A sump pump is a device that pushes water away from your home to prevent water damage and flooding.
Suppose a heavy storm hits your area, causing possible flooding that could result in problems. With a sump pump, excess water can be pumped away from your home, protecting your belongings and your property’s structure. This article explains how sump pumps function, and whether or not your home should have one.
How Does a Sump Pump Function?
A sump pump is a device that pushes water away from your home to prevent water damage and flooding. It is usually located in a sump pit in the lowest part of a home, like a crawl space or basement. Without a sump pump, this water accumulation could slowly enter the cracks in your foundation, eventually leading to flooding after a storm hits.
Four Types of Sump Pumps
Discover the most prevalent types of sump pumps:
Submersible Sump Pump
A submersible sump pump operates underwater, with the motor and pump inside the pit. These sump pumps can pump a significant amount of water and debris that might have found its way into the sump pit.
Pedestal Sump Pump
In a pedestal sump pump, the motor sits above the sump pit. These sump pumps are narrower, making them perfect for homes that don’t have the space for a large pit. Unlike a submersible sump pump, a pedestal sump pump is noisier and more prone to overheating.
Battery Backup Sump Pumps
A backup sump pump installation prevents water from entering the lowest point of your structure in case your primary pump fails. The most common type is a battery-operated pump. Although these sump pumps are powerful, they might run shorter than water-powered pumps and require more maintenance.
Call B&D Plumbing at 301-595-1141 for a battery backup sump pump installation!
Water-Powered Backup Sump Pumps
Water-powered backup sump pumps link directly to your main water supply line and may run constantly so long as there is water to trigger the system. Like submersible sump pumps, a float switch triggers and opens a valve that releases the water to slide through a discharge pipe. The high water pressure from the main water line moves the water and creates a vacuum effect that sucks the water out of the sump pit and away from your property.
Does Your Home Need a Sump Pump?
If your house doesn’t have a sump pump, you might want to consider installing one if:
- Your home is located in an area that experiences frequent heavy rainfall and flood warnings.
- You have a basement, making it easier for water to enter. Consider installing one to protect your home’s foundation.
- If you live in a wet climate, sump pumps can help balance moisture levels and minimize the risk of mold growth.
- If your home has experienced flooding or water leaks.
Get in Touch With B&D Today!
Dealing with any plumbing concerns that require a professional to step in? Struggling with an absolute plumbing emergency that can’t wait? Let B&D Plumbing know. B&D Plumbing Inc. services the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia. Get in touch with us by calling (301) 595-1141 or follow us on social media including Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. As a small, family-owned business, we understand how important your home is—and we offer exceptional service that matches!