A sump pump can prevent basement flooding and costly home damage from mold, mildew, and pests. It also eliminates dangerous standing water that can pose health problems to people with allergies and other respiratory ailments.
To keep a sump pump working properly, it’s important to get regular maintenance from top-rated pros in the area. Ask a few questions and get free, no-commitment project estimates.
Cost
If you live in an area prone to flooding, it’s important to invest in a sump pump. These devices collect water in a pit and then drain it outside, preventing expensive home damage and avoiding mold or mildew buildup. There are two main types of pumps: pedestal and submersible. The best type of pump for you depends on how much water you need to deal with. A licensed plumber can help you decide on the right size for your home.
Installing a new pump is costly. The process involves digging and lining a pit, so it’s best to leave the work to professionals. The cost can also increase if the floor of your basement is concrete. This material is harder to dig through than dirt floors, driving up installation costs. Many sump pumps have battery backups, which can be a smart investment for homes in areas prone to power outages and floods. However, these units typically cost hundreds more to install than those without a battery backup.
Types
A sump pump impedes basement flooding and prevents water damage by draining moisture away from your home. It is usually located in a pit or hole at the lowest point of your basement floor. Water funnels toward it and activates the sump pump when it reaches a certain level. Then, the pump pumps out the water into a dry well, detention pond, or storm drain.
A battery-powered or water-powered backup can be installed as a safety measure in case the primary sump pump fails. Depending on your needs, you can choose from pedestal or submersible pumps. Pedestal sump pumps are easier to troubleshoot than submersible ones because they don’t live in the water.
If your sump pump makes unusual noises, takes an inordinate amount of time to pump water, or accumulates rust and foreign materials, it may be time to get a replacement. Contact a top-rated pro in your area for free project estimates.
Installation
A sump pump prevents residential flooding by draining water away from the house before it reaches it. It can be located in a basement, crawl space or outdoor sump pit. A battery backup will keep it working during a power outage. There are different types of pumps that come in various price ranges. They include pedestal pumps, submersible pumps and combination models.
To install a new pump, first dig the pit and line it with pebbles to provide a solid base for the sump basin. A 10×10 patio block should be placed at the bottom of the bucket to reduce vibration. It is important to locate the pump in the lowest spot possible so it will be ready to work at the first sign of water.
Next, cut the discharge pipe a few inches longer than the measurement you made. Make sure the float valve can rise and fall freely to activate the switch and turn on the pump. Run a hose or plumbing pipe from the discharge valve to your home exterior. This will direct the water away from the house and ensure it cannot drain back into the basin.
Maintenance
Most homes built below the water line or in flood prone areas need a sump pump to prevent costly basement flooding. A sump pump works by collecting and draining the excess water into a pipe, protecting your home from mold or mildew buildup and structural damage.
Like other plumbing appliances, sump pumps can break down over time. However, a regular maintenance service can help keep your sump pump working. Your service technician will check the float switch for any problems and clean out the sump pit to remove debris.
If your sump pump is making strange noises or consuming too much energy, it may be time for a replacement. A professional can install a new system that channels the water away from your house, saving you thousands in potential damages.
