Do You Need A Sump Pump?

If you plan to finish your basement or use it for storage, the last thing you want to worry about is flooding. Water that seeps into the basement during heavy rainfall can be devastating. Not only can you lose your belongings to water damage, but it can seriously affect your home’s foundation and structural integrity. Having us install a sump pump can eliminate these worries.

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a device that removes water from your basement and sends it outside. It carries it far enough away from your home so that it won’t be able to cause any damage to your foundation.

The typical sump pump sits in a pit, or basin, just below the level of your basement floor. It has valves that detect rising water levels and increasing water pressure. When the water level reaches a specific point, the sump pump automatically turns on. It carries the excess water out of your basement through a drainage line to a specific area outside. This drainage area is far from your foundation, so it won’t cause damage.

How a Sump Pump Works

Sump pumps are equipped with a float switch. When the pump detects a high level of water in the basin, this switch turns the sump pump on. It immediately starts pumping the water outdoors. Most sump pumps run on electricity, and they may include a battery backup. This allows the sump pump to do its job, even during a power outage.

When we install your sump pump, we need to pick an area outside where the sump pump can discharge the water it removes from your basement. This area can be a creek, pond, dry well, or neighborhood drain. If possible, you want this drainage area to be 10 to 20 feet from your home. This further prevents damage to your foundation. We’ll make sure your drainage setup complies with all local regulations during the installation process.

Signs That You Need a Sump Pump

The most obvious sign that you need a sump pump is if you have frequent flooding or moisture in your basement. Even if you haven’t seen any flooding yet, you’ll want to consider a sump pump if your home is on a downward slope or near a body of water. Flat land is also a problem. The soil tends to hold water more in these areas, especially during heavy rains.

If you already have a sump pump, you may be wondering how often you should replace it. The average lifespan of a sump pump is 7 to 10 years. If yours is within this range, you may benefit from upgrading to a new, more efficient model.

You’ll also know it’s time for a new sump pump if your current one is constantly running but doesn’t seem to be able to keep up with demand. It may be vibrating or making strange rattling, gurgling, or grinding noises as well.

The Benefits of a Sump Pump

A sump pump can help prevent your basement from flooding. A sump pump will remove the water before it can accumulate and put your belongings and home at risk. This also reduces the likelihood of mold and mildew growth, which can negatively affect your health. Mold exposure leads to an increase in allergies, asthma, respiratory issues, fatigue, headaches, nausea, and more.

By preventing water damage in your basement, you’re helping maintain your foundation’s integrity. You also avoid wood rot, which causes structural damage to your house. You won’t have to worry about your appliances, either. Your water heater, washer, dryer, and any other appliances you may have in your basement will remain dry. A sump pump will even contribute to preventing electrical damage and the risk of fire. Eliminating water in the basement reduces humidity levels. This means better indoor air quality without the need for overusing dehumidification equipment.

Another problem you may not have thought about is how flooding encourages pest infestations. Standing water is the perfect breeding ground for rodents, insects, and other pests. They’re drawn to the moisture and decaying organic matter that comes with basement flooding.

Think of a sump pump as an investment in your home. In addition to the protection it provides, it will increase the value of your home. Potential homeowners see a sump pump as assurance that you’re proactively protecting the residence.

Types of Sump Pumps

There are four main types of sump pumps to choose from.

Submersible Sump Pumps

The pump and motor are in one unit with a submersible sump pump. They sit inside a basin. Since they’re completely underwater in the basin, they take up less space and are quieter when running. They’re less likely to clog, too.

Unfortunately, because they’re underwater, they have a shorter lifespan than other types of sump pumps. Regardless, they’re a popular choice among homeowners who experience frequent flooding.

Pedestal Sump Pumps

With a pedestal sump pump, the motor and pump are separate. The motor sits above the basin on a pedestal. The actual pump is in the basin. A hose connects these two components. The pump will force the water through the hose and outside.

Since the motor isn’t underwater, it has a longer life expectancy than a submersible sump pump. It’s also easier to maintain with the motor above the basin, but it does require more space. It tends to be loud when operating.

Battery Backup Sump Pumps

Battery backup sump pumps provide you with peace of mind. These pumps can run during a power outage, which can be due to the very storms that cause flooding in your basement. When the water level in the basin reaches a specific height, a float switch turns it on just like with a traditional sump pump design.

Water-Powered Backup Sump Pumps

A water-powered backup sump pump uses water pressure to remove the water in your basement. You won’t have to worry about replacing batteries or power outages. The downside is that the additional water necessary to operate this type of sump pump can result in higher water bills.

Reach Out to Rosenberg Plumbing & Air Today

We offer expert sump pump installation and repair to the residents of San Antonio, TX. We provide both residential and commercial services. In addition to helping you find the perfect sump pump to prevent basement flooding, we can help you with other important plumbing issues. Our team offers leak detection and repair, toilet repair and installation, and septic tank services. We also offer video camera inspections that allow us to see what is going on inside your pipes. If you need a new water heater, we have both tank-based and tankless models to choose from. We’re also your home comfort professional. Count on our heating and cooling repairs, installations, and maintenance to keep you comfortable all year long. Our team is familiar with energy-efficient heat pumps and ductless mini-split systems, in addition to traditional HVAC systems.

Contact Rosenberg Plumbing & Air in San Antonio to learn more or to schedule an appointment.