What is a Sump Pump?

So, you’ve had drainage channels laid down along the perimeter of your basement or your crawl space. Once installed, they should all be ready to begin guiding any surrounding groundwater to a collection point where the sump pump awaits. But what is a sump pump for? There needs to be something to help make sure the water moves away from your home, and not just flow back up into your lower level. That’s where the sump pump comes in. If you’re wondering “what is a sump pump and how does it work?” Read on to learn about a key part of any basement or crawl space waterproofing system.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

A sump pump is installed in what’s called a sump pit, where water collects to be then pushed out and away from your house via a discharge pipe. Whether it’s during a heavy rain or when a lot of snow begins to melt, water starts to collect in your sump pit as they run around your lower level’s drainage channels. Once the water reaches a certain level, typically this is when your sump pump will go from stand-by to activation. The water gets pumped into the discharge pipe and from there it is pushed to a distant location away from your foundation and home. The aim is to get the water far enough from your home that it doesn’t return to erode your foundation. Including surrounding soil, and put further work on your sump pump. There are several kinds of sump pumps out there, which activate based on different conditions.

Types of Sump Pumps

• Submersible Sump Pumps
  • These are immersed entirely in the sump pit and activate as soon as water is detected. They’re strong and many models can even filter out debris to prevent clogging.
• Pedestal Sump Pumps
  • Also called upright pumps, pedestal pumps have an exterior motor supported by a column. The motor is raised above the sump pit to stay away from the water collecting inside. While they may not be as strong as submersible sump pumps, a pedestal pump may last longer because of their design.
• Battery Backup Sump Pumps
  • Like the name states, these are submersible sump pumps with a battery backup that allows for continual operations. Even in the event of a power outage.
• Water-Powered Sump Pumps
  • Utilizing water pressure from your municipal water source, these sump pumps don’t rely on electricity. Be aware that this will require high water pressures to take advantage of it. Low water pressure can harm the efficiency of this type of sump pump.
• Combination Sump Pumps
  • Utilizing a primary pump and a battery backup pump both built into one package. A combination sump pump can be a very convenient and efficient way to ensure that your waterproofing system is always moving that groundwater out.

What are the Benefits of Having a Sump Pump?

If you’re looking to waterproofing your basement or crawl space against the rainy and snowy weather in your area, investing in a sump pump can provide added protection and benefits that will both help your lower level as well as your wallet…

• Protects your basement or crawl space against flooding and other problems involving groundwater intrusion.
• Keeps out moisture that could harm your wooden structures as well as your basement appliances
• Keeps your basement or crawl space drier, which prevents mold growth and discourages pests from moving in
• Protects your foundation, which saves you from costly repairs
• Having a sump pump installed might help you qualify for homeowner’s insurance for flood damage, depending on where you live

Is a Sump Pump Really Required?

Depending on where you live, you ultimately may or may not need a sump pump. Some areas have climates with more humidity and moisture than others. Depending on your area’s unique climate, it might or might not be necessary. But getting an expert opinion can help you make a more educated choice. Here are some conditions that might make a sump pump necessary…

• If you’re living somewhere like the Atlantic Coast or in the Northeast of the United States, chances are you experience a lot of heavy rain storms or snow. This kind of weather is what can make a basement or crawl space prone to flooding.
• Is your home built on a plot that’s prone to flooding? Check the quality of your soil and see if your property is what would be considered low-lying. If your home is surrounded by elevated areas or hills, your property may be at greater risk of elevated groundwater levels during bad weather. You may also want to check your landscaping and make sure the grading of your surrounding land is sloping away from your foundation.
• History of flooding? If your basement or crawl space has been flooded before, then there’s a chance it can happen again. Installing a sump pump will help keep that disaster from happening again.
• Do you have a finished basement? If your basement has been done up to be another living space, then you’ll want to protect your investment by installing a sump pump.

Keep Your Basement or Crawl Space Dry with ’58!

For many homeowners, their home is one of the greatest investments of time and money. The condition of their home can have a direct impact on their quality of life. This also includes the condition of the lower level of your home, whether it’s a basement or crawl space. Keep your basement or crawl space dry and free of groundwater to help ensure the longevity of your foundation, your lower level, and the rest of your home. Since 1958, ’58 Foundations & Waterproofing has been providing long-lasting waterproofing solutions for basements and crawl spaces just like yours.

We have local offices all throughout the Eastern Seaboard. Whether you live near Atlanta, GA, Baltimore, MD, or Winston-Salem, NC, there’s a team of ’58 experts ready to help.

Whether you need sump pump maintenance or your waterproofing system needs one of our high-power Workhorse sump pumps, you can always lean on ’58! We also offer our own Workhorse OT battery backup sump pump to keep your waterproofing working in the case of primary pump failure or a power outage. Give us a call today to schedule for a free inspection and to receive a detailed estimate! When we’re on the scene, you can say goodbye to groundwater troubles!