A sump pump reduces the risk of flood damage to your home. It sits in a pit dug in the lowest part of your basement or crawl space. When it activates, it pumps water out through pipes that run away from your home. These lines usually contain a one-way check valve.
Installation
Moisture in your home’s basement isn’t just a nuisance; it can slowly eat away at the foundation, damage walls, create mold and rot, and affect your family’s health. A sump pump can help, but you need to install it properly to be effective.
Begin by digging a hole large enough for the sump pit. Ideally, you want to do this on a day when the ground is dry to prevent dirt from clogging your sump pump.
Once the basin is in place, fit a pipe through the rim header and run it to the home exterior. The discharge pipe should have a check valve that channels water away from (not back into) the pump.
You should also ensure your sump pump has access to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlet for safety reasons.
Maintenance
Before the rainy season, check to ensure your sump pump is working properly. This involves a few basic things, like making sure it is plugged into a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet, which will prevent accidental electrocution. It also includes checking that the cord is not frayed or otherwise compromised and that the discharge pipe is free from clogs. You should also make sure that the float switch is still functioning correctly, and that it can rise and fall as needed to activate the pump.
A properly functioning sump pump will direct water outside to a drainage location, either a natural runoff point or your sewer system (if permitted by local regulations). It should also have a check valve that keeps water from returning back into the basin. Lastly, it should be inspected and cleaned regularly to remove any dirt and debris buildup.
Repairs
If your basement is wet or floods often, it may be time to install a sump pump. A wet basement is not only unsightly but can cause a lot of damage, and moisture is not good for the health of you and your family.
Sump pumps are electrically powered and do not require any specialized wiring. They plug into standard household outlets and are usually near a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
A common problem with sump pumps is when they continuously cycle on and off. This is an indication that the pump is too small for the amount of water it is tasked with displacing, which will overwork it and shorten its lifespan.
Another common issue is when the float switch becomes jammed. The plastic float is designed to rise up in the pit as water levels rise, but it can become obstructed by debris, wires or other items inside the basin. If you suspect this is the case, a plumber can help you resolve it.
Replacement
A battery backup sump pump can be an excellent addition to your home, especially if you live in a flood zone or have experienced previous flooding. It can be installed in place of your existing pump and provide an extra level of protection for your finished basement or crawl space.
The pump’s output connects to a plumbing pipe that carries water outside the home, either directly or via a gutter system. A check valve is also installed so that the discharge water does not back up into the pump.
To install the discharge pipe, first figure out where water, sewer and utility lines enter the house and locate the lowest point of your basement floor. Dry fit the pieces of PVC that will be running through your rim header, then cement them in place. The pipe should also have a vent hole that is out of the water but drains into the pit to prevent an air lock.
