A sump pump is the best way to prevent rot, toxic mold growth and foundation damage in a basement or crawl space. It also keeps the home dry and protects its structural integrity.
Plumbing specialists recommend sump pumps to mitigate the negative results of heavy rains and storms. They drain the rainwater into dedicated drainage lines, preventing septic tank flooding and other environmental risks.
Prevents Water Damage
When sump pumps are installed, the rainwater is directed away from the foundation and basement, preventing water damage. It can also prevent the formation of mold in these areas.
The pump catches the floodwaters and drains them outside. It is also possible to add a backup battery that will switch on automatically in the event of a power outage, protecting the property from water damage.
The system can be customized to suit a homeowner’s needs by adding features such as an airtight lid, pump stand, and drainage pipes. The plumber may also install a plastic vapor barrier or crawl space encapsulation system to keep the area dry, preventing moisture from damaging the plumbing and other electrical systems. Performing regular maintenance on the sump pump will ensure it is always working correctly. The plumber will test it, clean it, and check for any signs of malfunction. If the sump pump is constantly cycling on and off, there may be a problem with the pit or the float switch.
Protects the Foundation
A sump pump collects and pumps out water, protecting the home’s foundation from damage. Moisture in the basement can rot wood, promote mold growth, and weaken the foundation. It can also diminish a home’s value, require costly repairs and put families at risk.
Basement moisture remains a major problem for many homeowners, even with proper landscaping and waterproofing. Fortunately, sump pumps can prevent it from damaging your home and save you money.
To install a sump pump, first locate the area of your basement where you notice excess water. Then, dig a hole large enough to fit the sump pump basin. Make sure there are no rocks or other debris obstructing the pump’s discharge valve, which channels water away from (never back into) the sump basin. Next, connect the valve to a hose or pipe that runs out from the home’s exterior. Finally, cover the hole with concrete. Once your sump pump is in place, test it to ensure the float valve moves freely up and down and the pump turns on when the water level rises.
Reduces Electricity Bills
A sump pump prevents a damp basement, which can damage your home’s foundation. It also helps with the health of your family. Mold and mildew thrive in moist areas, and they can cause serious problems for people with allergies and asthma. In addition, the moisture can lead to rodents and insects entering your house.
Using a sump pump can reduce your electricity bills. When the water reaches a certain level, it triggers the pump to turn on. It then pumps the excess water into a drain or away from your home to prevent flooding and protect the structure of your home’s foundation.
If you have a sump pump, it is important to regularly check and clean it. During the inspection, the plumbing specialist can ensure that no debris has clogged the drain and that it is working properly. Moreover, they can check that your down spouts are not connected to the City’s sanitary sewer system, which can cause sewage to back up into your basement and homes of your neighbors.
Saves Money
When water seeps into the ground around a house’s foundation, it places huge pressure against that foundation and can cause cracking over time. The sump pump takes that pressure off of the foundation and saves the homeowner from having to spend money on repairing those cracks.
Homeowners should be sure to test the sump pump regularly to make sure it is working correctly. To do this, they should remove the screen at the end of the drain pipe (if there is one) and rinse it off. They should also remove any debris that might be blocking the drain.
Flooding, rainwater, and storms can leave a home with serious water damage that requires costly restoration services. These costs can add up quickly and are often not covered by regular homeowner’s insurance. A sump pump can prevent water damage, and the cost of the installation is often less than the cost of restoring the home after water damage occurs.