What is a sump pump? A sump pump is a device that helps remove water from a sump basin. We usually place it in the basement, which helps keep the basement dry by eliminating water accumulating in the sump basin. Sump pumps can be electric or manual and come in various sizes.
In this article, we’ll talk about what sump pumps are, how they work, and the benefits of having one. We’ll also cover some of the different types available on the market.
What is a Sump Pump?
A sump is a small area where liquids are gathered. For instance, the sump in your automobile collects oil. Similar to this, houses have a tiny pit drilled into the basement floor to catch the water that filters through the porous soil around the base.
A primary device known as a sump pump senses water in the sump and pumps it via a system of pipes away from the house. Sumps typically have a diameter of 18 inches and a depth of 2 feet.
Gravel surrounds the sump to allow water to seep in. It also has a perforated liner to stop the sump from getting clogged with silt. There’s a hole in the center of the sump that allows water to enter.
How Does A Sump Pump Work?
The sump pump is the critical component of a sump system. It’s a small, submersible pump placed in the sump pit. The sump pump has a float switch that turns the pump on when the water level in the equipment reaches a specific point.
As the water level rises, the float switch rises with it. The float switch turns on the equipment when it reaches a certain point. The sump pump starts to pump the water out of the sump pit and away from the house.
The sump pump is connected to a discharge pipe that carries the water away from the house. The discharge pipe is typically made of PVC and connected to the sump pump with a check valve. The check valve is a one-way valve that prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit.
An electric motor powers the sump pump. The electric motor is connected to a float switch, which turns the sump pump on and off as needed.
Read: Importance of Septic Tank Pumping
Types of Sump Pumps
There are different types of sump pumps: pedestal, submersible, water-powered, and battery-operated backup.
Pedestal
An independent motor and pump make up a pedestal sump pump. The motor is mounted on a pedestal above the basin with a hose leading to the pump’s location. The pump releases water into your chosen drain location via the hose.
Since it is not submerged, the motor usually outlasts conventional sump pumps and is simpler to reach for maintenance needs. It also implies that it can be larger and noisier than the submersible pump.
Submersible
A submersible sump pump is one where the entire unit is placed inside the sump pit. As the name suggests, the motor is submerged in water and cooled, cooling the motor. The sump pit must have enough room to accommodate the pump.
While this type of sump pump is more expensive than a pedestal sump pump, it is also more efficient and has a longer lifespan. It is also quieter since the motor is underwater.
Water-Powered Backup
A water-powered sump pump is powered by your home’s water pressure, making it an eco-friendly option. If you have a reliable water supply, this sump pump can work even if the power goes out.
A water-powered sump pump is typically used as a backup pump in case the primary sump pump fails. It is not the primary sump pump, as it can’t keep up with a heavy water inflow.
Battery-Operated Backup
It is a fantastic method to offer additional protection against flood damage. Your sump pump may still run even when your power is down, as long as you have a backup battery.
A sump pump battery backup is typically used as a secondary sump pump in case the primary sump pump fails, or the power goes out.
Conclusion
Having a sump pump is essential if you want to keep your basement dry. Sump pumps come in different types, each with advantages and disadvantages. Choose the sump pump that best suits your needs. Find out here how it works: https://www.amfam.com/resources/articles/at-home/how-does-a-sump-pump-work.
If you need sump pump service or your sump pump needs repair, contact your local Furnace Repair Winnipeg plumber. We’re here to help you protect what’s important. We also offer sump pump installation services. Give us a call today!
