A flooded basement is the last thing you need as a homeowner. Even if you use your basement as storage, you still need to ensure it is in pristine condition.
The first step in avoiding a flooded basement is determining if you need sump pumps.
One major factor in determining that you need sump pumps is the location of your home. If you live in an area where it rains or snows a lot, your basement flooding is higher, a sump pump is required. If your home is on a slope, that also increases the likelihood of basement flooding.
Other factors determine whether you need to install it in your house. But before moving forward, you should know what pumps are and why they are essential in your place.
What Are Sump Pumps?
For many homeowners, it is an essential piece of equipment. If your house is located with a high water table or is susceptible to flooding, it can help protect your home from water damage.
Sump pumps are typically installed in the lowest part of your home, such as the basement, and are used to collect accumulated water in the sump basin.
The pump then kicks into action when the water level rises, pumping the water out of the house and helping prevent basement flooding.
Some pumps have alarms alerting if the pump fails and when the water level is too high.
There are two types of sump pumps, and you need to know which is suitable for your home.
Pedestal Sump Pumps
A pedestal sump pump is a type of water pump used to remove water accumulated in a sump pit.
You can use it when the water accumulation is not severe enough to warrant using a submersible sump pump.
These pumps are less expensive than submersible sump pumps and are easier to repair.
However, there is a disadvantage with pedestal sump pumps as they are not submersible. They are more likely to be damaged by debris or flooding.
Submersible Sump Pumps
Many homeowners insurance policies cover only backup sump pumps, not primary pumps.
Battery-operated or generator-powered pumps are available in areas where power outages always happen.
If the floodwater is likely to be contaminated with sewage, professionals recommend that a submersible sump pump with stainless steel housing be used rather than an above-grade pump.
You can also use this type of pump in commercial applications where mechanical equipment must be kept dry.
This type of pump is often used in basement flooding situations to remove water that has seeped into the basement through walls or floors.
Signs That You Need Sump Pumps
Do you need one now that you know what sump pumps are? Here are the signs you need to install in your home.
Your Basement is Flooding
If you have had the unfortunate experience of a flooded basement, you know how much damage it can cause.
Water can ruin furniture, destroy personal belongings, and lead to mold growth. In addition, it can be challenging to clean up a flooded basement, and the repairs can be costly.
Your Home is On a Slope
Most homes built on some slope, whether a gentle hill or a towering mountain, can pose a problem with drainage.
Without proper drainage, water can pool around the house’s foundation, causing severe damage. If your home is on a slope, you may need to install it to help drain water away from the foundation.
Turning on the pump will remove accumulated water in the sump pit and send it outside. Sump pumps are an effective way to prevent flooding and can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
You Have a High Water Table
Essentially, sump pumps are pumps used to draw water accumulated in a sump basin.
The sump basin is typically located in the lowest part of a home, such as a basement, and collects water seeping through the foundation.
A sump pump works by sense when the water level in the sump basin rises and turns on automatically.
Your Basement is Humid
If your basement is humid, it is a sign that there is too much moisture which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
A pump will help remove the excess water and keep your basement dry.
Old Sump Pump is Not Working
If you have an old sump pump that is not working, it may be time to replace it.
Sump pumps do not last forever, and replacing them is vital in maintaining your basement free of a flood. If your pump is more than five years old, it is time to replace it.
Sump Pump Maintenance
Now that we have established that you need a pump installed in your house, you must know how it’s maintained.
Here are ways to keep your pump correctly.
Inspect Sump Pump Regularly
Sump pumps typically have two parts: an electrical float switch and a pump.
Inspecting the float switch and the pump regularly every once in a while is essential to ensure they are in good working condition. If either the float switch or the pump fails, the pump cannot do its job correctly.
As a result, it is essential to perform regular maintenance on your pump to ensure it is in good working order.
Clean Sump Pump Regularly
While sump pumps are low-maintenance, it is still essential to clean them regularly.
Otherwise, they can become clogged with dirt and debris, preventing them from working correctly. In addition, the pump can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microbes if you won’t clean it regularly.
To clean the pump, disconnect it from the power source and remove any debris that has gathered in the impeller or intake screen.
It would help if you rinsed out the pit to ensure it is free of sediment. By taking these simple steps, you can help keep the pump in good working condition.
Replace Sump Pump Every Few Years
Most pumps will need to be replaced every three to five years because these home installations are constantly in water.
In addition, it is crucial to test sump pumps to ensure they function correctly regularly. Homeowners should also consider installing a backup sump pump if the primary pump fails.
Final Thoughts
A pump is essential to any home, as it helps prevent flooding and water damage.
If you are experiencing any of the four signs mentioned in this article, it is time to install a pump. Keeping your pump in good working condition can help protect your home from water damage.
