What is a sump pump?
A sump pump is a device homeowners set up in their crawl space or basement area at the lowest possible point. It helps reduce floodwater while keeping the basement clean and dry during flooding. The sump pump lies in a basin or pit and forces water out of the area onto the outside drain. It helps drain melting snow from the basement in winter.
How a sump pump works
The sump pumps sit on a basin or pit atop a small layer of stones and in the lowest section of the basement space. The pump starts up when the hole begins to fill with water. It then pushes the extra water through the drain pipes and into the outer well or drainage unit.
There is a unique device inside the pump that controls the water flow. It helps keep the water from running back into the sump basin. Some pumps also work by built-in sensors that trigger the pump when water reaches a certain height.
As the float switch check for the water pressure, the pump automatically starts to work if they sense the water pressure. There’s a type of ball that sits on the water table and keeps the float active as the water gets higher. Likewise, there are manual pumps that start to work only when they switch it on by hand.
Some types of sump pumps include:
- Submersible
- Pedestal
- Battery Backup
- Water Powered
Submersible sump pumps
The submersible sump pump lies underwater inside an inner tube casing. The pump rests at the base close to the drainpipe and also near the top of the unit. There’s a filter cover at the pump pit that helps keep dirt and other particles out of the pump basin. As the water starts to rise, the pump steps in and draws the water up into the bars and sends it away from the house.
Pedestal sump pumps
A pedestal sump pump sits on the outer part of the sump basin and out of direct contact with the water. It operates by lifting the water through an inner pipeline at the base of the sump pit.
Battery backup sump pumps
Battery backup sump pump help provides additional pumping support if your regular pump stops working. There may be a breaker trip, power cut, or pump failure that leaves you without help when water seeps into your basement.
The battery backup sump pump is useful to keep the water levels from rising until power returns. Some pumps can cycle for up to at least 12 hours in emergencies. They also work by battery power and do not rely on electrical current to pump water.
Water Powered sump pumps
Water Powered sump pump works basically on water pressure and does not require power to operate. As a result, it will be very helpful for you on the power outages.
How often should a sump pump run?
Usually, your sump pump should keep running as long as any water is present in low-lying areas around the house. Most pumps function by witching on and off when the water rises and when it drains out.
There are some studies which suggest the pump should run from between three to ten minutes at a time. Other studies suggest it should run at least ten times every minute. On the other hand, they likely cycle depending on the area and other sources of water on the property.
How much does it cost to install a sump pump
While the average installation range between $1,000.00 to $1,500.00, there are a few things to consider. The type and size of the pump you select will have varying costs. Studies show submersible pumps are slightly more expensive than pedestal sump pumps.
Other factors that influence your installation costs include:
Your area
Depending on where you live, your sump pump installation likely cost more or less. Installation costs might vary from state to state, so you should check shop around for the best prices. And for the best sump pumps, you can always check our site for the recommendation.
Who is installing the pump?
According to some studies, if you install the pump yourself, you can save as much as 70 percent of total expenses.
Where the pump sits
The cost of installing a sump pump may depend on where you plan to set it up. Since pedestal pumps rest at a higher level than submersible pumps, they may be cheaper to install.
Likewise, for submersible pumps, you will need to dig a hole and lay a gravel base to set it in position. These factors can increase installation costs.
Pump size
Depending on your household needs, the size of your pump will also have varying costs for installing. The size of it will depend on how much water you expect to pass through the drainage system.
Conclusion
Your sump pump is especially useful during flooding, snow, and other weather conditions. It helps protect your home from flood damage and keeps your basement dry and free of mold and mildew. Sump pumps spring into action when floodwater rises to a level that can cause significant damage to your home’s structure.
Loss of valuables and equipment in your basement may be expensive to repair or replace. Having a sump pump will help provide peace of mind in bad weather and ensure you can rise to the task of keeping your property flood-free.
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