Importance of Having a Sump Pump

Posted By The Eco Plumbers 2 Apr. 2014
Over 60% of homes in the U.S. have issues with below-ground wetness, and even more face basement flooding. If your basement has ever flooded, you understand the level of damage that water can cause. Fortunately, there is a solution to water in basements: sump pumps. Sump pumps are particularly important in the spring as the weather warms up and the thaw begins. Read on to learn more about how the spring thaw affects your home, how sump pumps work, why you need a sump pump, and how to choose the right sump pump for your home.

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Spring Thaw & Your Home
In spring, warm temperatures and new growth aren’t the only changes that take place. One major change in the weather is the thaw. As the temperatures rise, snow and ice begin to melt. Furthermore, spring showers bring excess rainfall. With water both melting and falling from the sky, your home is much more susceptible to basement flooding. The soil that surrounds the basement becomes saturated with water, and that water can leak in through cracks in the foundation, causing a basement flood.

How Sump Pumps Work
A sump pump is a small pump that is installed in a basement or crawlspace to eliminate water and keep the space dry. Sump pumps are installed in sump pits, which are constructed to allow water to flow into them naturally or through drains. The sump pump then pumps the water out of the sump pit and away from your home. In addition, a sump pump can be used to keep a basement drier by lowering the water table that lies underneath the foundation.

Sump Pump Benefits
Sump pumps offer a number of benefits. First and foremost, they ensure that your basement stays drier and warmer by controlling dampness as well as humidity. This in turn prevents mold and mildew from forming. It also prevents infestations of termites and other insects. Furthermore, keeping your basement dry prevents rust and other damage to metal appliances, furniture, wall coverings, paint, and other elements. Sump pumps are also beneficial because they increase the value of your home and ensure the foundation remains structurally sound.

Choosing Your Sump Pump
When considering buying a sump pump, there are numerous options to consider. First, there is a choice between a submersible or pedestal sump pump. Submersible pumps are beneficial if your home has the required space because they allow the sump pit to be covered. This prevents debris from entering the pit and decreases the amount of noise made by the sump pump. If you have an airtight lid for the pump, it will ensure moist air does not make its way into your home.

While most sump pumps are powered by electricity, there is the option of installing a battery backup sump pump or a secondary pump. Installing a secondary pump ensures that even if your primary pump fails, the basement will still be protected from water damage. Choosing a backup pump that is battery operated is recommended because it will be able to continue pumping even if you lose power during a storm.

Do you need a sump pump installed in your home? Call The Eco Plumbers today.

Categories: Sump Pumps