A sump pump prevents ground and rainwater from entering your basement, avoiding costly water damage. It aims to keep your home safe from serious flooding, warping, toxic mold and foundation damage.
It is installed in the lowest area of your home, typically a pit in the basement floor or crawl space. Some homeowners also purchase battery backups, alarms and water level alarms to ensure their sump pumps will work during flood calamities.
Cost
Adding a sump pump to your home is a great idea, especially if you live in an area that is prone to flooding. It can prevent countless thousands of dollars in water damage and remodeling costs. A sump pump is a pit that collects excess water in your basement or crawl space and when the water level reaches a dangerous amount, it will activate and force the water outside of your home.
The cost of a sump pump installation depends on a number of factors, including the type of floor you have, the power of the pump and your geographical location. You should hire a professional to ensure that the sump pump is properly hooked up to your home’s plumbing and electrical system.
There are two major types of sump pumps: pedestal and submersible. Pedestal sump pumps sit above the basin while submersible sump pumps are completely submerged in the basin. The former has a lower price tag, but the motor is not waterproof and may require more maintenance.
Benefits
If you live in an area prone to flooding, you can reduce the risk of flood damage with sump pump installation. This device is installed in the lowest area of your home and pumps water away from the basement or crawl spaces, protecting your home from expensive foundation repairs.
A sump pump is a machine that works by detecting when water is building up and automatically switching on. It drains the excess water and directs it away from your home to a storm drain. It is a great investment for any homeowner who wants to protect their property from serious flooding.
The pump can be hardwired into your electrical system or plugged in, so it will function during power outages. It is also possible to purchase a battery backup, which will ensure that the pump works even when the power is out. It is important to check the discharge line regularly to ensure it is clear of debris and is not frozen.
Installation
Sump pump installation is an easy DIY project for homeowners. It requires a few hand tools and PVC parts. You should start by reading the pump’s owner manual. It will explain the different parts of the pump and how to install them. It will also inform you if any additional accessories like float switches or alarms are compatible with the pump.
After installing the discharge pipe, it’s a good idea to lay rags or towels out. This will prevent puddles from forming in the work area. Then, use a utility knife to deburr the edges of the pipe, so they’re smooth and don’t cause rust or leaks.
When the installation is complete, you’ll need to check that everything works by filling the basin with water and observing how it operates. Once you’re satisfied, put a lid over the basin and make sure it is airtight. Then, cover the lid with gravel to discourage silt from clogging the pump.
Maintenance
Sump pumps are a great way to prevent flooding in basements, crawl spaces and other areas of your home that are susceptible to flood damage. They are especially important if your area is prone to flash flooding. They work by pumping water out of these areas and forcing it away from your house, protecting it from expensive damages.
A sump pump is installed into a pit that’s at the lowest point of your basement or crawl space. When the water level in the pit reaches a certain danger point, it activates and starts pumping the water out.
A properly functioning sump pump should be relatively quiet. Any loud noises can indicate a problem with the system and will require professional sump pump repair services from McQuillan Home Services. If the pump is constantly running, it’s a sign that there is an issue with the float switch which will also require repair services. Similarly, if you notice visible rusting on the pump it’s likely that iron bacteria has entered the system which is a serious safety hazard.
