What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a small device designed to pump excess groundwater away from your home to be properly discharged into a reliable drainage system or small body of water. The pump usually sits in a small pit known as a basin and uses a discharge line to remove water when activated. Sump pumps are installed in the corners or against perimeter walls of basements or crawlspaces in homes where groundwater is likely to rise above floor level, causing floods and other water related damages. Sump pumps protect homes from excess rainwater flooding, sewage backups, and reduce risk of mold and mildew buildup from excess moisture.
Sump pumps are activated using built in sensors that detect rising water levels. Rising groundwater flows into your sump basin through a drainpipe, then the sensor activates the pump when the basin fills to a certain level. The activated pump then expels water through a discharge line into a drywell, neighborhood drainage system, or a pond or creek. Sump pumps should be buried at least 5 inches below frost line to prevent freezing in colder months.
Do you need a sump pump?
Installing a sump pump is a smart idea if your home is susceptible to excessive groundwater runoff that causes flooding or excess moisture in your basement. A sump pump can save you time and money while preserving your property and protecting you from health hazards related to mold buildup.
In addition to installing a sump pump, analyze your property for ways to mitigate groundwater runoff at external sources before it enters your basement. This may include cleaning out or installing gutters, re-leveling exterior surfaces to slope away from your home, installing French drains, and waterproofing your basement.
Think of a sump pump installation like buying insurance. Accidents are not ideal for any individual and if they do happen, having extra financial protection can save you thousands. The same idea applies to installing a sump pump. Flooding is not ideal, but if you hear the pump activated you know it is doing its job. Maintaining a dry basement or crawlspace is fundamental to protecting your home from mold and other water damage and could end up saving you loads of time and money if you experience a major flooding event.
Resources:
https://lentheplumber.com/blog/whats-a-sump-pump-and-why-do-i-need-one
https://www.sumppumpsdirect.com/stories/101-How-To-Pick-The-Perfect-Sump-Pump.html
https://www.freshwatersystems.com/blogs/blog/what-is-a-sump-pump-and-how-does-it-work
