What should I do if my sump pump stops working after heavy rain?

If your sump pump stops working after heavy rain, treat it as urgent: cut power at the outlet, avoid standing water, and schedule repair with Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling. The most common cause after storms is a power or switch issue, such as a tripped GFCI or stuck float; clogs and overwhelmed pumps are also frequent. We handle these storm failures routinely in the Lebanon area and can add a battery backup so the pump keeps running during outages. For true emergencies, our plumbers offer 24/7 response and fix clogs, electrical faults, and failed floats.

Quick checks you can do safely before we arrive:

• Restore power: reset the GFCI and check the breaker.
• Test the float by lifting it; if it runs, the switch or float needs service.
• Remove visible debris from the pit and intake after power is off.
• If water is rising, use a wet/dry vac or utility pump to reduce levels.

If water is rising toward finished areas, shut off electricity to the affected space and seek emergency service. <br/> Updated: 2026-06-13 <br/> Need help in Lebanon, IN? Call (317) 765-1855 or book online. "Chris replaced a failed sump pump quickly and ensured I understood how to maintain the added battery backup system." — Jim D.