What Is A Sump Pump and Do You Really Need One?

Hearing or seeing the words “sump pump” can cause some confusion if you’re not clear what one is! What is a sump pump? Should I be investing in one for my home? Should you consider buying a home with or without one? Does my pump need maintenance or to be replaced? In this article we will help you understand and answer all these questions!

What is a Sump Pump?

Put simply, it’s the equipment that pumps water from your basement to the outside of your house. A sump is a pit in the form of a hole dug beneath the surface of your basement floor. The pump is kept in this basin-shaped pit. The pump has valves that can detect rising water pressure or level. It will automatically remove extra water from the basement and away from your property using a discharge pipe when the water level becomes too high. A specified drainage area is connected to the pump by a line known as an effluent.

Sometimes when people see a sump pump in a house that they are wanting to buy, they get nervous because they think it signifies the house has flooded in the past. But this isn’t always the case. They are a way to protect your home’s value. If your house doesn’t already have one, you should think about installing one. Now that you know what it is, see the list of common justifications for them below.

Which Homes Should Have Sump Pumps?

Even the smallest gaps in a home’s foundation can allow groundwater or surface water to enter. A home may experience surplus groundwater if it is built on land that slopes downward from a huge hill or hills. In this instance, there is a high possibility that water can get into the basement through foundation cracks. For this reason, a sump pump is a good idea.

Despite the fact that flooding can happen in any home at any time of the year, some homes are more vulnerable to it, particularly in the spring when snow and ice are melting, and strong seasonal rains are starting. In Canada, we are known for having some harsh weather conditions that make a pump essential for keeping your home dry.

The National Emergency Response System (NERS) in Canada has more resources on what to do if there is flooding in your area. It’s a good idea to review the plans that your province has in place to ensure that you are prepared.

Most individuals show off a finished living area with large screen TVs and cozy couches when they invite company over to see their recently finished basement. 

They aren’t bragging about their pump, which was installed to keep them from having to deal with soiled walls, wet carpets, and damaged furniture. We think however, that a sump pump is something to brag about and an essential for every finished basement to safeguard the investment. 

Sump pumps protect basements not just from floods but also from considerably less intense moisture that can support the growth of mold.

Mold thrives in damp environments, therefore it can flourish particularly well next to breaches and places where flooding has taken place. The majority of the common materials found in basements, such as cardboard boxes, ceiling tiles, insulation, drywall, carpet, and upholstery, are also susceptible to mold growth.

Mold can cause symptoms ranging from stuffy noses, throat irritation, and coughing to eye irritation and skin irritation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, the CDC has discovered connections between mold and more serious health issues.

How Do I Know If I Need a A Pump?

As you have read, these pumps eliminate moisture and help to prevent flooding in your basement. In Canada, 60 percent of all houses suffer below ground wetness. Within the first 20 years there is an 80 to 90 percent chance of leakage within block foundations. New concrete basement construction frequently has cracks.

Although it is simple to fix from the outside, you should get yours checked. One of our experts can discuss with you your options for preventing moisture which may include sump pump installation or basement waterproofing.

If I Have One, Do I Need a Backup?

The majority of primary sump pumps are hardwired into a property, which could be problematic if a powerful storm takes out the power. Having a totally independent pump as a backup can give your home additional protection from other issues that could cause a failure, even if many come with a battery backup. Heavy rains that your primary pump might not be able to handle can also be helped by an additional pump.

To assure operation in the event of a power loss, a battery-powered backup pump is put right next to the primary pump. The main pump should be set a little higher than the location where the separate float switch determines where the water line must be in order to activate. The backup will take over if the primary ever stops working.

NOTE: NEVER USE A BACKUP SUMP PUMP AS A PRIMARY SUMP PUMP. They are just intended to support you during emergencies until the main pump starts working.

If you’re still unsure if you need a backup one, contact one of our specialists who will help you decide what the best option is for you.

I Need A Sump Pump, What Are My Next Steps?

If after reading this blog, you’ve gone from asking, “What Is A Sump Pump” to knowing that you need one, your next step is to contact our Wise Cracks Waterproofing Specialists.

They will expertly guide you through the entire process, making it easy and stress-free for all your needs to be met!

We look forward to helping you!