A Homeowner’s Guide: Everything About Sump Pump
If you’re reading this blog right now, you are probably considering buying a sump pump Charlotte NC. Stick around if you want to learn more about it before installing one in your home. And if you need a sump pump installed, Crawlspace Xperts can help you with that. But first, let’s dive into more information about the sump pump.
What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a piece of equipment specifically designed to remove water from a basement or crawl space. The pump is located in the basement, beneath (for submersible pumps), or above the floor. Water collects in the sump basin then discharged to the outdoors.
A sump pit is usually constructed to house a sump pump. Water enters the sump pit through drains and natural migration through the soil. It is the sump pump's job to pump water out of the pit and away from the building, keeping the basement or crawlspace dry.
Is a Sump Pump Necessary?
Other homes need sump pumps more than others. But, if your area is susceptible to flooding or has had water problems in the past, installing a sump pump Charlotte NC is one way to protect your home from water damage. Besides defending your basement from floods, here are other benefits that a sump pump can give your home:
- Preventing paint and other wall coverings from peeling
- Protecting basement appliances from corrosion
- Reducing the growth of mold, mildew, and fungi
- Safeguarding from termites and other insect invasions
- Boosting indoor air quality
- Maintaining the strength of your home’s foundation
- Keeping the basement dry and comfortable year-round
- Giving you peace of mind, no matter the weather
- Providing coverage for basement flood damage under homeowner's insurance
What to Look For in a Sump Pump?
- A submersible pump is better than a pedestal pump especially if your sump basin has room. With submersible pumps, the sump pit can be covered with a lid. This decreases pump noise and stops debris from getting into the pit. Additionally, an airtight lid prevents moist air from entering your home.
- Pumps with a cast iron core are better than plastic ones. Cast iron will dissipate heat into the surrounding water, thereby extending the pump's life.
- Choose a no-screen intake design pump partnered with an impellor that can hold solids up to ½-inch in diameter, to reduce the risk of clogs.
- Find a pump with a mechanical switch and a solid float to prevent it from becoming waterlogged, failing to shut off, and burning out.
- Select a pump that provides an alarm when the water reaches a certain level.
Additional tip! Invest in secondary and backup sump pumps.
With extensive experience in crawlspace situations, Crawlspace Xperts shared that there are a few instances in which there is a need for two working sump pumps.
If you live in an area with a high-water table, you may need either heavy-duty or multiple standard-sized pumps to handle the higher volume of water coming in. It’s also best to have separate sump pumps for your basement and crawl space as the two require different types of drainage.
Furthermore, a larger house might require more than one sump pump. You may also install the secondary pump right next to the first especially if your basement serves as storage for valuables. If your primary pump malfunctions or is overwhelmed, the backup pump automatically takes over.
Ready to Get Your Sump Pump Installed?
Crawlspace Xperts are just one call away. Contact them for professional advice and consultation regarding sump pump Charlotte, NC. Contact them today if you need high-quality products and solutions for your home including the installation of a sump pump for your basement or crawlspace.