Moisture in a home’s basement can cause significant damage. In addition to compromising the foundation and fostering the growth of dangerous mold, it can destroy furnishings and appliances. Although there are several options for minimizing moisture in a basement, one highly effective method of keeping a basement dry that can benefit many homeowners is a sump pump.
A sump pump is a type of submersible device that is installed into a sump pit that is dug into the lowest point of the home, which is typically in the basement or crawl space. It is designed to help prevent the basement from flooding during heavy rains.
Sump pumps are made up of a motor unit equipped with valves that sense the water level or pressure in the surrounding area. The pump remains in standby until it is needed. When soil becomes over-saturated during heavy rains, the excess groundwater will funnel to the sump pit and fill it with water. When this happens, the sump pump float switch will be activated, and it will turn on the pump.
The pump removes the water that collects in the pit and drains it into a detention pond, dry well, or storm drain nearby. This stops groundwater from reaching the level of the floor of the basement and causing flooding.
There are several models of sump pumps available that are designed to meet the needs of specific homes, but they all operate using the same principles and mechanics.
The Benefits Of Sump Pumps
Installing a sump pump in a basement or crawl space comes with many benefits. These include:
- Reducing the growth of mildew, mold, and fungus
- Improving the quality of indoor air
- Preserving the home’s foundation
- Protecting the basement against flooding
- Protecting appliances in the basement, such as washers, dryers, and extra refrigerators from corrosion
- Creating drier and more comfortable conditions within the basement in every season
- Protecting paint and other wall coverings in the basement from peeling
- Reducing termites and other insects’ ability to enter the home
- Meeting homeowners’ insurance requirements
How To Determine If Home Needs A Sump Pump
Although sump pumps offer many benefits, not every home needs one. A sump pump can be useful in the following situations.
The Home Is Constructed On A Plot That Is Prone To Flooding
Homes built on plots with soil that has poor draining properties, as well as those on low-lying properties or surrounded by hills, have a higher likelihood of experiencing rising groundwater during heavy rains, snow storms, and spring runoff.
The Home Has A Finished Basement
Even if a property is not considered to have a high flooding risk, a sump pump can protect a homeowner’s investment in a finished basement by ensuring flooring, appliances, walls, and furnishings stay dry throughout the year.
The Home Is Situated On A Lot Prone To Heavy Rain And Snowfall
Homes built in areas that experience significant moisture in the form of heavy rains and snowfall can benefit from a sump pump in the basement. If water is left unattended to build up in the basement, it can cause serious damage to the infrastructure of the home and any possessions that are kept inside of it, and sump pumps work around the clock to ensure the basement remains dry.
The Home Has A History of Water Problems
Sump pumps are often recommended for homes that have flooded in the past and those that frequently experience high levels of moisture in the basement.
How Are Sump Pumps Installed?
Installing a sump pump is not a DIY-friendly project, so it is best to enlist the services of an experienced plumber. Here is a look at the steps involved in installation.
First, a sump basin will be set up in the basement floor. The location will be selected with a proper drainage plan and its proximity to a power source. Then, a demolition hammer is used to cut through the basement floor. Second, a hole is dug to accommodate the sump basin.
Next, once the basin has been placed inside the hole, several layers of gravel will be placed inside of it and topped with a stone paver to keep gravel out of the pump and create a supportive platform.
Then, a one-way check valve is connected to a PVC pipe that runs up the wall and exits the basement, carrying water out of the home. This pipe will extend outdoors and empty via a downspout. In some cases where the grading of the land is not adequate for proper drainage, the yard may need to be regraded.
Finally, the crevice surrounding the sump basin is filled with concrete and smoothed.
Reach Out To The Sump Pump Experts At O’Connor Plumbing
If your basement is prone to moisture or flooding, an experienced plumber can assess the area and recommend the best course of action to prevent damage. To learn more about sump pumps and other drainage options for your basement, and for a free estimate, get in touch today with the experienced plumbers at O’Connor Plumbing.