If you have a basement or have experienced water damage due to heavy rain, then you might be thinking about installing a sump pump in your home. Of course, you may have a few questions that you want answered before making a decision. Namely: how does a sump pump work?
In this blog, we’ll show you how a sump pump works and why it’s essential to keep your basement dry.
What Is a Sump Pump?
If you are a homeowner with a basement, it’s important to understand how a sump pump works and how installing one of these devices can play a role in protecting the structural integrity of your home.
Essentially, a sump pump is a device that automatically removes water that has accumulated in a sump basin or pit installed beneath your basement floor. This pit is typically located in the lowest part of your basement, where water tends to accumulate due to gravity. When the water level in the pit reaches a certain height, the sump pump turns on and pumps the excess water out of the pit and away from your home.
How Sump Pumps Work
When the storm hits, the last thing anyone wants is for their home to be flooded. Not only can it cause significant damage, but it can also pose a safety hazard if the water reaches electrical outlets or appliances. This is where a sump pump becomes a lifesaver. But how does a sump pump work, exactly? How can you expect one of these devices to safeguard your home?
There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. So, how does a sump pump work when it’s submersible vs. pedestal? How can you tell these two types of pumps apart? In short, submersible sump pumps are installed in the pit, while pedestal sump pumps sit above the pit. The submersible pump has a motor that’s waterproof and made to handle the rising water level. The pedestal pump has a motor that’s kept out of the water but still has access to it.
When the water rises in the pit, it activates a switch that turns on the motor. The motor spins an impeller, which pushes the water out of the pit and through the discharge pipe. The valve on the pipe prevents the water from flowing back into the pit.
If your primary pump fails or there’s a power outage, a battery backup sump pump can take over. Some backup sump pumps have sensors that detect water levels to turn on automatically.
Why Do You Need a Sump Pump?
If you have water seeping into your basement, it can cause significant damage. Water can damage your walls, floors, and personal belongings. It can also cause mold and mildew to grow, which can be hazardous to your health. A sump pump helps keep your basement dry by removing the water before it can cause damage. When it comes down to it, an installation can potentially help you save money on home repairs in the future.
Call Proactive Comfort for Your Sump Pump Services
How does a sump pump work? As you can see, a sump pump removes water from basements and is a necessity for homeowners who want to prevent water damage and keep their homes dry. Now that you know how important a sump pump is to keep your basement dry and free from water damage, it’s time to take action.
Don’t hesitate to schedule a sump pump installation with the professionals at Proactive Comfort. We’ll help you choose the perfect sump pump to meet your needs and install it to ensure it’s working correctly. Our Nashua plumbers always put customer service and safety first, whether they’re servicing sump pumps or repairing drains. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!