

Anyone who’s lived in Lawrence, Topeka, or Baldwin knows how quickly Kansas weather can turn. A sunny afternoon can be followed by heavy rain that pushes water straight into your basement. That’s why so many homes rely on sump pumps.
When one stops working, it doesn’t take long for water to cause damage. Dunco Heating, Cooling & Plumbing offers sump pump repair and maintenance throughout the area to help keep your basement dry and your family safe.
How a Sump Pump Works
A sump pump sits in the lowest point of your basement, usually in a pit. As water collects there during storms or snowmelt, the pump switches on and moves it safely away from your foundation. Without one, water levels rise, leading to flooding, cracks in the foundation, and mold.
Most homes around northeast Kansas use either submersible pumps, which sit in the pit under water, or pedestal pumps, which keep the motor above the pit. Both do the same job, but both also need regular care to stay reliable.
Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Attention
Your sump pump will usually let you know something’s wrong before it quits altogether. Call for service if you notice:
- The pump won’t turn on when water fills the pit
- It runs constantly but doesn’t remove water
- Loud banging, rattling, or humming noises
- Water pooling back into the basement or crawl space
- Rust, corrosion, or foul smells coming from the pit
- Breakers tripping or the unit losing power often
Catching these issues early is the best way to avoid a flooded basement and a big repair bill.
Simple Things to Check
Before you call for repair, there are a few quick checks you can try:
- Make sure the pump is plugged in and the breaker hasn’t tripped
- Look at the float switch to see if it’s stuck
- Clear out dirt, gravel, or other buildup in the pit
- Check that the discharge line isn’t clogged or frozen
- Pour a bucket of water into the pit to see if the pump kicks on
If none of this works, it’s time to bring in a plumber.
When to Call a Plumber
Some problems aren’t safe to troubleshoot without training. Call Dunco right away if:
- The pump still won’t turn on after basic checks
- You notice sparks, burning smells, or repeated breaker trips
- The unit cycles on and off quickly or runs without moving water
- Your basement has already started flooding
Our team can quickly find the problem, make the right repair, and make sure your pump is ready for the next storm.
Sump Pump Maintenance Tips
The best way to avoid an emergency is with regular maintenance. A few simple habits help a lot:
- Test your pump every few months by filling the pit with water
- Keep the pit free of dirt and debris
- Replace filters or screens if your pump uses them
- Check that the discharge pipe is clear and drains away from the house
- Schedule a professional inspection once a year
With a little upkeep, your pump will be ready when the weather turns rough.
Why Choose Dunco?
Homeowners in Lawrence, Topeka, and Baldwin trust Dunco because we’re part of the community. We know how unpredictable Kansas weather can be and how it impacts basements in our area. When you call us, you get:
- Technicians who are trained to fix sump pumps quickly and safely
- Clear explanations and repair options before any work begins
- Plumbing support for your whole system, not just the pump
- Honest advice on maintenance and replacement if needed
- Service built on reliability and care for local families
Trusted Sump Pump Repair in Lawrence, Topeka and Baldwin
A sump pump is your home’s first line of defense against flooding, but it only works if it’s in good condition. Dunco Heating, Cooling & Plumbing provides sump pump repair, replacement, and maintenance across Lawrence, Topeka, and Baldwin. Whether you need a quick fix or routine service, our team is ready to keep your basement dry and your home protected.
Call today to schedule your sump pump service and get peace of mind before the next storm.
Schedule OnlineFrequently Asked Questions
Yes. A battery or water-powered backup pump adds protection during outages or if your main pump fails.
Water can back up into your basement, causing damage to walls, floors, and belongings.
It could be a stuck float switch, a clog, or a failing motor. A professional inspection will confirm it.
You can handle basic checks but leave electrical and mechanical repairs to a plumber.
Most pumps last about 7 to10 years, depending on usage and maintenance

