What Is a Sump Pump?
Few home disasters are as stressful or costly as a basement flood. Whether caused by torrential rain, rapid snowmelt, or a high water table, water intrusion can quickly ruin stored valuables, damage essential utilities, and compromise a home’s structural integrity. Fortunately, there is a highly effective solution: the sump pump. A sump pump is an automatic electrical device installed in a basement or crawlspace pit that collects and ejects excess water away from a home's foundation to prevent flooding.
Understanding the different types of sump pumps available, from powerful submersible units to long-lasting pedestal models and essential backup systems, is the first step in ensuring the home has the defense it needs. This post will discuss types of sump pumps, the importance of having a backup, and the benefits of sump pump installation.
Benefits of Sump Pumps
A sump pump is an essential device installed at the lowest point in a basement or crawlspace, designed to collect and redirect excess water away from the house. When water accumulates in the sump pump basin, the sump pump float switch activates the pump, automatically pumping the water out and away from the foundation. This core function is crucial for preventing devastating flooding, which can cause thousands of dollars in water damage, and instead ensures that water intrusion is proactively managed before it becomes a more serious problem.
Beyond flood prevention, a working sump pump offers comprehensive protection for the entire home. By keeping the sub-structure dry, it safeguards the home’s foundation from cracks and structural failure over time. Furthermore, protecting the area where valuables and utilities are often stored helps preserve belongings and reduces the risk of damage to critical systems such as water heaters and heaters. An added benefit is the reduction in excess moisture, which significantly lowers the likelihood of developing harmful mold and mildew growth, ultimately contributing to better indoor air quality and a healthier living environment.
Types of Primary Sump Pumps
Primary sump pumps come in two main types: submersible and pedestal. A submersible sump pump is designed to sit entirely underwater within the sump pit, featuring a fully sealed motor. This design allows it to operate more quietly and often handle higher water volumes, making it the more powerful option for homes in flood-prone areas. However, this superior performance and contained design come at a higher price point, making it the more expensive choice. Also, since the motor is submerged, it can be slightly more difficult to access for maintenance or repair, and it has a shorter lifespan.
In contrast, a pedestal sump pump places its motor above the sump pit, connected to a pump mechanism at the bottom via a long vertical shaft. This design offers a distinct advantage in terms of lifespan and cost, as the motor is not submerged, which gives it a longer lifespan. It is also generally more affordable to install upfront. However, pedestal sump pumps are typically less powerful than their submersible counterparts and are noticeably louder during operation due to the motor not being submerged, but this also allows for more ease of access for servicing.
Secondary or Backup Sump Pumps
A secondary or backup sump pump is a beneficial addition for any homeowner who relies on a primary sump pump for flood protection. The main vulnerability of an electrically powered primary pump is a power outage, which can be a common occurrence during severe storms when the pump is needed most. A sump pump backup, which can be battery-powered or rely on municipal water pressure, kicks in when the power goes out, ensuring continuous operation and uninterrupted protection against rising water, preventing basement flooding even when the main sump pump is not operational.
Backup pumps also provide a critical safety net should the primary sump pump fail due to mechanical issues. Essentially, the secondary sump pump acts as an insurance policy, recognizing the threat of water and initiating discharge when the primary system is unresponsive. For homes with finished basements or those in areas with high water tables, this redundancy is crucial, offering peace of mind that the home remains protected even in the face of equipment failure or power outages.
About Charles Krull & Son, Inc. Plumbing & Heating
Charles Krull & Son, Inc. Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned plumbing and heating business serving Malverne and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, clear communication, and financing. Call them for sump pump installation and repair services in Malverne, NY.
