The sump pump is the heart of any basement waterproofing system. Whatever waterproofing method you use for your basement, if you do not have a sump pump, it will be difficult to protect your basement. A sump pump collects water in a sump pit and then channels it out of your basement. It is not necessary to be an expert to understand how a sump pump works. Having a basic knowledge of the equipment that keeps your home moisture-free can help you make the right decisions for your home’s well-being.
What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump pumps water out of your basement or crawl space. It is installed in a sump pit or a basin, usually constructed below the main surface of the basement floor. When the water level exceeds a certain limit, the pump automatically turns on to pump water away from your basement. The water is channeled outside via a discharge line that connects the pump to a drainage area.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
One of the major components of a sump pump is a float switch that floats on top of the water. As the water level increases, the float switch also ascends. Once the switch is high enough, it activates the sump pump. The pump pushes water out of the discharge line and into a drainage area away from your home. When the water level drops again below a certain point, the float switch is no longer triggered, and the pump is automatically turned off. A valve installed at the base of the discharge pipe prevents water backflow.
Where Should a Sump Pump Drainage Area Be?
A sump pump should drain excess water at least 10 feet away from your home to prevent soil erosion, foundation damage, and flooding. It can discharge water both above or below the ground or into your yard. It could also channel the water to a storm drain near your house. Choosing the sump pump discharge location ultimately depends on local laws and regulations and your unique property. If your sump pump system does not discharge water in accordance with the local regulations, make sure to update it accordingly.
You should also consider the grading of your property before choosing a drainage location. Ideally, the effluent pipe should be installed at an angle that allows water to flow away from your basement under the effect of gravity.
Types Of Sump Pump
Here are four different types of sump pumps:
Submersible Sump Pump
The most common type of sump pump is a submersible pump, which sits in the sump pit and operates underwater. Since they are underwater and can be enclosed in the sump basin, submersible pumps are often quieter than other pumps. However, because they are underwater, they may wear out faster.
Pedestal Sump Pump
A pedestal sump pump has two separate units: the pump and the motor. The motor sits on a pedestal on top of the sump basin. Pedestal pumps are ideal for flood-prone areas because they can handle larger volumes of water. They are more accessible than submersible pumps, but they are also noisier.
Combination Sump Pump System
As the name indicates, these pumps combine the benefits of a primary or submersible pump and a battery backup pump in an easy-to-install unit. If the primary pump breaks down or there is a power outage, the battery backup pump will take over and protect your foundation from water damage.
Water-Powered Sump Pump
These pumps use water pressure from the municipal source to create a vacuum and suck water from the sump pit. Water-powered pumps are less popular. They have no battery, motor, or moving parts, so they don’t require maintenance and are long-lasting.
Common Types of Sump Pump Switches
Here are some common types of sump pump switches that help maintain the water level and prevent damage:
- Vertical Float Switch: A vertical switch has a float attached to a rod. As the water level rises, the float rises with it until it reaches a designated height, triggering an on switch.
- Tethered Float Switch: A tethered float switch has a buoyant float attached to the pump with a flexible cord. However, the cord can tangle, causing it to get stuck on the pump or the side of the basin.
- Electronic Switch: These types of switches use internal water level sensors to trigger the switch when the water reaches a designated limit. Electronic switches are versatile and work for all sorts of basins.
- Diaphragm Pressure Switch: Diaphragm pressure switches rely on water pressure to detect water levels. When the water reaches a designated level, the diaphragm compresses, starting the pump.
Benefits of Installing a Sump Pump
Nobody wants to deal with the inconvenience of time-consuming cleanup following heavy rainfall or a storm. Here are some benefits of installing a sump pump for waterproofing your basement.
- Sump pumps ensure the structural integrity of your home by removing excess water from the basement.
- They control dampness and humidity, helping to ensure a dry, warm, and healthy basement.
- By keeping the basement or crawlspace dry, the sump pumps indirectly prevent pest infestations and mold growth.
- They protect metal appliances, furnishings, and other structures from rust and corrosion.
Alternatives To Sump Pump Installation
Here are some alternatives for waterproofing your basement. However, most of these solutions are not as effective.
Portable Utility Pump:
A temporary pump can be a cost-effective way to get rid of standing water. They can be used anywhere in your home and are cheaper than sump pumps. However, they do not prevent flooding.
French Drains:
Like sump pumps, French drains direct water away from a basement. However, they have higher installation costs and may not protect the basement during extreme flooding.
Yard Grading:
Another waterproofing option involves modifying the landscaping of your yard to direct excess water away from your home. This option may have a high upfront cost and may not thoroughly address the cause of water issues.
Waterproofing the Walls:
Instead of installing a sump pump, you could consider waterproofing your basement walls. This can be accomplished by sealing cracks or gaps using sealants or caulking. However, this method is not foolproof, and new cracks may develop over time.
Waterproof Your Basement with a Reliable Sump Pump Installation
Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair has been in business since 1973. We provide efficient waterproofing services to homeowners who are ready to protect their property from water damage. Call us for a free inspection today and protect your home permanently.
