What Is a Sump Pump and Why Is It Used?
A sump pump is a device that helps keep homes dry during flooding. Areas that accumulate snow or rainfall are particularly susceptible to moisture and flooding, and by moving water away from the basement or crawl space to the outdoors, sump pumps help homeowners save money while protecting their homes. This post will discuss different types of sump pumps and the benefits of installing one.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
Sump pumps use spinning impellers that push flood water into the drainage location. This is usually located at least ten or twenty feet away from the home to keep water from flowing back indoors. A sump pump float switch will activate the pump once the water rises above a designated level in the sump pump basin.
There are three main float switches. A vertical float switch will rise with the water level before automatically turning on the pump. A pressure switch is designed for smaller basins and works by monitoring water pressure. Tethered float switches include a floating ball that is attached to the pump. The ball will eventually trip the switch once the water rises above a specific level.
Types of Sump Pumps
There are several types of sump pumps built for flood protection. Each pump removes water from the house slightly differently and has pros and cons. With a pedestal sump pump, the motor is propped up on a long rod to ensure it avoids water. This is ideal for maintenance since it is easier to access. Since the pump is not submerged in water, it does run louder. Although they are typically less expensive than submersible sump pumps, they are not as effective as submersible pumps. A submersible sump pump lies at the bottom of the sump pump basin. This means the device will be completely submerged in water while on but protected by a waterproof casing. The upfront price may be more expensive than the other primary sump pump option, but it is effective and quiet.
Since power outages are common during storms that can cause flooding, battery backup sump pumps are often installed as a safety precaution. The average battery backup can last up to twelve hours without being charged. During this time, they can remove over 10,000 gallons of water. A battery backup combined with an electric sump pump is called a combination sump pump. Once the electricity goes out, the battery is automatically switched on to continue draining flood water. Combination pumps are often used where significant rainfall is likely. If houses are located at the bottom of a hill, a combination sump pump is recommended to keep excessive water from quickly rising above level.
Sump Pump Benefits
Draining excess water from the home or basement during flooding is essential for several reasons. Homeowners save money with a sump pump by preventing property damage costs. They avoid expensive construction and hard-to-fix water damage and help maintain a home’s foundation.
Mould is another common problem. Mould and mildew grow in damp, moist places like basements and can expand to other areas in the home. Getting rid of the moisture and water with a sump pump can help prevent the growth of mould and mildew and the health effects they can cause. Investing in a sump pump can protect the home and a homeowner’s wallet.
About Lodder Brothers Limited
Lodder Brothers Limited has over four decades of experience serving Kitchener, ON, and the surrounding communities. They provide upfront pricing, comprehensive solutions, and a 2-year guarantee on plumbing repairs. Call them today for sump pump installation and repair in Kitchener, ON.
