Things You Need To Know About Sump Pumps

March 17, 2016

The lowest part of a building is typically hidden away, but it does serves a purpose. The dank area is used as storage space. Utility rooms exist down here in a windowless void, cleaning and drying clothes. There's even the occasional games room or spare bedroom in the basement, but let's not forget the low location of this space, especially when the local water table is high.

Excess Water Handlers

Sump pumps are installed in cellars and basements, sunken down and fixed to wells or holes in the concrete. They come in two forms. First among the two types is the submersible model, a waterproof electric motor and pumping mechanism. A float switch activates the pump when the water level in the well rises, which satisfies the autamation requirements of the appliance. The second model is the pedestal-mounted version, a pumping mechanism that's easier to maintain but one that also needs a bit more power because it's situated above the well, sending out extra pipes to suck the water up the well.

Applications Are both Subtle and Dynamic

If a property is built below the regional water table, then sump pumps are likely to be required because water will seep through the ground soil when it rains. That's just a fact of life for some parts of the world. Clay in the soil also hinders drainage, so this can be a regional issue, one that's assessed during a professional building inspection. Then there are threats from inclement weather, times when heavy rain fall for days. The sump fills quickly on these occasions, so the pump must discharge excess water quickly in order to save the basement.

Unforeseen Problems

The pipes are clear, the rain is falling, and the pump is about to switch on. But what if nothing happens? Sump pumps are efficient appliances, but they need electricity to function. A nasty electric storm generates enough water to flood the area, but it also sends bolts of lightning down to knock out electricity. Fit a backup power supply to cope with this possibility and know the pump will operate when the building goes dark. Additionally, check the system regularly by filling the sump manually. Remember, flood water can contain many contaminants, so hygiene is a big factor here.

Keeping the lowest point of the building dry saves stored family heirlooms and stops utility rooms from becoming a wet mess. Additionally, the wooden beams and hard foundations of the building are preserved, protected from the eroding properties of dirty water.

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