The National Association of Realtors (NAR) ® says that there is a sump pump in every six out of 10 homes. Well, every foundation contractor might feel delighted because of the caution homeowners have, but the good news end there. The National Foundation Repair Association (NFRA) found out that only 29% of these homeowners have actually bothered to know something about these pumps.
The Crucial Role of Sump Pumps
If you live in the lowlands, you appreciate the menace of basement flooding and the devastation it can cause. The latest flood mapping by the U.S Geological Survey (USGS) shows the risk that most homes are exposed to. From Florida to Texas, Ohio, Kentucky to Louisiana, flooding disasters have been announced, and when such storms hit you can bet your lovely and treasured home is at risk.
Sump pumps might be away from sight, but never should they be ignored because they help pump out rising water as the ground becomes soggy or foundation walls leak. As surface water increases and ground water rises, they kick in to pump water collected in the sump pit away from the compound thus saving your basement from debilitating effects of flood water.
Buying a Sump Pump
Well, now you understand the reason some neighbors are not left hauling water with buckets every time the Red River bursts its banks. Nevertheless, you need some background before hitting the market to order a sump pump. Some of the classifications include:
- Submersible pumps: These are made of a sturdy body and are immersed fully into the pit. It is thus specially built to prevent short circuiting. They are regarded as more efficient, quieter, longer lasting, more efficient, safer away from kids, and easier to handle.
- Pedestal style: This pump has an impeller at the base of an impeller and is thus easily serviceable in case of malfunction. The impeller is driven by a long vertical extension shaft. If you have a deep narrow pit, this works better with its float switch and is also reputed to be more economical.
Other classifications involve the type of power used as follows:
- Primary sump pump: This is powered by the same power unit as your home and acts immediately a set water level is reached. It is automatic and does not require switching.
- Battery back-up sump pump: This is ideal when there is a power outage as oft happens during a storm. When power goes off, this one picks up immediately and continues pumping without regular electric power.
There are myriad other classifications as technology in sump pumps evolves, but before purchasing one, make sure you consult a professional contractor who will assess your home’s basement and determine the horsepower required to keep it flood proof.
Other considerations include the electronic features such as alarms in case of malfunction, discharge pipe size, diameter of sump basin, industry standards, such as Sump and Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association (SSPMA), among others.
There you have it, just remember that this simple technological fitting can save you a lot of financial loss. So, call an expert today and explore how to install or maintain your sump pump.
Having started in 1990, we boast expert staff members with collective experience in the industry going strong for over 50 years. We promise our clients superior workmanship and quality in basement waterproofing and foundation repair at budget-friendly prices, capped by a fantastic client experience to ensure your ultimate satisfaction.
We are a local and family-owned business committed to providing top-notch basement waterproofing service and workmanship. We are also actively involved in several non-profit projects for the betterment of our community. In 2020 we celebrated our 30th Anniversary.
