If your sump pump is making roaring sounds, it’s time to install a new one. These strange noises indicate that the motor is nearing end of life and should be replaced soon.
You will also want to consider getting a home inspection and mold test done before the installation of a new sump pump. This is to make sure that the house is dry and free of any water damage.
Cost
Sump pumps reduce the risk of flooding and water damage in basements and crawl spaces. They pump water away from the home and discharge it into an area away from your foundation, preventing long-term damage and improving indoor air quality. They can also help prevent mold.
The cost of installing a sump pump depends on the type and location of your home. A pedestal sump pump is the cheapest option, while a submersible pump costs more. Sump pumps are typically installed in the basement floor, but they can be placed in crawl spaces or garages as well. If you live in a flood-prone area, a sump pump is an important investment.
Many sump pump installations require additional work, such as plumbing and electrical work. Some cities may require a permit to install a sump pump, which can add to the total cost. Some homeowners choose to purchase battery backups, pump filters, water level alarms, and other additions that can save them from significant water damage in the event of a power outage.
Selection
Sump pumps are used to drain water and protect crawl spaces, basements, and outdoor living spaces from flooding. They can also help prevent damage to your foundation and improve indoor air quality by removing excess moisture. This is especially important if you live in an area that gets heavy rainfall.
A professional will dig a pit in your basement or crawl space to accommodate the pump and connect it to a discharge line. They’ll also install a check valve on the pump outlet to ensure that it channels water away from (never back into) your home. This valve is typically installed with a hose or a span of PVC pipe with glued joints and elbows.
The plumbers will connect the pump to a power source via a GFCI outlet. They’ll also create weep holes in the piping to prevent air locking, a condition where air clogs a pump. They’ll also install a float on the pump to trigger the discharge when the water level rises.
Installation
In areas prone to flooding, heavy rainfall and humidity, the sump pump can help prevent long-term damage and improve indoor air quality by removing excess moisture from the basement. It can also prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which could cause health issues like allergies and respiratory problems in your family members.
A professional plumber will dig a hole in the lowest part of your basement and install the pump in a pit. They will fill the pit with gravel and pack it firmly to ensure stability. They will then cover the area around the sump pump with concrete.
The final step is to test the sump pump by filling the basin with water to the level where the float rises and the pump turns on. The plumber will then cover the hole with concrete and leave a drain pipe in place. They will also add a backup pump as an emergency measure in case the primary pump fails.
Maintenance
If you’re installing a new sump pump or replacing a faulty unit, it’s best to hire a professional contractor to do the work. They can help you select the right model and ensure that it’s properly installed. They can also set up a remote monitoring system so that you can keep an eye on your home’s water levels from your smartphone.
A contractor will dig a sump pit in the lowest part of your basement or crawl space. They will make sure that it’s big enough to house the pump and that there is a clear path for water to flow out of it. They will also install a power outlet and a GFCI-protected drain line. They will use high-pressure fittings and PVC pipes to control the flow of water out of your basement and away from your home. They will also create weep holes to prevent the pump from air locking, which can damage it.
