A sump pump is a specialized tool consisting of a pump, basi, and discharge pipe. Installed under a structure, it detects rising water and expels it from your property before damage occurs. Explore the top 4 ways a sump pump prevents water damage and why you should consider adding one to your house.
1. Activates Before Water Enters a Basement or Crawlspace
Sump pumps prevent water damage because they start working before the water even enters your basement or crawlspace. As water rises underground, it fills the sump pump’s basin. A float switch detects this activity and activates the pump. Any water rising underground is now funneled through the discharge pipe.
As long as the rising water’s volume doesn’t overrun the pump’s discharge specifications, the basement or crawlspace should remain dry. It continues to pump out the water until the float switch lowers. If the water recedes entirely, the pump automatically shuts off until the next time.
2. Stops Water From Damaging Foundation
Your home’s foundation is a critical support for the entire structure. Consisting of concrete blocks resting on compacted soil, the foundation depends on solid ground for decades of stability. By installing a sump pump underground, you control the water impacting the soil. As a result, the foundation remains strong.
Without a sump pump, water erodes the soil and foundation over time. This scenario leads to cracked or shifting concrete underfoot. Because this ground shifting is gradual, homeowners may not realize there’s a problem until it’s a serious issue. Preventing foundation damage is easier than repairing it.
3. Impedes Microbe Growth
By preventing water from entering the structure, microbes cannot grow. Basements and crawlspaces can be dark and warm, which are key elements for mold and mildew growth. When there’s moisture available, these microbes explode in number.
Ideally, hire a reputable plumber for a household evaluation because they can measure and estimate the number of sump pumps necessary to protect your property. Naturally, larger homes might require several sump pumps to be effective. In short, the plumbers match your home’s square footage to possible rising water volumes. This data translates to one or more sump pumps installed in various locations across your basement or crawlspace.
4. Reduces Damage to Personal Belongings
Water entering the home from underground can damage your personal belongings, too. Items, such as carpets or cardboard boxes, can become instantly waterlogged and damaged with only a few inches of water. Because sump pumps can be installed in unfinished or finished rooms, they prevent water damage at any level.
Ideally, test your sump pump each rainy season by pouring some water into the basin. Watch the float switch activate and verify the water flushes out the discharge pipe. Whether your basement is a storage space or recreation area, water damage won’t affect your property with a sump pump installed.
Protecting your property from mold and water damage is the sump pump’s main duty. Before the next storm, installing a new system provides peace of mind and possible insurance benefits. Overall, sump pumps work hard every rainy season with proper maintenance.