How Sump Pumps Can Keep A Basement Dry
A sump pump collects water in the basement.
Plenty of homeowners value having basements for the extra space they offer. However, moisture is far too common in basements. Besides causing mold and mildew, it also weakens the building’s foundation.
Fortunately, homeowners can resolve this problem by using a sump pump. How exactly does a sump pump keep a basement dry? Let’s discuss more about it in this guide.
How a sump pump keeps a basement dry
A sump pump collects water in the basement. When water rises above the set level, the pump discharges it away from the home’s foundation.
Typically, one installs a sump pump in a pit dug in the lowest point of the basement. According to InterNACHI, the minimum size of the pit should be 24 inches deep and 18 inches wide to keep all its components running efficiently.
Whenever there is water in the basement, it collects into the sump pit. Usually, a sump pump has a sensor or a float. When water in the pit rises to a certain point, the sump pump turns on. When turned on, the impeller in the pump begins to spin, creating a force that pushes water outwards into the discharge pipes connected to the sump pump.
The discharge pipes direct the water away from the basement into a dry pit or a drainage system that prevents the water from re-entering the basement.
A sump pump doesn’t require monitoring. It automatically turns on and off depending on the water level in the basement. This helps to keep the basement dry always.
Types of sump pumps
Sump pump types differ, such as location in the sump pit and performance. The various types include:
Submersible sump pumps
These sump pumps are waterproof and are installed underwater in the sump pit. Due to their submerged nature, they’re more powerful. Although they make noise, the water muffles it, making them quieter than other sump pumps. The only downside is that they cost more than other sump pumps.
Pedestal sump pumps
These sump pumps have a separate motor and pump impeller. Since they’re not waterproof, only the pump impeller goes into the sump pit. The motor stays at the top. These pumps are cheaper compared to submersible pumps. Also, their motor being in an accessible place makes it easy to maintain them. However, pedestal sump pumps can be noisy.
Water-powered sump pumps
The submersible and pedestal sump pumps depend on electricity to pump water out of the basement. Consequently, the water can fill the sump pit and spread to the basement floor if there’s a power outage. To prevent this, homeowners can use a water-powered sump pump. Instead of relying on electricity, it uses water pressure from a home’s water supply to pump water out of the sump pit.
Keep the basement dry
In homes that experience basement water problems, sump pumps can help fix the problem. However, because the issue varies across homes, a homeowner should consult a professional to advise on the best type of sump pump.
If you need honest and experienced professional plumbing services for residential and afford commercial plumbing needs in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Enterprise give us a call at 702-766-3320.
