Having a basement that can be used for storage, entertainment, or even additional living space is a great asset to any home. However, there are certain disadvantages to having a basement, and water seepage is one of the most prominent ones. A sump pump is necessary in this situation. To avoid floods and other water-related disasters, it is recommended to install a sump pump – a mechanical device that is specifically built to drain water from a sump pit.
But should you install a sump pump in your cellar? Let’s examine the uses, advantages and disadvantages of sump pumps to help you decide if they’re a good choice for your basement.
Recognizing The Importance Of A Sump Pump
Basement flooding can cause costly damages, mold development, and structural compromise. It is essential to have a sump pump to avoid all those scenarios. The sump pit is a small pit or a basin typically found in the lowest section of a basement that must be pumped out to work correctly. This process channels water away from the home’s foundation, ensuring the basement remains protected from water seepage.
What A Sump Pump Can Do For You
Depending on how bad your basement moisture is, you might want to talk to a plumber about setting in a sump pump. Sump pumps keep water out of your basement and prevent costly damage to your home. A sump pump has a lifespan of around 10 years and may be used regularly and in the case of an emergency such as a flood. Let’s see the benefits of having a sump pump!
The fundamental benefit of a sump pump id its capacity to reduce the damage caused by flooding. Extreme precipitation, melting snow, or groundwater seepage is swiftly drained away!
Next, basements are breeding grounds for mold and mildew due to high humidity levels. A sump pump can prevent the growth of hazardous organisms by keeping the basement dry.
Also, basements are common storage spaces for valuable personal items. These possessions can be protected from flooding by installing a sump pump.
Moreover, the value of the house might be reduced if water leaks occur often. You can protect your home’s value from structural damage caused by water if you have a working sump pump.
Finally, if you live in a location or have a basement prone to flooding, having a sump pump might give you a piece of mind.
Things To Consider Before Deciding About Getting A Sump Pump
First things first – your location. A sump pump may be necessary if you live in a region with a high water table or receive a lot of rainfall. Either way, both scenarios can cause flooding in the basement.
Second, how you put the basement to use is crucial. Even if you use it for storage only, a sump pump is still a good investment. Having a sump pump is important regardless of whether the area is habitable or not.
The quality of the installation is the third most important factor in the efficiency of a sump pump. A professional should be hired to install and connect it to a solid drainage system.
Lastly, sump pumps need routine maintenance to work properly when they’re needed. Checking the pump, cleaning the pit, and looking for obstruction is a must!
Types Of Sump Pumps
In the following paragraphs, we will discuss the two types of sump pumps and the two backup options available. Read on to learn more.
Pedestal Sump Pump
The engine for a pedestal sump pump is located next to the pit. A pedestal pump is the best choice if your sump pit is small or deep and you rarely use the basement. However, a pedestal pump makes a noticeable amount of noise and isn’t particularly effective.
Submersible Sump Pump
The engine and housing of a submersible sump pump are positioned inside the hole. If you plan on spending a lot of time in the basement or need to pump out a lot of water, submersible pumps are the way to go because they are quieter and more powerful. The typical horsepower range for pumps is 1/3 to 3/4 hp.
Water-Powered Backup
A water-powered system is preferable since it eliminates the need for constant battery maintenance and replacement. The higher water pressure of this sort of sump will help clean the water in your basin. Some local governments forbid its installation because of the potential increase in water bills caused by the system’s high water consumption.
Battery-Powered Backup
In the event that the electricity goes out during a flood, a battery backup sump pump will keep your home dry. When the main source, such as electricity or gas lines, are knocked out of commission, the float switch kicks in and keeps everything running.
Conclusion
A sump pump might be a worthwhile purchase if water seepage and flooding are persistent problems in your basement. It’s a good idea to have one if you live in an area with frequent rainfall or high water tables, since it may help prevent costly water damage, protect your belongings, and keep your home from collapsing. It is important to properly install and maintain the sump pump, as well as take into account factors like the basement’s use and location, for it to function properly. If you pick and maintain the right sump pump, it might provide you with the peace of mind you need about your basement. However, if we must decide whether or not sump pumps are beneficial, the answer is unquestionably yes.