The last thing you anticipate is getting into your basement right into a pool of water. If you own a home, then you don’t need to go through the above-described situation just to remind you that you need sump pumps.
It is not just bad enough to have a pool in your basement. The damage that comes with it is costly and nothing compared to investing in a sump pump. And as they say ‘prevention is better than cure; you already should be looking to purchase one of the best sump pumps to prevent any damages.
What Is A Sump Pump?
So what is a sump pump? This is a small pump, mostly installed in the basement, to channel or direct water from the sump basins. Basically, they channel water right out of your basement.
It helps protect your basements from the water left behind by heavy rain and/ or rising waters. This leaves you with huge damages and enormous repair costs. There are two main different types of sump pumps;
Submersible Sump Pumps
These are types that are installed in a way that, just like the name hints, are totally submersed. This means they are hidden in the sump basin. They are placed below the water, at the bottom of the sump pit. They need a bigger pit to fit.
Pedestal Sump Pumps
Unlike the submersible pumps, these are more exposed. They are placed on the floor. Because they sit above the floor, they are easy to install. This is because you have easy access to put up the pump and/ or take it down. They are also easy to check and maintain.
What Sump Pumps Do
Installing sump pumps have multiple benefits. It is essential for every home. That is the main drainage in your basement. Without it, your basement would probably be a pool of water. This water comes from heavy rains or underground water.
How Sump Pumps Work
If you take a look inside a sump basin, you will see a couple of holes. Each of these is connected to a drain pipe. Sump pumps are only activated when water reaches a particular level. The activation works by one of the two methods below;
A Pressure Sensor
In this method, a signal is sent to your sump pump when water in the sump basin accumulates to a certain level.
A Floater Activator Arm
Just like the pressure sensor, the switch in the floater activator arm is also activated by a certain water level in the sump pit. But this time it is via a buoyant ball. This floats on the water surface once it reaches a certain level.
Checking And Maintaining Sump Pumps
Like any other systems in your house, you have to make sure that your sump pump is in good condition at all times. This not only ensures that it functions just fine but also prevents you from incurring expensive repairs due to water damage in your basement.
Floodplain areas are less prone to flooding in the basement. So, your sump pump might run frequently. However, in rainy areas, or during heavy rains, it is normal for your sump pumps to run often and frequently, as it is doing more work.
If it runs endlessly, there could be a problem and it is a sign that your pump needs some attention. Look out for overflowing washers, any burst pipes, or other water-related issues. Other reasons why your pump could be running continuously include a frozen drain line, dirty sump basin, small sump pit, and more.
On the other hand, if your sump pump isn’t running, you might want to check if the circuit breaker is blown. Check the floater activator arm, any debris, and/ or buildups, or for any clogs.