Sump Pump Services in Seattle, WA
over 4586 reviews
You can have access to reliable Seattle sump pump repair, replacement and installation by calling 206.792.7495 today. Get honest pricing and expert service. A functioning sump pump is critical if your home is prone to flooding, so don’t wait to call for help.
Seattle rain has a way of testing a home, especially the lower levels. When the wet season rolls in, a functioning sump pump can be the difference between a dry basement and a soggy, stressful cleanup. If your sump pump fails when water reaches the sump pit, things can go downhill quickly, from soaked storage boxes to serious water damage near your home’s foundation. That is why this little pump has such an important job.
At Gene Johnson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we provide sump pump repair and installation services throughout the Greater Seattle area. We have been serving Seattle, WA, and nearby communities for generations, helping homeowners stay ahead of excess water, excess moisture, and mold growth. When the weather turns, you want a reliable system and a team that knows how to keep it running.
When flooding strikes, you can count on Gene Johnson for emergency plumbing.
Our Sump Pump Repair Services in Seattle, WA
Sump pumps are simple in concept but easy to overlook. They sit quietly in a sump basin (or sump pit) until the day you really need them, then they have to work efficiently and without hesitation. Our sump pump services cover repairs, troubleshooting, replacements, and new sump pump installations. We also help homeowners understand their setup, especially when a crawl space or basement has a history of flooding.
If your pump is acting weird, running constantly, or not running at all, we can identify the issue fast and recommend the safest, most cost-effective fix.
The Most Common Sump Pump Problems We Fix
Sump pump issues often show up right when the rain is coming down hard. These are the problems we see most often in Seattle homes.
- Float Switch Failure: A stuck or faulty float switch can keep the pump from turning on, or it can run nonstop. Either way, it puts your basement at risk.
- Motor Burnout or Overheating: Pumps that run too often, or struggle with debris, can overheat and fail. A failing motor is a common reason the primary pump fails.
- Clogged Intake or Discharge Line: Dirt and debris can clog the pump intake or the discharge pipe. This reduces performance and can cause backups in the sump basin.
- Power Outage Problems: A sump pump without backup protection is vulnerable during a power outage. That is often when storm drain systems overflow, and the risk rises.
- Improper Pump Sizing or Installation: A pump that is too small (or set up incorrectly) may not keep up with heavy rain. Poor installation can also lead to short cycling and early breakdown.
- Noisy Operation or Excess Vibration: Grinding, rattling, or loud humming can point to worn parts, debris inside the pump, or mounting issues. Ignoring these sounds can lead to costly problems.
If repairs are not the right path, we offer replacement services and help you choose a new unit that fits your home and moisture conditions.
Our Sump Pump Installation and Replacement Services in Seattle, WA
A sump pump is not something you want to “kind of” work. Proper installation is about reliability, drainage, and making sure water is directed away from your property safely. Whether you are upgrading an older system or installing a sump pump for the first time, we take a careful approach that protects your home’s foundation and helps prevent long-term moisture problems.
We handle both replacement and new installation services, and we can recommend backup options if your home is prone to flooding or the area experiences frequent power outages during storms.
Types of Sump Pumps We Install
Different basements and crawl spaces call for different equipment. We install a range of systems and help you choose one based on water volume, pit size, and how often the pump will run.
- Submersible Pumps: These sit inside the sump pit and are designed to operate underwater. Submersible pumps are quiet, efficient, and a popular choice for many finished or partially finished basements.
- Pedestal Pumps: The motor sits above the sump basin while the pump sits below. Pedestal pumps are easier to access for service and can be a good fit for smaller pits.
- Battery Backup Sump Pump Systems: A backup pump and battery kick on when the primary pump fails or the power goes out. This extra layer of protection helps prevent flooding during storms.
- Combination Sump Pump Systems: These setups pair a primary pump with a backup system in one unit. They are built for reliability and are a great choice for homes with recurring water issues.
No matter which option you choose, we install it with long-term performance in mind, including safe discharge routing and reliable electrical connections.
Our Sump Pump Installation Process: What to Expect
We keep the process clean, efficient, and easy to understand. You should know what we are doing and why, especially when it comes to protecting your home.
- Site Evaluation: We inspect the basement or crawl space, sump pit location, and current drainage path. We also look for signs of excess moisture and prior water damage.
- System Recommendation: Based on the space and water volume, we recommend the right pump type and capacity, including backup options if flooding risk is high.
- Sump Basin and Pump Setup: We install or adjust the sump basin as needed, then mount the pump securely for stable operation and easy access later.
- Discharge Line Connection: We connect the discharge line and route it safely away from the house, helping reduce the chance of water cycling back toward the foundation.
- Testing and Safety Checks: We test the float switch, pump function, and discharge flow. We also verify electrical connections and confirm the system works efficiently.
Once everything is running smoothly, we show you how it works, what to watch for, and how to keep it reliable through Seattle’s rainy season.
How Do I Know If My Sump Pump Is Working Properly?
A working sump pump should turn on when water rises in the sump pit and shut off after the water level drops. If you hear the pump running constantly, cycling too often, or not running at all during heavy rain, something may be off. You can also look for signs like standing water in the sump basin, damp areas in the basement, or a musty smell that points to excess moisture. We recommend testing the system periodically by pouring water into the pit until the float switch activates. If it does not kick on quickly, or it struggles to pump out water, it is time to schedule sump pump repair.
What Are The Signs I Need Sump Pump Repair?
Sump pump problems tend to give little hints before a full failure. Catching them early can prevent flooding and water damage.
- Unusual Noises: Grinding, rattling, or loud humming can mean debris in the pump or a worn motor.
- Frequent Cycling: If the pump turns on and off repeatedly, the float switch may be stuck, or the system may be undersized.
- Visible Water in The Pit: Standing water that does not drain suggests a clog or pump failure.
- No Power or No Response: Tripped breakers, wiring issues, or motor burnout can stop operation completely.
If you notice any of these, it is worth having skilled technicians take a look before the next storm.
How Do I Know Which Sump Pump Is Best for My Basement?
The best sump pump depends on your basement layout, how much water you typically get, and how quickly it rises in the pit. A smaller home with minor seepage may do fine with a standard submersible or pedestal pump. Homes with frequent flooding, high groundwater, or a history of storm drain overflow often benefit from a stronger primary pump plus a battery backup. We also consider pit size, discharge distance, and the reliability you need. Some homeowners want a quiet setup for a finished basement, while others want easy access for service. We help you determine the right match, then install it correctly so it performs when it matters.
Do I Need a Battery Backup Sump Pump in Seattle?
A battery backup is not required for every home, but it is a smart upgrade in many Seattle situations. During major storms, power outages happen, and that is often when water is rising fastest. If the primary pump fails and there is no backup, flooding risk goes way up. A backup system keeps working when electricity is out, and it also protects you if the primary pump fails unexpectedly. This is especially helpful for finished basements, homes storing valuables downstairs, or properties with ongoing water issues. We can recommend a backup option based on your flood risk and budget.
How Often Should a Sump Pump Be Maintained?
Sump pumps should be checked at least once a year, and more often if your pump runs frequently during rainy months. Maintenance helps reduce the chance of sudden failure and keeps the system pumping efficiently. A typical check includes testing the float switch, clearing debris from the pit, verifying discharge flow, and inspecting electrical connections. If you have a battery backup, the battery should be tested and replaced according to manufacturer guidelines. Regular maintenance is a simple way to avoid costly problems and protect your basement from water damage and mold growth.
Why Choose Gene Johnson?
When you are dealing with water risk, you want a team that shows up prepared, communicates clearly, and does the job right. That is what we focus on every day.
- Local Experience You Can Trust: We have served the Greater Seattle area for generations, and we understand how our wet seasons affect homes.
- Skilled Technicians: Our team is trained to diagnose sump pump issues fast and install reliable systems that perform under pressure.
- Honest Recommendations: We explain options clearly and only suggest what your home actually needs, no unnecessary upgrades.
- Same-Day Service Availability: When your basement is at risk, waiting is not ideal. We offer responsive service across our service area.
- Quality Installation Practices: We install pumps, basins, and discharge lines with long-term reliability and safety in mind.
- Trusted Plumbing Services In Seattle, WA: Homeowners count on us for dependable repairs, clean work, and professional service.
We help protect your home, your property, and your peace of mind, especially when the rain is coming down sideways.
Contact Gene Johnson Today for Trusted Sump Pump Services in Seattle, WA
You may want to fix your sump pump quickly and get it back into action, but if you aren’t experienced in handling repairs, then you’ll probably do more harm than good with your DIY approach. Considering the important job you expect the pump to do on your property, trusting the job to anyone but an experienced professional is not a wise choice.
Your sump pump can be the difference between a clean, dry basement and costly cleanup or dangerous mold growth, or other problems. Call Gene Johnson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical at 206.792.7495 in Seattle, WA, and the surrounding area for professional sump pump installation and repair.
QUALITY SERVICE
Within Your Budget
The best plumbing, cooling, heating, and electrical services shouldn’t have to break the bank. That’s why we are happy to provide our customers with opportunities to save on their next service with us. Our current online deals are updated periodically, so there is something for everyone, whether you are a first-time customer or a long-time loyalist.
Here are some benefits of trusting Gene Johnson with your HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical needs.
- Best value service in Seattle
- Always on-time arrival
- No mess left after a job
- Friendly team that truly cares about your safety and comfort
- Fixed right guarantee
- Upfront pricing
- Follow up calls to ensure your peace of mind
- Range of service options- no ultimatums!
Total reviews: 4586 | Average rating: 4.8
Patricia Martinez
Carolina Lindseth
Jeff was very helpful and transparent the whole process. Thankful for their help and would choose them again without a doubt
Cathy Eckberg
Our technician arrived promptly the morning after we called, he figured out our problem in a short amount of time and then arranged to come out the next day and replace our failed pressure relief valve. We messaged our neighborhood WhatsApp group to see if others noticed increased water pressure. Hugo went above and beyond when he went to our neighbors to test their water pressures to see if they had issues. Some did. I’m sure it will lead to follow on work. He was courteous and efficient. We are happy with his work.
Stuart Webber
Great work, clear explanations, pleasant and courteous…very happy
Ashley Hanson
We had Colby from Gene Johnson come out to estimate a gas line move for a kitchen remodel as well as a tankless water heater. He was professional (they wear shoe covers!), friendly and very honest about the requested services pricing and feasibility with a 100+ year old house. We haven’t chosen them for the actual work yet but most likely will given the experience. I will be sure to update my review when that happens!
mike shannon
Mike K was great. We’re in a new house, so Mike gave great advice on what to watch out for in a brand of toilet we’ve never used. Very friendly and walked me through all of our options to arrive at the best possible price.
Luke Jacobsen
Mark gave excellent service clearing my shower drain
Gregg Strandberg
Just a small bathroom sink job but Mark was fantastic. All is now functioning properly
Adam Schulman
Steven and Edgar were professional and timely – great communication as well. Would recommend!
Peter Heymann
Summary: Gene Johnson sent a tech (Matt Hunter) to address our home heating system, which was sending no heat at all to many rooms in the house. Our system is a wonky spaghetti mess of piping, controllers and pumps that theoretically delivers hot water to legacy cast iron radiators, new floorboard radiators, and seven in-floor hydronic loops. It has not worked as intended since we bought the house 15 years ago. It has likely *never worked right since the last house renovation 25 years go (2000), given the horrid “design” that was implemented then. Matt was the first tech ever to figure out how it all works. He repaired every failed component and problem that could be fixed, given our disastrous configuration. We are completely satisfied with Matt’s work and privately are enormously grateful that this money hole has now been tamed.
Our house dates to 1918, so challenges in upgrading the heating plant in 2000 were a certainty. However, the zoo in our HVAC room is nearly indecipherable. I have hired one HVAC company after another over last 15 years to make sense of it, at great expense.
Ninety percent of past techs gave incomplete explanations, proposed the replacement of a pump or controller, or the addition of a valve, and then left. Some were honest enough to simply offer a theory of how it works, while admitting they didn’t know, and then left us with a big bill.
Enter Matt Hunt. Not sure if Matt looks the part of genius plumber, but then I’ve never seen one till now. He’s a little nerdy perhaps (like me) and also a dirt bike racer. Whatever: Matt alone successfully unraveled the mysteries of our home hot-water distribution plant. He confirmed that the entire house is controlled by two thermostats, which are, incredibly, located just 16 feet apart on the first floor. (One controls all hot water distributed on the north side of the house; one controls all hot water sent to the south side. Go figure.) Matt explained why heat often doesn’t reach the upper floors even when the system is “working” (if it’s warm on the first floor, naturally, no heat is available to the second and third floors).
Matt discovered that the pressure in the water distribution lines was only 4PSI (target range: 13-22PSI), determined that the cause was huge amounts of air in the pipes, and the culprit was a broken refill valve. The new valve includes a pressure gauge so we can now see when the pressure in the water lines has fallen so low that the system can’t deliver hot water to the upper stories. He also spotted problems with the air eliminator, i.e. the “burping” component that normally should purge some/most of the air. He has proposed replacing that (agreed).
Matt drained the pipes on all floors; refilled the lines; purged all zones of air; and replaced the (broken) thermal expansion tank. Heat began to flow again to all rooms. He demosnttated that heat only happens on the upper floors provided that the two first-floor thermostats that control distribution to the entire home are below target temps and are calling for heat.
Matt mapped every radiator and hydronic zone to the main thermostat controlling it. He also determined which rooms/areas the hydronic thermostats control. (Of course, the hydronic thermostats, which are sprinkled around the house, are comic: they only perform as intended when the primary thermostats on the first floor are delivering hot water.) Matt gave us a detailed written explanation of what each component does and how it’s controlled.
Matt did all this in less time than some prior techs took to try and ultimately give up.
Our home heating system is a design wreck and will never deliver heat around the house reliably. However, with the fixes (and insights) mATT delivered, we now get heat when we want it with some work-arounds (like cooling down the first floor therostats). Further, we understand how to spot problems and fix the system going forward.
Thank you, Matt!
Matt & Tammy Sanchez
Steven came out to troubleshoot our tankless water heater and quickly identified the issue as a clogged condensate pump. What really stood out was the time he took to explain everything in detail. He walked me through the condition of the unit, the manufacturer’s recommended lifespan, and the condensation damage and rust that had already occurred due to the blockage.
Steven gave me honest, thoughtful guidance and helped me make an informed decision about replacing the unit, without any pressure whatsoever. He clearly explained that we could have gotten by with a descaling for now, but also helped me understand why replacing it would likely save money and headaches over the long run.
He was patient, knowledgeable, and answered all of my questions thoroughly. I really appreciated his transparency and professionalism, and I would absolutely recommend Steven and Gene Johnson to anyone needing plumbing or tankless water heater service. Thanks!
Casey Feaster
Very knowledgeable. Mike Keane really did an awesome job. Highly recommend these guys for all your plumbing needs. Definitely going to be a life long customer.
Dana McKenzie
Joseph F came for a leak we were experiencing along with his partner and was beyond helpful. We have a 4 month old and also had a contractor there at the same time. He was kind enough to entertain our little one in his swing while my husband was moving some things in the bathroom and I was talking to the contractor. So unexpected and beyond the call they came out for. Thank you!
amy Wesner
Jaren was great to work with! he came for the drain and returned for the toilet. Ran into some issues with both but resolved them quickly. good Job!
Chuck Henry
Right on time, quickly fixed the problems, friendly
Shawna Lawrence
Sean Smith is a great plumber that does a great job!!! Very happy with the new set up!! He was compassionate & professional all from day 1. We greatly recommend him!!!! Thank you Sean for all that you did & staying late to get the job done. ❤️
Anita Siefert
Michael K was extremely thorough and very easy to understand when explaining our plumbing problem. I would highly highly recommend using him in the future.
David Turner
Jaren replaced the kitchen faucet. He did a great job!
Simone Wells
Michael K. did a phenomenal job helping with our plumbing issue. He was professional, courteous, and detailed in his work. He made everything very easy to understand, and worked very efficiently from start to finish. I would recommend him and Gene Johnston Plumbing to anyone looking for a reliable plumber that’s a true professional.
Benjamin Gauthey
Great service!