Fall is in full bloom and certainly the rain has made its presence known. For those homeowners who have the need for an installed sump pump this is the time of year to consider whether your pump is equipped to handle the rainfall challenges and potential water accumulations of the season.
Here at Steve Mull Plumbing, we want to take time out to help our clients understand the importance of a properly functioning pump. An automatic pump is designed to continuously pump accumulated water out of your basement or crawlspace. It also distributes the water to the outside of your home. In order for the pump to operate effectively and efficiently it is necessary to keep the reservoir or pit full to allow for proper functionality. Your properly running pump will also, when removing excess water, help to reduce the formation of mold spores in your home. Once all the water has been removed from your basement or crawl space there is no water seeping into the reservoir or pit, thereby causing the sump pump to automatically turn itself off.
Which Sump Pump Works Best for Me?
There are two different designs to choose from when purchasing a sump pump for your home. One is a pedestal pump that is designed specifically with an impeller at the base that draws water upwards while the remainder of its structure does not come in contact with the water. A second pump design is that of a submersible pump. This style works entirely under the water and is a very quiet operating pump unlike the pedestal pump. Submersible pumps are also very efficient as well.
If you are in need of a new replacement sump pump in your home, be sure to give much attention to the already installed pump to give you an understanding of proper size and style needed. It is important that your replacement pump is the same size as the initial pump and that the discharge pipe diameter is comparable as well. You can determine these measurements by locating the spec label on your existing pump. This label will clearly indicate needed information, including, but not limited to, the pump’s horsepower. If your existing pump appeared to struggle some and not work as efficiently as you would like, it may be necessary to purchase a replacement pump with a greater horsepower.
Further, our team of professionals suggests replacing an existing pedestal pump with a submersible pump when it comes time to invest in a replacement. A submersible pump not only operates more efficiently and quieter, but it also has a longer lifespan than a pedestal pump. The overall installation of a submersible pump is quick and easy as well. We also want to remind you when choosing your new sump pump to take note of the type of float switch you have. The switch will be either a tethered switch or a vertical switch. The tethered switch is a component of a 14-inch pump and will float upwards on an angle when water enters into the pump thereby activating the switch.
The vertical switch is used with pumps designed with a 10-inch diameter and simply moves directly upward to activate the pump’s operation. These are important factors to take into consideration when purchasing your new sump pump.
Our Team Can Help
If your old, outdated sump pump is not functioning properly, it’s time to invest in a new replacement pump. With that said, the team here at Steve Mull Plumbing stands ready to meet your every need. Our highly skilled and licensed plumbers are on hand to answer all your questions and help with all your important decision making. To schedule your free consultation, or an installation, or to learn more about our high-quality services, be sure to reach out to one of our dedicated team members today. The holidays are coming up fast so we want to take this time to send along, from our family to yours, wishes for a safe and happy holiday season!