What exactly is a sump pump? A sump pump, plainly put, is an electrical device that pumps water out of the reservoir or pit that serves as a drain for the water. Typically, a sump pump is constructed in either a basement or crawl space of a home and handles water seepage that occurs in the home.
An automatic pump will continuously pump any water out of your basement or crawlspace and distribute it outside of your home. In order for the electrical device to continue to operate effectively and efficiently it is mandatory that you keep the pit or reservoir full so as to allow proper functionality of the pump. When your basement or crawlspace is dry and the water is no longer making its way into the reservoir or pit, the sump pump will automatically stop pumping since there is no longer a need to do so.
Typically, water issues occur in the basement of a home. When a basement becomes wet, not only does it cause damage and harm to any belongings stored in the basement, but the excessive moisture and dampness can create mildew and mold spores that can lead to serious health issues for you and your family. A sump pump helps to remove excess water quickly and minimize the formation of harmful mold spores or mold infestation in your home.
Choosing Your Sump Pump
There are two primary types of sump pumps. The first being pedestal pumps that are designed with an impeller at the base to draw water upwards with the remainder of the pump body designed to stand clear of any water. Next is the submersible pumps that are designed to operate entirely under water. Generally, much quieter in operation than pedestal pumps, the submersible pumps are also much more efficient.
When choosing a sump pump replacement for your home, it is best to inspect the initial installation first. The size of the sump itself as well as the diameter of the discharge pipe will help you determine the appropriate size of pump you will need. When you look at the existing pump, you will see a spec label that indicates useful information such as horsepower. If your pump is working adequately and not struggling at all, then rest assured there is no need to purchase a replacement pump that is a more powerful model with greater horsepower.
The experts here at Steve Mull Plumbing strongly suggest, however, that if your home is equipped with a pedestal pump, then it is practical to switch over to a submersible model since they are both quieter and more efficient. In addition, submersible models have a greater life expectancy and, because they are totally encased in the sump, make for a much quicker and neater installation.
Finally, when choosing the best sump pump be certain to give consideration to the float switch type. There are also two types of switches. A tethered switch type is used with a sump of 14-inch diameter. When water enters into the sump the switch will float upward on an angle in order to activate the switch. The second type, a vertical switch, can be used with sumps of a smaller 10-inch diameter and moves straight upward to activate the pump.
If you experience water problems in your home and want to protect your home from any flooding risks, you may also want to invest in a backup system as well. Should the power go out, your back-up system runs from a battery allowing the water to still get pumped out of your home during a power failure.
Nobody likes a wet basement and certainly nobody gives favor to damaged goods or mold and mildew either. If your sump pump is old and not performing at peak levels, then rest assured it’s time to invest in a new one. And don’t forget, the highly skilled and certified plumbers and specialists here at Steve Mull Plumbing are on hand to take care of your every plumbing need. We look forward to serving you and to providing you with the highest quality plumbing products and services this side of Lebanon.
