If you live in an area prone to floods or heavy precipitation, a sump pump is essential for keeping your home dry. It pumps water away from your foundation and basement, protecting your home from mold damage, warping, and other issues.
You can also protect your sump pump with a home warranty from Select. Its 3 plans include various levels of system and appliance coverage, as well as free roof coverage.
Cost
The cost of sump pump installation is affected by a number of factors, including the type of floor in your basement and where you live. If you have a cement or concrete floor in your basement, the project will be more expensive because digging out the sump basin is more difficult. The amount of water your pump needs to deal with is also an important factor in the price. The more water, the more powerful a pump you will need.
The quality of your existing sump basin is another factor. A heavy-duty, tall basin will cost more than a plastic one. You will also need to budget for a battery backup unit, which costs around $150 to $500.
Home warranty companies like Select and American Home Shield offer plans for homeowners that cover a wide range of appliances and systems. These warranties provide peace of mind and lower your repair costs. They also make your house more attractive to prospective buyers and help you sell it quicker.
Benefits
Having a sump pump in place prevents long-term water damage and makes it easier to restore your property after a flood. It can also help control mold and mildew, which are harmful to health. Excess moisture in the basement encourages these fungi to form and can cause structural damage, allergies and respiratory problems. A sump pump can eliminate these issues by removing the excess moisture.
Installing a sump pump is a relatively simple project for most homeowners. You will need to dig a sump pit and install the basin and the pump. You will also need to connect the discharge pipe.
It is important to note that sump pumps should not be connected to the sanitary sewer. This is unauthorized and can lead to serious consequences. If you’re considering installing a sump pump, consult with a professional to ensure that the installation is done correctly. A professional can also offer a warranty on the pump.
Installation
A sump pump is a smart investment for homeowners who live in flood-prone areas. These pumps help to prevent costly damage and provide peace of mind. While it may seem like a task best left to the pros, installing a sump pump is a simple home improvement project that any homeowner can do themselves.
Start by digging a hole large enough to fit your sump pump basin. Then, use a jackhammer to break through the concrete floor of your basement and create a space for the basin.
Once you have installed the pump pit, create a piping system that runs water away from the basement. Use PVC fittings and pipes to create an automatic shut-off system that operates like a toilet. This piping should run to the sump pump’s check valve, which should be connected to a PVC pipe increaser.
Make sure the discharge point is at least 10 feet from your house and the nearest sanitary sewer line. Also, install weep holes to prevent air locking in the piping. Finally, connect the pump to a power source and secure all wiring with zip ties.
Maintenance
The best way to ensure your sump pump is always ready to protect you from flooding is to have a professional inspect it regularly. A well-maintained pump should last 7-10 years. However, if you neglect your sump pump, it can start failing after a few years and cause major problems for your home.
Sump pumps are located in a pit that sits in your basement or crawl space. They are activated when a pressure sensor inside the pit is triggered. Once the sensor is triggered, it transfers water from the pit through pipes that carry it away and drains in a designated area.
If the discharge pipe becomes frozen, or clogged with debris, your sump pump will not be able to transfer water and will leave you vulnerable to flooding. Adam Mechanical can perform sump pump repair services to fix the problem quickly. Moreover, a visible rust or corrosion in your pump motor may be a sign that it is time to replace your unit.
