Serving Washington, DC and Northern Virginia

Sump pumps

Sump Pump Service

United services sump-pump equipment that removes unwanted groundwater from a basement or foundation area.

Updated August 27, 2026

Representative sump pump and float inside a clean basement pit
Representative sump-pump equipment. Pit, power, backup, and discharge conditions vary by property.

01

What changed with the sump pump?

Tell us whether the pump stopped, runs constantly, cycles often, makes a new sound, leaves water rising in the pit, or has an alarm or backup system that is not working as expected.

02

Why is the pump running constantly, cycling, making noise, or not starting?

The pump, float, check valve, controls, power, pit conditions, water entering the pit, or discharge path can all affect operation. The symptom needs to be traced through the system.

03

Is the basement water groundwater or a sewer backup?

A sump pump is for groundwater or drainage water collected at the pit. Sewage, a drain backup, or contaminated floodwater is a different problem and needs the appropriate plumbing, utility, cleanup, and safety response.

04

What do the float, power source, alarm, and backup system change?

They affect when the pump starts, what happens during a power loss, how a failure is reported, and which parts of the system need attention. Share any alarm or backup details with the request.

05

Where does the pump discharge?

The discharge route affects how water leaves the property and whether it can return. Do not disconnect or reroute it yourself. Describe where the pipe goes when that is already known.

06

Does the property require a permit or building approval?

Requirements depend on the location and work. United can identify the equipment scope, while the property owner or manager should confirm any building, condominium, landlord, or local approval that applies before work begins.

07

What should you do if water reaches outlets or electrical equipment?

Stay out of the water and keep clear of electrical equipment. Call emergency services or the utility when there is an immediate electrical danger. Do not touch the pump, cord, outlet, or panel from a wet area.

08

What should you send with the request?

Share the property address and ZIP, water level, whether the pump is running, any alarm, the power and backup setup when known, and a safe photo of the pit area if available.

Common questions

What customers ask.

Is sump-pump service the same as basement waterproofing?

No. United services the pump and connected operating equipment. This page does not claim waterproofing, French-drain, sewer, mold, cleanup, or restoration work.

Is a sump pump the same as a well pump?

No. A sump pump removes unwanted water from a low point. A well pump supplies water from a private well. Each system has its own service page.