Sump pumps are becoming a common occurrence in homes these days, homes that are prone to flooding and even new construction homes that aren’t at risk. At Marines Service Co. in Manassas, VA, we regularly install sump pumps in homes in the Northern VA area and know that not everyone knows what they are.
A sump pump is essentially a small pump that is installed in a basement or crawlspace. A sump pump keeps the area dry and prevents future flooding.
Sump pumps are normally installed in a sump pump pit. Water flows from the pit (via drain or the soil) to take water out of the pit and away from the building. When the water is removed from the building, the space stays dry!
Automatic vs Manual
Sump pumps can be automatic or manual. Automatic Sump pumps turn on automatically, either through a float activator or a pressure sensor. Manual sump pumps only turn on when you turn them on. There is a larger margin of error with a manual pump since it is not always on.
Submersible vs Pedestal
There are two types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. As the name may suggest, a submersible pump is mounted inside the sump and sealed. A pedestal pump’s motor is mounted on top of the sump and most often visible. Submersible pumps are typically more expensive and last between 5 and 15 years where pedestal pumps are cheaper and can last up to 30 years. On the other hand, submersible pumps can handle debris without clogs.
Choosing a Sump Pump
When it is time to choose a sump pump, there are several things to keep in mind:
- A sump pump made with cast iron will last longer than one made with plastic.
- Choose a pump with a solid float so there is no way for water to sneak in.
- Prevent clogs by choosing a pump with a no-screen intake design complimented with an impellor.
- Install a secondary sump pump in case the first one fails. It may seem like overkill, but a flooded basement can cause thousands of dollars in damage and ruin your possessions. There are combo packs available so you can purchase two or three pumps at a time.
- Alternatively, get an alarm so you get an alert when the water reaches a certain level.
- A submersible pump can be covered, will make less noise, and keep moisture from getting into the space.
The last thing a homeowner wants to deal with at any time is water in their basement. Even a small amount of water can cause a lot of damage. Any time moisture gets into a space it can bring with it mold and mildew, creating a health hazard.
If you have a basement that is prone to moisture or flooding, a sump pump could be the answer to your water woes. Installing a sump pump is a messy process, but at Marines Service Co. we make it easy. Call us today for a consultation on whether your space needs a sump pump and if so, what kind to get.