What is a Sump Pump?

If you’re home has ever experienced a flood or noticed water build up due to a heavy rainstorm or plumbing damage, you know that a sump pump can mean the difference between a dry basement and expensive water damage repairs.

Whether it’s a plumbing issue or heavy rain, when water that enters your home will collect in the lowest point first, which is typically the basement? To reduce the damage and to help your basement stay dry, a sump pump is installed in the lowest point in your basement or crawl space.

How It Works

A sump pump is a small pump, typically 2 feet deep, installed into a specially made sump pit below the surface. When excess water flows into this pit, the sump pump’s job is to pump the water out of this pit and away from the building and foundation in order to keep it dry.

A sump pump consists of

• Gravel-bottom basin/pit
• Pressure sensor or float valve
• Centrifugal pump
• Return pipe
• Check valve

When water flows into the pit, it will raise the pressure on the sensor, which will automatically turn on the motor in the sump pump to force water from the pit. Once the water is removed from the pit, the check valve will close to block the water from re-entering.

Sump Pump Types

Although there are various types of sump pumps and components available, the most important key measurements to consider are:

• Pedestal or submersible
• Manual or automatic
• Pressure switch or float valve
• Head pressure
• Power source

The biggest difference in the sump pumps is whether the motor is suspended above the pit or placed inside, and whether it is manual or automatic. A manual pump will need to be turned on before it starts to remove the water from the sump pit.

For any questions about which sump pump would be best for your home or to schedule your appointment for your sump pump installation, replacement, or repair, give Plumbing 911 a call today at (866) 720-0911.