3 Basic Facts about Sump Pumps

Water in your basement is a huge problem. Not only can flood water ruin your belongings, it can contribute to mold and mildew growth and weaken the structure of your building. Sump pump installation in a home or business can save a lot of money and prevent a lot of hassle in cleaning up a mess from basement water damage. Below are the top three things you need to know about sump pumps and why you might want to consider installing one in your own home or business.

1. How do they work?

Sump pumps are systems that are designed to collect water that gets into your basement and divert it safely away from the foundation of your building. Water can enter a basement through joints between the walls and floor, cracks in the walls, or even from broken pipes. Since water always moves to the lowest point, sump pumps are typically installed in that location. The water accumulates in the tank, which holds up to 25 gallons. Once it reaches a certain level, it is then pumped out of the tank and away from the house.

2. Are there different types of sump pumps?

There are two standard models: pedestal and submersible. The pedestal sump pump features a motor mounted on top of the tank, making it easier to service but visible. Pedestal models are ideal for crawl spaces or hard-to-access areas where it won’t matter if you can see it. Submersible sump pumps are ideal for locations where you don’t want the sump pump noticeable. The submersible motor is tightly sealed inside the tank. The main drawback is that servicing the submersible type is more difficult due to its hidden design.

There are also two different types of sump pump motors: electric and manual. With a manual motor, you need to physically turn it on and off. An electric motor has a switch that automatically turns on the pump whenever the water reaches a certain level in the tank. Electric sump pumps should always have power available from a backup battery, so power outages during heavy storms won’t prevent the pump from activating.

3. Do I need a sump pump?

Roto-Rooter plumbers recommend sump pump installation for all homes or businesses that have a structure underneath the ground. Sump pumps can also be useful in crawl spaces and cellars in addition to a regular basement. Even for homes or businesses not located in a flood zone, sump pumps can be a wise investment. Just an inch of water from a broken pipe or a heavy rain storm can cause significant water damage.

If you aren’t sure whether a sump pump is a good investment for your home, give your local Roto-Rooter plumbers a call. They can assess your risk for potential basement flooding or water damage. Roto-Rooter should also be your first call in the event of a flooded basement. Our plumbers are on call 24/7 to address home flooding, water damage, and water restoration and cleanup.