Make Sure Sump Pumps Are Prepared for Spring

Sump Pumps Explained

A sump pump is a device installed at the lowest point of a home, usually the basement or crawl space, to prevent flooding, water damage, and other results of flooding. When excess water flows into the sump pump pit, the pump is automatically activated and removes the water, transporting it to a designated area where it will not put the home at risk.

Sump pumps are important to have in areas with heavy rainfall, or that are at risk of flooding, as they protect the home. This post will discuss the importance of installing sump pumps, the different types, and how to ensure they are working well.

The Importance of Sump Pumps

A sump pump removes water that enters the sump pump pit and removes it through a discharge pipe to a designated area where it won’t put the home at risk of flooding and its consequences. Sump pump installation is extremely beneficial as it helps prevent home flooding, water damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards from flooding. It also protects the home’s structural integrity and its belongings from damage due to water.

These advantages of installing a sump pump can also save homeowners money, as repairing water damage, electrical problems, and the home’s foundation or structure, replacing damaged belongings, and getting mold remediation can all be costly effects of flooding. Flooding can also cause health problems due to mold and mildew growth, which can cause allergy-like symptoms.

Primary Types of Sump Pumps

There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. A submersible sump pump is the most powerful of the two and operates quieter since it gets submerged underwater. However, submersible sump pumps are often more expensive and have a shorter lifespan. A pedestal sump pump is the more affordable of the two with a longer lifespan. However, instead of sitting submerged in water, the motor is kept dry at all times, so they are louder and less powerful.

Additionally, it’s important to note that these primary types of sump pumps run on electricity, so many homeowners also choose to install a backup. These sump pump backup options, like a battery backup, ensure the home remains protected during power outages that can occur during severe storms that cause flooding.

Testing and Maintaining the Sump Pump

When sump pumps are already installed in homes, it’s essential to ensure they work before flooding occurs. An effective way to make sure they work correctly is with routine maintenance and testing. A plumber can perform routine maintenance and inspections to find and fix any issues with a sump pump before they lead to costly consequences, while homeowners can perform routine testing.

Homeowners can easily test their sump pump by slowly pouring water from a bucket into the sump pump basin. Once the float switch triggers the sump pump to turn on automatically, homeowners should stop pouring water into it. The sump pump should automatically turn on, remove the water from the pit, and then turn off. If there are any problems during this automatic process, it’s a sign to call for a sump pump repair before flooding can occur.

About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains

Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains is a family-owned and operated company serving the Cincinnati area. They offer affordable solutions, on-time arrival, and the latest technology. Call them for sump pump installation and repair services in Cincinnati, OH.