Sump Pumps Explained
A sump pump removes water from the lowest point in a home, whether it's a basement or crawlspace. It pumps floodwater away from a house through a discharge pipe to a safe location to protect the home against flooding and water damage.
Sump pumps are especially important in areas that are prone to flooding or have a high water table. This article will outline the advantages of installing a sump pump, the different types, and ways to ensure the home’s sump pump continues working to prevent home flooding when it’s needed.
Why Install a Sump Pump?
Sump pumps are appliances that remove water that collects in a sump pump basin or pit. They are important for preventing flooding, water damage, mold growth, and structural damage to the house. Some of the benefits of a sump pump installation include the following:
- Prevents home and basement flooding
- Humidity reduction
- Prevents water damage
- Prevents mold and mildew growth
- Prevents structural damage and protects the foundation
- Prevents electric shock and other electrical hazards
- Speeds up the cleanup process
What Are the Main Types of Sump Pumps?
Pedestal sump pumps and submersible sump pumps are the two main types of sump pumps. There are advantages to both types, which a homeowner can use to help them decide which will work best for their home, needs, and budget. Here are the benefits of each:
Pedestal Pumps: These sump pumps have a motor that sits above the sump pump basin and doesn’t get submerged in the water.
- They are less expensive.
- They work for smaller pits.
- They last longer.
Submersible Pumps: The motor of submersible sump pumps is inside the sump pump basin and gets submerged in the water.
- They are more powerful and can handle large volumes of water.
- They are quieter.
- They take up little to no space since they sit below the ground.
How to Ensure the Sump Pump Is Working?
It is vital that a sump pump works well so that when flooding occurs, it can effectively protect the home from flooding, water damage, and other problems. One way to ensure the sump pump works well is with routine maintenance from a professional. They can check the system's performance and fix any issues they find.
Another important step to make sure the sump pump is working is routine testing. Homeowners can test their sump pumps in several ways, but one easy way is to pour a bucket of water into the sump pump pit slowly, until the float switch activates the pump to turn on and remove the water. Another great way to ensure the sump pump can work, even during a power outage, is with a sump pump battery backup. If the power goes out, the battery backup will keep the pump working, removing water to protect the home.
About Laney’s Inc.
Laney’s Inc. has over six decades of experience serving the Fargo area. They offer competitive pricing, honest advice, and friendly experts. Call them for sump pump installation and repair services in Fargo, ND.