How a Sump Pump Can Prevent Flooding

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Water will always seek the lowest level, which in most homes is the basement. Because of this, flooding in basement can occur in many ways including:

• Drainage tile failure
• Cracked or burst pipe
• Hot water tank failure
• Storm sewer backup
• Foundation cracks
• Broken washing machine hose

When one of these issues happens, give SERVPRO a call. Acting quickly can help avoid further damage. One of the best ways to keep your basement dry and to prevent flooding in the fir4st place is by installing a sump pump.

Types of Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are small pumps that move water from your basement out of your home. There are two different types of primary sump pumps:

• Submersible – contain the pump and motor in one unit and sit submerged in a basin. They are quieter and less obtrusive but are harder to fix and a little more expensive.
• Pedestal – mounted above the floor and consist of a separate pump and a motor that cannot get wet. They are less expensive and easier to repair but are noisier and more obtrusive.

Submersible pumps are usually found in finished basements, whereas pedestal pumps are found in unfinished basements.

How Do Sump Pumps Work?

When pressure builds upon the foundation walls, cracks will form and allow water to leak through. Sump pumps are necessary because they remove water from around the foundation and not allowing that water to slip through. A sump pit collects water from around the foundation, and then pipes attached to the pump push water through a discharge pipe, out of the house, and away from the building. These pipes have a one-way valve to move the water in a single direction, which ensures water does not come right back up.

Sump pumps require electricity, so if a storm were to knock out the power, that would render it useless. A battery backup helps provide some extra security during a power outage. When the power goes out and water rises in the basin, the float switch is triggered and allows your pump to operate normally. Make sure to occasionally check those batteries!

Basement flooding can be costly to repair but losing personal items and family heirlooms can make it a tragedy. Make sure to waterproof your basement as much as possible and take the right preventative steps.