Basements and crawl spaces are especially vulnerable to the damaging effects of heavy rains. Accumulated water in these places can cause mold to grow, which in turn can cause expensive repairs. In this situation, sump pumps are an essential first line of defense against water intrusion and can help keep your property dry and protected.
Types of Sump Pumps
Different types of sump pumps are available to cater to different needs and scenarios. Submersible and pedestal pumps are the two most common types. When in use, submersible pumps remain completely immersed in the water after their installation in the sump pit. Because of their smaller footprint and reduced noise, they are perfect for finished basements. In contrast, pedestal pumps submerge only the pump and have the motor positioned above the sump pit. These can be noisier, but they are easier to access for maintenance.
There are variants within each of these classes. When the water level rises, some pumps operate using a float switch, while others use pressure sensors. Apart from that, there are backup pumps that run on batteries and activate in the event of a power outage, as well as pumps that draw water from your house’s water pressure to drain any standing water. Being familiar with these types will help you choose the right pump.
Why Sump Pumps Are Essential During Heavy Rainfall
Whenever it rains heavily, the soil around your house will become soaked. The hydrostatic pressure that builds up against your foundation as a result of this might cause water to seep through any gaps, crevices or porous materials. A sump pump can help with this. To keep water from pooling around your house and damaging its foundation, it empties into a specifically engineered trench and then pumps the water away.
Homes built on flood-prone ground or in areas with high water tables may require more than one sump pump. These pumps have a dual purpose: They not only keep your basement or crawl space dry, but they also reduce the likelihood of mold formation and enhance the quality of the air within your home, making it a better place to live.
Selecting the Right Sump Pump For Your Home
Your basement’s square footage, the volume of water that usually enters your home and the height of your water table are all important considerations when selecting a sump pump. Assuming your region has considerable rainfall, the pump’s capacity — in gallons per hour (GPH) or gallons per minute (GPM) — should be more than enough to manage the water flow. Large basements or places with serious water problems may necessitate more powerful pumps, but 1/3 or 1/2 horsepower pumps are usually sufficient for most homes.
You should only buy pumps from well-known brands, and you should seek out versions that come with solid warranties and excellent customer service. The first part to break on most pumps is the switch mechanism, so be sure to get one with a solid design. Cast-iron pumps are more costly than plastic ones, but they last a lot longer and are better at dissipating heat. A water-powered pump or battery backup system is a good investment if power outages are common in your region.
Installation Tips for Sump Pumps
Get a pro to install your sump pump. A proper installation is key to the pump’s efficiency and complicated installations are no exception. For the best water collection, an expert will need to situate the sump pit at the lowest point in your basement or crawl space. They’ll make sure the hole is big enough to fit the pump and collect water correctly. To avoid water damage, it’s usually best to divert the discharge line at least 20 feet away from your home’s foundation and install a check valve on the discharge pipe to stop water from flowing back into the pit. An expert can also help make sure there is adequate ventilation if you’re using a pedestal pump, which is crucial to avoiding overheating. To ensure compliance and safety, it’s critical to obtain all required permissions before installation and to follow any local building codes.
Maintaining Your Sump Pump
To make sure sump pumps work reliably, especially during storms, it’s important to have them serviced by professionals regularly. By catching problems early on, experts can lessen the likelihood of basement flooding and save money on repairs. Upkeep consists of visual inspections for damage, sump pit cleaning, pump and float switch testing and discharge line clearance verification. Experts can also check the backup power systems and electrical connections to make sure they’re in good working order.
Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Repair or Replacement
If the pump or switch is constantly cycling on and off, even when there is no water, it could be a sign of a problem. Worn-out or damaged parts can make strange noises like grinding or rattling. Due to decreased efficiency, your pump may be unable to handle the water input if it operates continuously without turning off. Further warning signs include obvious rust, corrosion or a large accumulation of debris. Also, to make sure it keeps working reliably and does not break down when it rains a lot, you should probably replace a pump that is more than 10 years old.
Backup Options for Power Outages
Electric sump pumps become inoperable during power outages, which frequently occur during extreme weather. In the event of a temporary power outage, battery backup systems will activate automatically to keep a sump pump running. Some homeowners opt for water-powered backup pumps, which utilize the pressure of municipal water systems to maintain their operation. However, these pumps do require a sufficient amount of water pressure to operate. Backup generators can also keep your sump pump and other critical house systems running at all times.
How to Test Your Sump Pump Before a Storm
You can test your sump pump before a storm to make sure it will work properly during heavy rainfall. Find a GFCI outlet and double-check that the pump is getting power. To engage the pump and raise the float switch, pour water into the sump pit. Then, see if it efficiently discharges the water. Any strange sounds you hear could be a sign of a problem with the mechanics. Remove any debris from the discharge pipe and check that it properly carries water away from the house’s foundation. Regular testing, such as this, ensures that the sump pump can protect your home from heavy rainfall during a storm.
Since 1987, we have served the residents in Camp Verde, AZ and the surrounding areas and are committed to giving back to the community in a positive way. Goettl's High Desert Mechanical makes it easy to stay on top of sump pump maintenance for you home. We also help homeowners with indoor air quality testing, duct cleaning, ductless installations and heat pump repairs. We also offer plumbing, drain cleaning water heater, water softener and geothermal services. Call us now to book an appointment for professional plumbing services like sump pump installation or repair.
