What is a Sump Pump and What is it Used For?

The word “sump pump” might not be part of your everyday vocabulary – until you face the daunting challenge of basement flooding or excessive moisture under your home.

On the bright side, it doesn’t have to come to that point. Understanding sump pumps, how they work, and how to keep them in working condition can help you keep your basement dry and protect your home from extensive water damage.

Whether you’re encountering these terms for the first time or simply looking for a refresher on keeping your basement dry, we’ll answer some vital questions regarding your sump pump and the necessary maintenance.

• What is a Sump Pump?
• The Different Types of Sump Pumps
• How Does a Sump Pump Work?
• The Benefits of Having a Sump Pump in Your Home
• Who Needs a Sump Pump?
• Sump Pump Maintenance: How To Clean a Sump Pump
• How To Reset a Sump Pump Signs Your Sump Pump Needs To Be Replaced

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a crucial plumbing component for homeowners, particularly those in areas prone to basement flooding.

This automatic pump mechanism is designed to help keep your basement dry by diverting water away from your home. It’s installed in the lowest part of the basement and kicks into action when water levels rise, ensuring that this unwanted water doesn’t cause havoc in your home.

Whether you’re new to sump pumps or simply need a refresher, here’s a breakdown of the parts you need to be familiar with:

The sump pit is a basin carved into the ground of your basement or crawlspace. It collects excess water from rain, groundwater, or melting snow. As the pit fills, the sump pump is activated to remove this water and drain it away from your property. This ultimately prevents flooding and dampness, which can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage.

The sump pump is made up of these fundamental parts:

• Float Switch: This component activates the pump when the water in the pit reaches a certain height and stops it once the water is sufficiently drained.
• Motor and Impeller: These two components spin and push water out of the pit and through the discharge pipe.

The discharge pipe is where water is expelled from the sump pit. It channels water away from your home’s foundation, usually to a well-drained area like a storm drain or a dry well.

Finally, we have the check valve, a one-way valve that keeps water from flowing back into the sump pit after it is pumped out. This is essential to maintaining the pump’s efficiency and preventing a cycle of re-pumping the same water.

The Different Types of Sump Pumps

Not all sump pumps are the same, and you have several options when choosing one for your home. Understanding the different types of sump pumps can help you get started if you want to install one or feel you need an upgrade.

Primary Sump Pumps

You have two primary options for your primary sump pump:

• Submersible Sump Pumps

As the name implies, submersible sump pumps are installed in the sump pit and submerged in water. This design allows them to be quieter and less intrusive than other sump pumps.

They’re also typically more powerful and can handle debris in the water without clogging, making them a popular choice for homes with significant water accumulation issues.

• Pedestal Sump Pumps

Unlike the submersible type, pedestal sump pumps have motors mounted above the sump basin, keeping it dry and easily accessible for maintenance. These pumps are generally less expensive than submersible types. Since the motor isn’t submerged in water, pedestal pumps may also have a longer life.

Pedestal sump pumps are an excellent option for a smaller sump basin. However, as the motor is exposed, it can be louder and take up more space in your basement.

Other Sump Pumps

• Battery-Powered Backups

In power outages, which often occur during heavy storms when you need your sump pump most, a battery-powered backup can save your basement from flooding. These pumps are designed to kick in automatically if the primary pump fails or there is a power outage.

Backup pumps are often less powerful than primary sump pumps. Nevertheless, they provide invaluable peace of mind and protection, buying you crucial time until the power is restored or the primary pump is repaired.

• Combination Sump Pump Systems

Combination systems offer the best of both worlds, including a primary pump and a battery-powered backup pump in one pit. This setup ensures you’re prepared for regular water management, power outages, or primary pump failures.

Understanding the general differences between these sump pumps will help you select the right system to effectively protect your property from water damage. It’s still best to consult a professional to get the most suitable equipment for your home. With the correct sump pump in place, you can enjoy a dryer and safer home all year round.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

Here’s a quick overview of how sump pumps work to remove accumulated water and redirect it away from your home.

1. Water Collection: Water is channeled or naturally flows into the sump pit, the specially constructed pit dug at the lowest point of your home.
2. Activation: When the water in the basin reaches a certain level, the float switch activates the pump.
3. Water Evacuation: The pump draws water from the pit through a discharge pipe once activated. The pump’s impeller propels the water up and out of your home.
4. Discharge: The expelled water travels through the discharge pipe and is released a safe distance away from your home’s foundation, ensuring your basement remains dry.
5. Check Valve: Many sump pumps include a check valve on the discharge line, preventing the pumped-out water from flowing back into the basin.

After the water is cleared and the level in the sump pit drops, the float switch deactivates the pump. It’s now ready to repeat the cycle whenever necessary.

The Benefits of Having a Sump Pump in Your Home

This leads us to the question: What is a sump pump used for exactly? What does a sump pump do to protect your home? This section discusses the many benefits of having a working sump pump, especially when preventing water damage and other related issues.

1. Removes Excess Water

As you may be familiar with by now, a sump pump’s primary function is to eliminate excess water that has accumulated in the sump basin.

Large volumes of water can seep into your house during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. The risk of flooding during severe weather conditions also increases exponentially. Without a sump pump, that water has nowhere to go.

A sump pump activates automatically when the water level rises to remove it from the foundation area, preventing the basement from becoming submerged. This is crucial in mitigating the extent of water damage during a flood event.

2. Keeps Basements Dry

A dry basement is critical in maintaining the overall health of your home’s structure. Persistent dampness not only ruins personal property but can also compromise the integrity of building materials.

With a sump pump keeping your basement or crawl space dry, you gain the confidence to utilize that lower level as a livable or storage space without concern for water or mold damage to your belongings.

3. Protects Walls and Foundations

Constant exposure to water and moisture can weaken your home’s foundations and walls, leading to costly structural issues.

A sump pump safeguards these areas by keeping them dry. It also effectively manages water levels around your foundation, preserving the strength and stability of your home’s support system.

4. Reduces Risks of Fires

Homeowners may not instantly associate flooding with fire risks. However, standing water and dampness can increase the likelihood of electrical fires. Appliances and electrical systems short-circuit when they come into contact with water.

A sump pump diminishes this risk by keeping your basement dry. It also helps manage water levels during severe weather events to keep water from reaching your outlets or give you enough time to turn your power off.

5. Helps Prevent Mold

Mold thrives in damp, humid conditions. By removing excess water, a sump pump helps prevent moisture buildup – one of the conditions promoting mold and bacterial growth. As a result, it also enables you to avoid the multitude of issues mold can bring to your home, including unpleasant, earthy odors, property damage, and respiratory problems.

Ultimately, a dry basement contributes to healthier indoor air quality by preventing mold from multiplying and spores from spreading throughout your home. A sump pump can support your efforts to keep your home safe, healthy, and mold-free.

6. Provides Peace of Mind

A sump pump – especially one with a backup power source – offers continuous defense against water intrusion. This can give you peace of mind, knowing your home is well-equipped for the challenges of excess water, even during storms or power outages.

Who Needs a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are crucial devices that keep your home dry. However, not every house necessarily needs one.

Consider installing a sump pump if you meet any of the following criteria:

• Homes located in flood-prone areas
• Areas with high water table
• Regions that experience heavy rainfall or snowmelt
• Houses with basements that have experienced water issues in the past
• Homes with sump pits already in place from previous waterproofing efforts.

Sump Pump Maintenance: How To Clean a Sump Pump

Regular maintenance on your sump pump is crucial to ensure its functionality and longevity. While enlisting professional help is the best course of action for comprehensive care, following these steps can help you perform a quick cleaning.

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you jump into the cleaning process, it helps to have all your tools and materials at hand. Here’s what you’ll need for the job:

• A pair of gloves
• A bucket to collect water
• Plastic sheeting or old towels for the work area
• A garden hose with a spray nozzle
• A tool for scraping debris
• A wet-dry vacuum for final cleanu

2. Turn Off the Power and Disconnect the Pump

The next thing to do is ensure you’re working safely. Before beginning maintenance:

• Turn off the power to the sump pump at the circuit breaker to eliminate any risk of electrical shock.
• Unplug the pump from the power source.
• If possible, disconnect the pump from the discharge pipe to allow for easier handling.

3. Remove the Pump From the Pit
Carefully lift the pump from the sump pit using the handle or by grasping its body. Place it on a plastic sheet or old towel to catch any dripping water or debris.

4. Check the Sump Pit
With the pump removed, check the pit for debris or stones that could hinder the pump’s operation or damage it. Remove any loose items and use a wet/dry vacuum to clean the pit. This is also the ideal time to inspect the pit’s walls for cracks or structural issues.

5. Clean the Pump and Its Components

• Use this checklist to clean all the essential parts of your pump efficiently:
• Inspect the pump inlet screen for blockages and clear any debris.
• With the garden hose or water container, rinse any dirt or mud from the pump.
• Use a scrub brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the pump surface and remove any stubborn buildup.
• Rinse the pump components thoroughly, ensuring all grime and silt are washed away.
• Dry all parts properly with old rags or towels before reassembly.

Cleaning each component carefully will enhance the pump’s efficiency and reduce the likelihood of future clogs or malfunctions.

6. Clear the Discharge Pipe and Check Valve
Once the pump is cleaned, turn your attention to the discharge pipe:

• Ensure the pipe is securely fastened and free of any cracks or leaks.
• Check the check valve to ensure it’s working correctly and not blocked.
• If accessible, flush the discharge pipe with water to clear any obstructions.

By cleaning these essential pathways, you can safeguard against backflow and ensure the pump can expel water effectively.

7. Reassemble the Pump

Carefully reattach any components you might have removed during cleaning. Once the pump is reassembled, ensure all parts are secure and properly placed. You must reattach the discharge pipe and reconnect any previously unhooked wiring precisely as before.

8. Test the Pump
After reassembling your sump pump, it’s time to test its operation. Restore the power to the unit at the circuit breaker. Then, plug in the pump and pour a bucket of water into the pit to trigger the pump. Observe the pump’s performance to ensure it’s activating correctly and efficiently draining the water.

Testing confirms that the maintenance process has been successful and the pump is ready for action when needed.

How To Reset a Sump Pump

Like any mechanical system, sump pumps can suffer from failures or malfunctions that necessitate a reset. Before we delve into our quick guide on resetting your equipment, here are some instances where it might be necessary.

Situations Necessitating a Sump Pump Reset

• Following a Power Outage: Your sump pump may not restart automatically after a power outage. You’ll need to manually reset the system to get it back in operation.
• Debris Accumulation: If debris clogs the pump, it may shut down. Clearing out the debris and resetting the pump should return it to working order.
• Overheating: Sump pumps can overheat and shut off. Once cooled, they may need to be reset before they’ll function correctly again.

Should you ever find yourself dealing with any of these situations, here are the three main steps you’ll need to take to reset your sump pump:

Step #1: Disconnect the Power

For example, when cleaning your sump pump, ensure your safety when resetting the equipment by disconnecting its power before doing anything else. Switch off the circuit breaker and unplug the unit from its electrical outlet to stay safe while you work.

Step #2: Remove Debris

Check the sump pump basin for visible debris, such as leaves, stones, or dirt, which might block the pump’s intake. Carefully remove any obstructions using gloves to prevent injury from sharp objects.

After clearing the basin, examine the pump itself for any additional blockages or tangled parts that could affect its function. Clear out any debris from these areas as well.

Step #3: Turn It Back On

Once you’ve ensured the pump and basin are clear of debris, reconnect the pump to the electrical outlet or turn back on the circuit breaker. Watch and listen to the pump to ensure it’s running smoothly without any strange noises that might indicate a problem.

Then, pour water into the basin to raise the float switch and test whether the pump kicks on. Doing so helps verify that the pump is actively pumping water out and is properly reset.

Signs Your Sump Pump Needs To Be Replaced

Knowing how to clean and reset your sump pump is essential in its maintenance. However, it’s equally crucial that you know the signs indicating it’s time for a replacement to continue protecting your home from water damage.

Here are eight telltale signs that a replacement is more practical than cleaning and maintenance services.

1. Unusual Noises
One of the first signs of a sump pump in distress is strange noises emanating from the unit. Healthy sump pumps operate relatively quietly, so if you hear grinding, rattling, or sputtering noises, it could indicate problems with the pump’s motor or impeller.

2. Frequent Cycling
If your sump pump turns on and off more frequently (known as “short cycling”), it could be due to a malfunctioning float switch, a faulty float arm, or an incorrect pump size for your home’s needs. Frequent cycling can overwork the pump and lead to premature burnout, which may eventually require a total replacement.

3. Motor Failure

If your sump pump motor struggles to start or doesn’t start at all, it’s likely best to start looking for replacements. Motor failure can result from various issues, such as electrical problems, a stuck switch, or simply the equipment reaching the end of its lifespan.

If you’ve tried resetting the pump and checking for any obvious obstructions without success, it’s likely time for a professional evaluation and a replacement.

4. Excessive Vibration During Operation

A sump pump vibrating excessively during operation can point to a damaged or bent impeller, which is often caused by debris lodged in the pump. Unfortunately, the problem doesn’t end there – excessive vibration can cause additional damage to the pump if not addressed quickly. It may ultimately lead to the need for a complete replacement rather than a simple repair.

5. Visible Rust or Corrosion

Rust and corrosion can be the enemies of any metal machinery, and sump pumps are no exception. Visible rust or corrosion on the pump’s outer casing or internal components can significantly impede the pump’s efficiency and indicate that the unit’s structural integrity is compromised.

In some instances, the rust might be from battery terminals or other external sources, but it still indicates possible problems and the potential need for replacement.

6. Age
A sump pump’s lifespan is usually between 7 and 10 years, depending on the model and frequency of use. If your equipment is nearing or has passed this age range, it could be a clear indicator that it’s time for a new one. Components can wear out with age, and the risk of failure increases, even if the pump works fine.

An aging sump pump may also show signs of decreased efficiency. If you notice it takes longer to pump out water or hear strange noises coming from the pump, it’s likely time for a replacement.

7. Water in the Sump Pit is Not Pumping Out

If water is in the sump pit but isn’t being pumped out, it’s a clear sign of a problem. This could indicate a clogged pump, a blocked discharge pipe, or a pump that’s simply not powerful enough to manage the volume of water.

Check for obstructions in the pump and discharge line and clear them if any are found. If the pump still fails to eject the water or cannot handle the amount of water entering the pit, replacing the unit with a more robust model might be your best option.

8. Recent Flooding or Water Damage

If you’ve recently experienced flooding or water damage despite having a sump pump, this is a red flag that your current system isn’t up to the task. Past incidents of water damage can imply that the pump didn’t activate when it should have or couldn’t handle the volume of water.

In the wake of flooding or water damage, have a professional inspect your sump pump as soon as possible. They can determine if the pump was at fault and advise you on whether replacement or repair is the best course of action.

Should the Worst Happen, Restoration 1 Is Here To Get Things Back to Normal

Understanding sump pumps—from what they are and how they operate to the types available—positions you well to protect your home from unwanted water and potential flooding. Similarly, being proactive in caring for and maintaining your sump pump system can save you from the headache and financial burden of water damage restoration down the line.

However, should a sump pump failure lead to flooding and water damage, it’s crucial to have a reliable partner on call to mitigate the aftermath. If you need help with sump pump cleanup after an equipment failure, Restoration 1 is always only a phone call away.

We understand the importance of acting swiftly to prevent further complications and return your property to its pre-damage condition as soon as possible. With our team of experts, state-of-the-art equipment, and round-the-clock availability, you can count on us to pick up the phone and send help in no time.

When you find yourself in need of expert assistance, don’t hesitate to call Restoration 1. Our friendly and knowledgeable technicians will be your support during this challenging time.