A sump pump is one of the best ways to prevent flooding and water damage within basements and crawl spaces. A yearly inspection can help keep your sump pump working properly and prevent costly repairs.
Many contractors that do sump pump installation also do sump pump repair. This can save you money because you can use the same contractor twice.
Installation Location
It’s no secret that a properly functioning sump pump is essential for keeping the lowest levels of your home or business dry. However, a poorly performing or even clogged sump can cause serious problems for your property.
A sump pump draws water from a pit and pumps it away from the home preventing flooding and protecting your basement from water damage. Unlike basement waterproofing, which addresses the wetness in the entire space, a sump pump solves the problem for areas that are especially vulnerable to moisture like a crawl space or basement.
Additionally, a well-functioning sump pump helps to prevent pest and insect infestations as standing water is a breeding ground for insects and rodents. It also keeps your electrical appliances safe as standing water can damage wires and potentially lead to an electrical fire. Finally, it eliminates mold and mildew that thrive in damp areas. Whether you’re looking for a new sump pump or need your current one repaired, it’s best to call a professional plumber who does both repairs and installation to ensure your basement stays flood free.
Sump Pit Size
The size of the sump pit is an important factor in determining how much pump power is required. A pump that has too little horsepower will not be able to keep up with the amount of water coming into the pit and will not prevent flooding. A pump with too much horsepower will cause the pump to cycle, turning on and off repeatedly, which reduces the lifespan of the pump.
To determine the size of your sump pit, use a yard stick to measure how many inches the water rises in one minute. Then, divide that number by the pump’s capacity in gallons per hour. If you want to be extra careful, you can also use the pump’s manual to identify the motor’s turn-on and shut-off levels. This information will help you calculate the size of the pumping head (length of vertical distance the pump must lift water to) and the pump’s maximum gallons-per-minute flow.
Sump Pump Type
Several factors can affect sump pump performance. For example, if the pump isn’t sitting straight in the pit, it can shift and jam the float arm, preventing the switch from turning on when the water level rises. The GFCI outlet also needs to be properly wired.
A sump pump system usually includes a one-way check valve to prevent expelled water from flowing back into the pit, and it’s important that the discharge pipe extends away from the house. You may also want a backup battery-powered pump to help clear water from your sump basin in the event of a power failure or primary pump malfunction.
There are several different types of sump pumps, ranging from diaphragm switches that flip up when the water rises to pressure-sensing electronic switches that work by sensing the changing pressure in the pump basin. You can even find a smart sump pump that connects to your home’s Wi-Fi and sends you notifications about its operation, including when the backup battery is low.
Sump Pump Installation Cost
If your home is prone to flooding, a sump pump is an essential piece of equipment for keeping the water at bay. It prevents water damage and protects your property from mold, which can cause health problems for the whole family.
The cost of a sump pump installation depends on the location and type of the pump, as well as the labor involved. The cost also goes up if the crawl space has to be dug up and the contractor needs to use heavy equipment, like jackhammers, to dig a hole.
Another factor is the power source – a battery backup unit works only if there’s electricity, but this option won’t work if you experience a loss of power or a tripped breaker. The best way to avoid costly repair bills in the future is by getting a sump pump installed now. And you’ll have peace of mind knowing your basement is safe from floods and water damage.
