What is a Sump Pump and Why Do I Need One?
You may not know what a sump pump is, but in times of heavy rain, you’ll be glad to have one.
Sump pumps are submersible devices installed in a sump pit dug at the lowest point of your house. They are often found in basements or crawl spaces. When activated, a sump pump will keep your home from flooding.
Read on to find out more about how a sump pump works and why you may need one in your home.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
A Sump pump is typically in standby mode waiting until it needs to be activated.
When it rains, the soil around your home becomes saturated. The excess water drains towards the sump pit and fills it with water. This activates the sump pump float switch and turns on the device.
Once the sump pump is on, it begins removing the water from the pit and draining it into a nearby storm drain, dry well, or detention pond. In doing so, it keeps the water from rising to the level of your basement floor and causing a flood.
Do I Need a Sump Pump?
Not everyone needs a sump pump in their home. However, they are recommended in the following circumstances.
Climates with Heavy Rain or Snow: If you live in a region that gets a lot of precipitation, your home will be prone to flooding. Therefore, it may be a good move to get a sump pump installed.
Your Home is Built on a Flood-Prone Plot: If your home has dense soil that does not drain well or if it surrounded by hills, it is more likely to get water coming in that could lead to flooding.
Your Prone to Water Problems: If your basement has a lot of moisture or if it has flooded before, a sump pump will be a wise choice.
You Have a Finished Basement: A sump pump is a good way to protect your basement no matter how likely you are to get storms and floods.
Benefits of a Sump Pump
In addition to keeping your home from flooding, a sump pump limits moisture in your basement in general. This provides benefits that include the following.
- Better air quality
- Less likelihood of mold and mildew
- Less damage to paint and wall coverings
- Less potential damage to appliances
- Discourages termites and other pets
- Better maintains the foundation of the home
- Meets the requirements of homeowner’s insurance
- Increases peace of mind
If you have a home with a basement, a sump pump will help you keep your property better protected reducing the risk of flooding that can cause severe damage. Talk to a professional to find out about installation options and get the reassurance in knowing your home will be safe no matter what the weather brings.
