Common Signs the Home Needs a Sump Pump

Determining If a Sump Pump Is Right for Your Home

Not knowing about sump pumps is typical for the average homeowner. Sump pumps are necessary for plumbing, but they are not a common plumbing fixture in every home. The term “sump pump” is short for “submersible pump.” Sump pumps are used in several instances around the home to pump water upwards towards a drain. Basements and irrigation systems commonly use sump pumps. 

Homes with sump pumps that have gone bad or homes that need sump pumps that haven’t been installed can fall prey to flooding if the water isn’t pumped out of them. When homes flood, expensive restoration damage is necessary to remediate the damaged area, plus a sump will need to be installed to prevent future floods. The best thing a homeowner can do to prevent this is to know when they need a sump pump and have their existing pumps’ operation verified.  

Signs a Sump Pump Is Needed

The main thing to look for when deciding if the home needs a sump pump is the presence of water in undesirable locations on the property. Sump pumps are very common in basements, especially finished basements, because basements commonly seep groundwater. The seeping groundwater must be constantly removed to protect the home foundation and the improvements in the basement. 

Sump pumps are common in lawn care systems to pump water out of saturated areas. Low-lying areas in a lawn can pool water and interfere with drainage on a homesite. By draining water to some low-lying regions and installing a sump pump, property owners can solve these drainage issues.  

Types of Sump Pumps

There are two types of sump pumps that can be used in a home, depending on the needs of the homeowner. They are “pedestal” and “submersible.” 

A pedestal sump pump has the motor mounted on top of the pumping unit. It is bigger than its submersible counterpart but is generally cheaper to install. A submersible sump pump sits below grade in a puddle of water. Submersible pumps are easier to hide and generally are very reliable, lasting for up to six years. 

How To Choose a Sump Pump

When choosing a sump pump, style and functionality are important. If the property already has a sump installed, it may be necessary to replace the existing pump directly. If the property doesn’t have an existing sump pump, homeowners should consult a plumber. A plumber will help guide homeowners in selecting and placing a sump pump to help avoid the pitfalls of selecting the wrong pump. 

One of the main things a plumber will look at is the sizing of the pump. Sump pumps are rated by flow in gallons per minute. It is important to know the minimum size of the pump necessary and then oversize it slightly to account for emergencies. By taking these steps, homeowners can protect their property from flooding and water damage.  

About A & W Plumbing and Heating, Inc.

A&W Plumbing and Heating, Inc. is a family-owned plumbing contractor in Murphysboro. With over 15 years in the business, they know what their customers need. Always on time, their technicians are sure to communicate clearly with customers and provide peace of mind.

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