Sump Pump – Benefits of Installation in Basement
As a homeowner, you would never like to face a flooded basement. It is a nightmare to experience this problem caused by heavy rainfalls or rising water tables. The situation is rather disastrous in itself. Moreover, it leaves behind a lot of damage, huge repair costs, heavy inconveniences, and even health problems.
With us, you can easily avoid such situations because we offer different types of sump pumps to fit all your needs.
A sump pump is an appliance which moves water from the basement outside. A sump is a special pit which is carved below the surface of the basement floor. It is also called a basin where a pump is located. The pump has some valves which react to rising levels of water or hydrostatic pressure.
When the water rises, a pump switches on automatically and starts driving the water away from the basin and your property through a discharge line. Another name for it is an effluent. It connects the sump pump and a specific drainage area. That can be a dry well, pond, or creek. It can also drain the water into the main drainage line or neighboring drain pipes. These designated areas shouldn’t be located closer than 10-20 feet from your home’s foundation or there is a risk of water backup into the basement.
There are special building codes in some areas which determine where the water from your house should be drained. That is why, before installing a sump pump system, it is always better to check all the regulations with your local authorities.
Sometimes, it is essential to connect an extended drainage hose to increase the capacity of the sump pump. So, you need a professional contractor for advice and this work.
Types of Sump Pumps
Selecting the correct type of a sump pump can be a challenging task. You will need the help of professionals to ensure the safety of your home. We offer different types of sump pumps due to your individual needs.
Submersible Sump Pumps
This type combines a pump and a motor in one unit. Such appliances are installed inside the basin meaning they are submerged in the water. They have a lot of advantages. They are not too big so such sump pumps can save space. The items are also quieter than other types and are not clogged often. Their disadvantage is a shorter lifespan. However, submersible sump pumps are so far the best choice for frequently flooded areas.
Pedestal Sump Pumps
These appliances use a separate pump and motor. The motor is located on a specially designed pedestal above the basin, and a hose runs to the basin with a pump in it. The pump drives the water through this hose and away from the home to the designated area. The motor is not submerged, so its lifespan is longer. Moreover, it is easy to access if there are some maintenance issues. However, it is louder and bigger so it may take much more space than a submersible sump pump.
Battery Backup Sump Pumps
This solution is very helpful when you need extra security against unpredictable flooding, the main sump pump failure, or intensive water levels. This sump pump is equipped with a float switch which makes it possible for such a sump pump to operate during the electricity blackouts caused by severe storms and hurricanes. When the main source of power switches off, the water starts rising in the basin. The float switch is triggered and the battery starts operating independently.
Water-Powered Backup
This appliance uses the increased water pressure which helps drive water away from the basin. The system has a big advantage – there is no need in backup monitoring or replacing batteries. However, using extra water raises the bills significantly. That is why some municipalities do not allow for the installation of these appliances.
Sump Pump Switches
The efficiency of any sump pump’s performance depends greatly on the type of a switch. The switch triggers the pump independently so it needs to work appropriately.
Here are several types of switches we normally recommend for sump pump systems:
- Float switch. It is just a float. The item is attached to the pump and is located on the water surface. When water rises because of flooding, the float rises too and starts the pump.
- Electronic switch. It doesn’t have any float but works by measuring the water pressure. The pressure increases when the water rises. By sensing it, the float starts the pump.
- Pressure switch. It measures the water pressure too when the water rises. When it reaches a certain level, the switch triggers the pump.
- Diaphragm switch. It flips the concave up when the water rises and down when its level lowers. Actually, it works as the human diaphragm while breathing. This type of float is commonly used because it does not get stuck.
The sump pump can also be equipped with some accessories, such as, for example, a water alarm attachment. It is considered the last line of defense because it warns you that the sump pump does not work properly.
Sump Pump’s Characteristics to Consider
There is no sole solution for all the situations. However, while choosing a sump pump for your home, you can consider the following:
- The power of the appliance needs to be enough to cope with big amounts of flooding water if you live in an area with heavy precipitation or high water table.
- The cost of the appliance should fit perfectly your budget. Include the cost of the sump pump and its installation to get the real picture of expenses.
- The type of the sump pump, its size, materials, extra features, and accessories should influence your choice.
- Basement materials also need to be taken into account. If the material is hard and thick, it will take more time and labor to make all the necessary installations.
- Additional drainage may be needed so the installation of the extra drainage lines and / or extension hose may be required.
The cost of your sump pump can be decreased if you install it yourself. However, this kind of work is not for a DIY project because it needs professional expertise and experience. We are always ready to help you with the sump pump so address all your basement waterproofing issues to us.
Benefits of a Sump Pump
When you have installed a sump pump in your home, it will provide you with a lot of benefits. Apart from the overall protection of your house from the consequences of bad weather conditions, it will be beneficial in the following ways:
- It prevents basement flooding and all the damage related to it. EVen if the water is just seeping or pooling in your basement, the sump pump will prevent the long-term damage by diverting excessive moisture from the foundation.
- It protects your basement against mold and mildew. They are always a result of standing water. Having them in your basement can cause structural damage alongside health problems, such as allergies or respiratory disorders in your family. A sump pump eliminates the standing water problem and prevents mildew and mold from growing.
- It does not allow insects and pests to infest your home. When a basement is damp, insects or rodents can be breeding. A sump pump makes your home dry so such infestations are almost impossible.
- Your electrical appliances will be safe. The excess water in your basement can cause wire damage. Your appliances will be damaged as well and over time, need costly repairs or replacement. Or you may face an electrical shock or fire. All this means that a sump pump can protect your home and your family from more severe disasters and bring you peace of mind and the feeling of security.
Final Thoughts
Taking into account everything said above, think about the sump pump installation in your home if you do not have any or its replacement for a more modern and technological version if you feel that your old sump pump does not do its work properly.
Our experienced technicians will help you to solve all your basement moisture and flooding problems by installing the type of sump pump you really need. We will take care of your home and treat it with great respect as our own. We have all the qualifications, expertise, and equipment for that.
Make a decision on installing a sump pump in your basement now and call us any time.