A Guide to Getting Sump Pumps Ready for Spring

What Are Sump Pumps?

With improvements in building techniques, humans are more able to live in places that were previously inhospitable. Even in modern times, low-lying properties can be difficult to protect from nature, especially rain and flooding. To protect these structures, people should install sump pumps.

Sump pumps are necessary in many homes because they remove water to protect them from flooding and water damage. Here is a quick guide to sump pumps to help homeowners understand their importance and how to make sure they are working.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

Sump pumps are installed at the lowest part of a home, such as basements and crawl spaces, to collect water and pump it safely away from the home and its structure to protect it from flooding and costly water damage. They collect water in a sump pump basin or pit, and once the water reaches a certain level inside, the sump pump turns on automatically.

The part responsible for detecting when water reaches the level to make the sump pump work is a float switch. Sump pump float switches sit in the sump pump basin and float with the water level present. When the level reaches a certain point, the float switch tells the pump to turn on and remove water until it drops to a set point.

Main Types of Sump Pumps

For homes that need protection from flooding, such as those in low-lying areas or homes with basements or crawl spaces, there are two main options for sump pumps. The first option is a submersible sump pump. This type of sump pump sits in a sump pump basin. The motor and pump are encased together so that water is never in contact with electrical components. Submersible pumps are more powerful and quiet than the alternative but are the more costly of the two options.

Pedestal sump pumps are a budget-friendly choice because they are less expensive. These pumps have a motor that doesn’t enter the water or basin, allowing for easy inspection and maintenance. However, this makes the pump’s operation louder, which can be undesirable if the pump is in a finished basement.

Checking Sump Pumps for Spring

Spring is the rainy season, so homeowners with sump pumps must ensure their home is ready. Luckily, testing a sump pump is easy, even for those with little knowledge. To test the sump pump, pour enough water into the basin to trigger the sump pump to turn on. Once the unit is on, it should drain away the water and then turn off automatically. If this doesn’t occur, a plumber should be called to inspect the sump pump and repair it if necessary.

Besides routine testing, sump pumps should also be routinely maintained by professionals to ensure their proper operation. Sump pumps that are well maintained and routinely tested are less likely to experience problems when they are needed the most to protect the home from flooding and water damage.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions offers free estimates on plumbing installations and promises an on-time guarantee for service. Their teams handle residential and commercial plumbing repairs and installations. Call them for sump pump services in Walla Walla, WA.

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