Why a Sump Pump is a Necessity in Your Home

Contrary to what some people think, the need for sump pumps is not limited to homes in flood zones or extremely rainy climates. Water can saturate the ground and build up under and around the perimeter of your home’s foundation, and from there, can migrate into your basement or crawlspace. This is especially true if you have a high water table. Have you thought about installing one to keep your basement flood free? 

What You Risk by Not Having a Sump Pump

The accumulation of water can result in any or all of a homeowner’s worst fears, some of which include:

• Flood. If torrential rains occur, the ground becomes quickly saturated, and with nowhere else to go, the accumulating rain flows into the basement, where it can ruin everything stored in the basement, or it can cause structural damage.
• Fire. If the rising water reaches basement appliances like the washer, dryer, water heater, furnace or even worse the panel box, it can short them. Short circuits can easily lead to an electrical fire.
• Mold and Mildew. Even if flooding does not occur, constant dampness provides optimal conditions for mold and mildew. Not only does this result in a musty odor that permeates everything in the basement, but it can also lead to health problems like asthma and skin conditions.

Installing a sump pump to remove water minimizes these risks. It also relieves hydrostatic pressure which can cause cracks in the foundation.

Sump Pits

To effectively rid your home of accumulated water, the sump pump should be installed below floor level. Therefore, step number one is to dig a hole called a sump pit and line it with gravel. Being the lowest point in the basement, the pit will serve as a reservoir for any excess water, whether it enters through a drain or natural migration. It will also house the sump pump.

Sump Pumps

Once installed in the sump pit, a sump pump relies on centrifugal force. As water accumulates and surrounds it in the pit, a float switch or pressure sensor activates the motor. The motor begins to spin, creating a centrifuge within the pump that generates sufficient force to push the water through a discharge line or pipe to a point away from the house.

Now that you understand the operating principle, it’s time to choose the type: submersible or pedestal.

Types of Sump Pumps.

Submersible sump pumps are encased in waterproof housing and installed at the bottom of the pit, while pedestal models are installed above the basement floor and have inlet pipes or hoses that reach into the pit and below the waterline. Pedestal pumps consist of two pieces and are powered by standalone motors mounted on a pole. Each has its pros and cons. Pedestal sump pumps last longer than submersible ones but cost more, but submersible sump pumps have greater pumping power but involve more in the way of installation.

No matter which type you decide on, Crawford Mechanical Services can work on sump pumps and any other plumbing issues in your home. Contact us today to get started.