What Is a Sump Pump?
Basements and crawl spaces are natural collection points for water from rain, snowmelt, and rising groundwater. Without protection, that moisture can lead to flooding, structural issues, and mold problems. Installing a sump pump system is one of the most effective ways to move unwanted water out before it causes damage. This post explains the benefits of sump pumps, compares primary pump types, and explores why a backup system is often essential.
Benefits of Sump Pumps
A sump pump sits inside a sump pump basin set at the lowest point of a basement or crawl space. As water seeps in through walls, floors, or foundation drains, it flows into the basin. When the water level rises, a sump pump float switch activates the pump, which discharges water through a pipe to a safe location outside.
Key advantages include:
- Flood prevention: The pump removes water before it can spread across the floor, helping keep finished and unfinished spaces dry during storms.
- Foundation protection: Lowering water levels around the foundation reduces hydrostatic pressure, which helps limit cracking and shifting of the slab or footings.
- Protection of belongings: Furniture, appliances, stored seasonal items, and mechanical equipment are less likely to be damaged when water is quickly redirected away from the living space.
- Reduced mold and mildew growth: Drier conditions make it harder for basement mold and mildew to thrive, which can improve air quality and reduce musty odors.
By concentrating water in one place and pumping it out automatically, a sump pump installation turns a vulnerable area into a better-controlled environment.
Types of Primary Sump Pumps
Most homes use one of two styles as a primary pump: the submersible sump pump or the pedestal sump pump. Both can work well when matched to the space and budget.
Submersible sump pump: This design rests entirely underwater in the basin. The sealed motor housing allows the unit to operate quietly, as the surrounding water and pit help muffle sound. Submersible pumps are usually more powerful, making them ideal where heavy water flow is expected or where a finished basement calls for quieter operation. However, they tend to be more expensive and can be more involved to remove for service or replacement.
Pedestal sump pump: Here, the motor sits above the basin on a long stand, with only the intake pipe in the water. This keeps the motor out of standing water and makes it easier to access for maintenance. Pedestal models are often more affordable and can offer a long service life, but they are generally less powerful and louder than submersible units. They also occupy more space above the pit, which can matter in low ceilings or tight corners.
Secondary or Backup Sump Pumps
A single pump offers good protection, but even a reliable primary unit can fail or be overwhelmed. Power outages, mechanical breakdowns, or extreme storms can all occur at the worst possible time. Adding a backup sump pump provides a second layer of defense.
A common approach is installing a second electric pump in the same sump pump basin, set to turn on only if the water rises above the main pump’s level. Another option is a sump pump backup powered by a battery. A sump pump battery backup can keep water moving during outages, which is often when flooding risk is highest.
Whether the choice is a secondary electric pump, a battery-powered unit, or a combination, backup equipment greatly reduces the chance of basement flooding if the primary pump fails.
About Plumbing Pals
Plumbing Pals provides a wide range of plumbing, heating, and cooling services to the Ardmore community and surrounding areas. Their knowledgeable technicians provide efficient services, ensuring customer satisfaction. Call them today and get upfront pricing for sump pump services in Ardmore, PA.
