Renovating your house into the home of your dreams is always an exciting process. When the work is done and the mess is cleaned up, there is nothing better than relaxing in your newly renovated basement and enjoying your investment. Unfortunately, this relaxation can come crashing to a stressful halt when the rains fall and the flood waters rise. In minutes, your basement sanctuary can become a disaster zone.
Did you know that 60% of American homeowners experience moisture in their basements or crawl spaces that can lead to flooding or mold? If you live in a home that is prone to excess moisture, having a sump pump installed in your basement could save you thousands of dollars in damages, prevent the health risk of mold and give you peace of mind during rainy and snowy seasons.
Keep reading to find out if a sump pump is right for you and your home.
Do I need a sump pump?
Not every home is prone to excess moisture or flooding. However, homeowners with homes that meet even one of the following criteria should consider getting a sump pump installed in their basement or crawl space:
- Your home is in a low lying area
- Your home is in an area where the water table is high
- You live in an area prone to heavy rain and/or rapidly melting snow
- Your basement/crawl space has flooded before
What is a sump pump and how does it work?
A sump pump is a pump installed in the lowest part of your basement that works to pump out excess water and moisture from your below-ground space. Though you may not realize it, this little pump performs a big and serious job that protects the longevity and safety of your home.
During heavy rains or rapidly melting snows, it is normal for water from the earth to seep into your basement or crawlspace. The problem happens when the water collects and rises, or when moisture stays trapped in that space. A sump pump works to gather this water and pump out all of the excess water and moisture and redirect it outside of your home, usually several feet away from your foundation. This process stops your basement from flooding and collecting excess moisture.
Are there different types of sump pumps?
There are four different types of sump pumps:
- Primary Sump Pumps: There are two types of primary sump pumps. A submersible sump pump and a pedestal pump.
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- Submersible Pumps are completely submerged in a sump pit (sometimes referred to as a sump basin). They work to pump the water out of the sump pit.
- Pedestal Pumps sit on a pedestal with only the motor submerged in the sump pit.
Both sump pumps perform the same job. When deciding whether a submersible or pedestal pump is right for you, consider the amount of space available for installation. A submersible pump works best with a larger pit while a pedestal pump works best with a smaller pit.
- Battery Backup Sump Pumps: Just like the name sounds, these sump pumps are battery powered, rather than by electricity. Battery backup sump pumps are especially handy whenever the power goes out, a common occurrence in some areas during heavy rains or snows. They can also be useful whenever your primary sump pump cannot keep up with the work demand.
- Combination Sump Pumps: These sump pumps are a combination of a primary sump pump and a battery backup sump pump. If you live in an area prone to heavy rains, snows, or power outages, then this pump is right for you.
- Sewage Pumps: Sewage pumps are different from traditional sump pumps, as they are designed to pump waste from the sewage system out of the home. They are either installed in a septic tank or a separate pump chamber.
Installing a sump pump is a big decision and an important step in protecting your home and your family.
To learn more about what type of sump pump is right for you and the installation process, contact Elite Renovations.
