What does a sump pump do?
Do you have moisture problems in your crawl space or basement? Maybe you have puddles of water that settle in low spots, or worse, you have frequent flooding that occurs during heavy rain. If you have standing water, a sump pump is an important component of moisture control in your home.
What is a sump pump?
A sump pump is a mechanical device which purpose it is to remove water from location and move to another. A waterproof hole is dug into the lowest point of the crawl space or basement, water is diverted towards this point using a french drain, or drain tile, and then it is expelled by force to a desired location outside the home.
How does a sump pump work?
There are three basic steps for a sump pump to work. First, water accumulates in the sump pit – which is a waterproof basin where the sump pump sits. As the water level rises it triggers a float switch, which is then activated. The pump forcefully pushes water through a pipe that discharges it out of the house and away from the foundation to keep it returning. The distance varies depending on the slope of those outside, but can travel several feet.
Choosing the right sump pump
Sump pumps come in a variety of sizes and power levels. It’s important to get the right one to provide proper moisture control. Horsepower is one important factor. The two most common sizes is ⅓ and ½ horsepower. For most homes, we recommend ⅓HP.
Why do I need a sump pump?
Standing water in your home creates all kinds of issues. Pest control, wood damage, mold, and health concerns. A sump pump will remove the standing water in your area and reduce the damage potential to your home. It creates peace of mind. Knowing your home is protected from water damage creates peace of mind. Finally, a dry crawl space and basement increases your home’s value. There are many benefits to adding this appliance to your home.
What happens if I suspect my sump pump isn’t working?
If you notice standing water in your crawl space or basement after installing your sump pump, you’ll want to check to make sure your sump pump is working. Check the pump, the float switch and the pipe for any signs of damage or debris that can be preventing proper operation. You’ll also want to clean the sump pit by removing any debris or sediment that might be prohibiting water flow or clogging the pump. You can also test the sump pump by pouring water into the sump pit to ensure the pump functions correctly. If it is not running properly, contact us and we’ll take a look for you.
Bonus tip! Winterize Your sump pump
Proper operation of your sump pump can be impeded if the weather is too cold, causing freezing of water and parts of the pump. Be sure to insulate the pump and the pipes. You can also add a little antifreeze to the sump pit. Lastly, it is recommended to use a battery backup system in case of power outages.
At Vance Insulation, we pride ourselves in taking care of our customers’ homes by providing powerful results for proper moisture control and saving $1000’s in energy cost. If you have a sump pump, or think you might need one, contact us today and we’ll take a look, free of charge.