What Does A Sump Pump Do What And What Are Your Options With Your Plumber? | San Antonio, TX
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A sump pump is a device that you can install in the lowest point of your premises if you suffer from issues like water logging in the basement. Regions that experience medium to high rainfall at various times of the year often have water flooding the basements and crawl spaces, which are typically the lowest point of the house.
The sump pump gets installed by plumbers into a sump pit especially dug out for the purpose. The great thing about the pump is that it simply stays on standby until it’s needed. When rainwater starts accumulating around the house and the ground can no longer absorb the excess moisture, all the water flows into the sump pit. This activates the sump pump float switch that turns on automatically, putting the pump in motion.
The water is pumped out and flows into a dry well, storm drain, or any other place like a detention pond with which the pit is connected. The pump will prevent the groundwater from rising beyond a certain level and flooding your basement and you do not have to put in any extra work. Plumbers can help you install these pumps.
How can you prevent your basement from flooding?
Without a sump pump, your basement is in danger of flooding whenever there is a heavy downpour. There is a risk that any of your stored belongings might be ruined with the dirty water swirling into space- especially if you have appliances like a spare washing machine or freezer.
It is extremely difficult to dry out a basement completely because they usually get very little sunlight and natural ventilation. A dark and moist place becomes a breeding ground for pests and insects and you might soon see a mold and mildew infestation.
Any wood paneling could start rotting if the water gets trapped behind them and you cannot dry them out completely.
The water might seep through the ground and even affect the foundation of your home. Damp basements eventually take on a musty air and they even start giving out an unhealthy odor. You can avoid all of this if professionals around you install a sump pump for you.
Moreover, if your homeowner’s insurance needs a basement flood damage cover, you meet that requirement, too. Plumbers in San Antonio, TX say recommend that if you live in a flood-prone area and you have ever experienced one or more of the damages listed above due to basement flooding, you should opt for a sump pump.
Options for Sump Pumps
You should select a sump pump depending on the kind of water damage you are trying to avoid, and the nature of the terrain your house is built upon. Plumbers near you will be able to inspect your home and the grounds to present the best one for you.
Here are some of the options for sump pumps you can consider.
Pedestal Sump Pump
This pump is ideal for small spaces. If your pit does not have enough room for a submersible and the related piping, then a pedestal pump is installed on a higher level, mounted on a motor.
It is placed on a shaft above the sump basin, with only the vertical float switch reaching down into the basin where the water will start collecting. It is easier for the plumber to reach when it is time for maintenance but you have to make sure that the water will not reach the motor as it is not waterproof.
Submersible Sump Pumps
If the basement has enough space, then this is the ideal pump to install, especially if children go into the basement frequently. This pump, as the name suggests, sits inside the sump basin and is installed out of the way.
It is a lot quieter and also has a longer lifespan. Likewise, it will end up saving you money in the long run. It is also considered more efficient by professionals and it is highly recommended by them.
Effluent Sump Pump
An effluent sump is another kind of sump pump and has a slightly different function. This works only when there is an effluent tank or basin in the premises and its primary job is to remove accumulated wastewater which is discarded from sinks, bathrooms, and laundry.
They can be installed in the septic tank or another pump chamber. This pump ensures that the wastewater from your home does not leak into the basement or other parts of the house in any way and is carried out of the house.
Battery Back-Up Sump Pumps
Battery back-up sump pumps are ideal for areas that experience heavy storms, often resulting in a power cut. Expert plumbers can help you if the power goes off, a regular sump pump will stop working. And your basement will again start flooding despite the pump being installed.
These pumps are more expensive, but they make your pump failsafe in case of a thunderstorm as they keep running on the battery and draining the water, even if the electricity has gone out. They use a marine-grade boat or a car battery and can operate for twelve hours on a single charge.
They also come equipped with an alarm which will inform the resident that the sump pump has started to operate instead of the primary pump.
Contact Plumbers in San Antonio, TX today if you have a basement in your home
If your home has a basement and you want to secure it from flooding, then contact the plumbers at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio today for a home inspection. Our team will tell you which kind of sump pump will best suit your requirements.
We will also take care of the installation and all other related plumbing responsibilities which come with a new pump. We will also help with future maintenance. So, call our plumbers today for a quote and inspection and you can rest easy about your basement.
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