and isn't a flaw IMO, but can be heard by discerning individuals.

  • 6 years ago

    W
    We