A sump pump is an essential part of your home’s plumbing system, but do you know how it works?
This article tells you everything you need to know about your sump pump, including how it works, what to look out for, and how to maintain it regularly.
Knowing a bit more about your investment can not only extend the life of your equipment but also help ensure that it’ll be ready for the job and running at full efficiency during emergencies (when you most need it).
Read on for five things you need to know about sump pumps.
1. The Purpose of a Sump Pump
The purpose of a sump pump is to collect water that has seeped into your basement. From there, you can choose whether or not you want to dispose of it or use it for something else, such as watering your lawn or garden.
The sump pump’s collection process usually occurs via a series of pipes and valves that surround your house’s foundation. The sump pump itself sits in a pit on one side of your basement.
This is why you may notice some water buildup on that side when heavy rains occur.
In these cases it’s almost impossible to imagine not having this extremely useful piece of equipment to protect your home (mainly basements, lower floors and garages) dry and contents inside from becoming water damaged.
2. How Sump Pumps Work
A sump pump is a mechanical device used for removing standing water from basements, cellars, and other low-lying areas of a building. These pumps are installed below ground level on a floor or a slab foundation.
The whole process can be done in just a couple days with an efficient crew. It does require some heavy machinery though, so depending on your accessibility, it may take longer to plan and execute the full installation of the well, plumbing and placement of the actual pump.
A sump pump works by pulling water from low-lying areas to keep them dry. Sump pumps are often used in emergencies like floods.
3. Preventing Sump Pump Clogs
58 Foundations shares that homeowners can keep their sump pump running by preventing clogs. If your sump pump clogs frequently, there are a few things you can do to help.
To start, make sure debris doesn’t fall into your sump pit. Believe it or not, kids are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to putting things that don’t believe in your pump pit. It’s just too enticing for them to peak in and see what happens if they drop something down in there. Try and explain the importance of leaving it alone. You can also invest in a cage to help keep unwanted tampering from happening.
If you have an outside drain, make sure it has a lid or cap over it. Clogs can also happen if your pump is located in a low-lying area or if your pipes are clogged.
4. Repairing Your Sump Pump
If your sump pump needs repair, it’s best to leave the maintenance to professional plumbers. Thankfully, with regular maintenance, you can mitigate the need for repair. Be sure to check and clean your sump pump once a year.
If your sump is often in use, consider performing regular maintenance more frequently to prevent clogs and the like.
Treat this device as you would any other piece of necessary appliance or equipment in your home. If you want it to last and to perform as it should at it’s fullest capacity then do yourself a favor and do the proper regular upkeep tasks.
5. Replacing Your Sump Pump
As a general rule, you should plan on replacing your sump pump every 10 years. If it is more than 15 years old or is used more than 12 months a year, then it’s time for a replacement.
Likewise, take into consideration that as you upgrade items such as your heating and cooling systems, furnace, and water heater, you may want to upgrade your sump pump as well.
Moreover, if you’d prefer a technologically savvy model, consider an upgrade. Newer pumps can be controlled remotely by an app or voice command through a smartphone making it easier for everyone in your home to know when there is a problem.
Your sump pump system is an important tool to keep your home clean and mold-free. Keep these five things in mind as you work to sump pump functioning properly.