COLUMBUS, Ohio — Plumbing professionals in the Columbus area are urging homeowners to check their sump pumps after severe storms caused power outages across parts of central Ohio this weekend.
Strong thunderstorms moved through the region Saturday and knocked out electricity for thousands of customers in Pickaway County and Fairfield County. Because most sump pumps rely on household electricity, outages during heavy rain can increase the risk of basement flooding.
Contractors who serve homeowners in Franklin County say sump pump failure remains one of the most common causes of basement flooding during Ohio’s spring storm season.
Data from the American Society of Home Inspectors shows that nearly 60 percent of homes in the United States experience some form of basement moisture problem.
Central Ohio often sees strong spring storms when warm, humid air meets cooler weather systems moving south from Canada. These storms can drop heavy rain in a short time and put extra pressure on sump pump systems.
Simple Sump Pump Test for Homeowners
Plumbing professionals recommend testing a sump pump at least once a year, especially before spring storms become more frequent.
Homeowners can perform a simple test by slowly pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. A working pump should start automatically and remove the water from the pit. If the pump does not start or if the water does not drain, the system may need repair or replacement.
Contractors also advise homeowners to check the sump pit for debris such as dirt, gravel, or leaves that could block the pump intake. The pump should remain securely plugged into an outlet, and the home’s circuit breaker should be checked to make sure it has not tripped.
Unusual sounds such as grinding, rattling, or continuous humming can also signal mechanical problems.
Check the Drain Pipe Outside the Home
Another issue sometimes occurs outside the house.
The discharge pipe that carries water away from the sump pump should send water several feet away from the home’s foundation. Contractors say homeowners should check that the pipe outlet is not blocked, buried, or frozen.
During heavy rainfall, even a partially blocked discharge pipe can cause water to back up into the sump pit and overflow into the basement.
Power Outages Increase Flood Risk
The weekend storms caused thousands of outages across south-central Ohio.
According to South Central Power Company, outages at one point affected more than 10,000 customers in Pickaway County and more than 3,000 customers in Fairfield County.
Because standard sump pumps depend entirely on electricity, these outages temporarily removed flood protection for many homes while heavy rain was falling.
For that reason, contractors often recommend installing battery backup sump pump systems that allow pumps to continue working during power outages.
Generator Safety Reminder
Safety officials also warn residents to use generators carefully during storm-related outages.
The Ohio State Fire Marshal and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission say portable generators should never run inside a home or garage, even if doors or windows are open.
Generators produce carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can reach dangerous levels within minutes in enclosed spaces.
Officials say generators should only operate outdoors and should stay far away from windows, doors, and ventilation openings.
Flood Risk in Parts of Franklin County
Some neighborhoods in Franklin County face a higher risk of basement flooding during long periods of rain.
Areas near waterways such as the Scioto River, Olentangy River, and Alum Creek can experience higher groundwater levels during heavy storms.
Low-lying neighborhoods in parts of Franklinton, Clintonville, and Linden may also see increased flooding risk during Ohio’s spring storm season.
Emergency Plumbing Services in Columbus
Several plumbing companies serving the Columbus area confirmed they provide emergency service for sump pump failures and basement flooding.
These include The Waterworks Plumbing, Drain, Heating & Cooling, Apex Pros Plumbing, Electric, Heating and Air, and Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Columbus.
Contractors say homeowners who notice water rising in a sump pit or signs of basement flooding should contact a licensed professional as soon as possible.
Sources: American Society of Home Inspectors, Ohio State Fire Marshal, South Central Power Company
Last Updated: March 8, 2026