Sump Pumps: The First Line of Defense Against Flooding

How Sump Pumps Are a Different Form of Insurance

With the recent storms, flooding is on many people’s minds, especially in this area, which is near the hardest hit parts of the country. Basements are prime real estate for flood waters, so basements tend to have a sunken area or shallow pit known as a sump pit or a sump pump basin. It collects the water that has made its way uninvited into the lowest part of the house. A sump pump removes the water from the basement area with little or no work from the homeowner.

Why Install a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps essentially suck the water up from the sump pit or sump pump basin and transport it to another predetermined location. That can be a pond, a sewer grate, or a garden. It depends on the property and what space is available. No matter the space, the water is removed from the house, and the home is safe again. When water accumulates in the basin, the sump pump float switch is activated, and the water is pumped out. 

What are the benefits of a sump pump beyond simply moving water more easily than a bucket? Let’s look at these in the list below.

• A sump pump prevents structural damage to the home.
• It can reduce humidity.
• It can prevent mold and mildew growth.
• It can prevent electric shock from standing water. 

The home can be safer and more sound with a sump pump installation.

Two Different Types of Sump Pumps

There are two primary types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. The names themselves explain pretty well what each one looks like, but some other distinctions must be made. Below are the details of their differences so homeowners can make the best choice for their home.

• Submersible Sump Pumps: This pump sits directly in the sump pump basin water. It is a more powerful model but can also be more expensive. Advantages of the submersible sump pump include:

• It is quieter.
• Takes up less space.
• Pumps more water per hour than pedestal pumps.

• Pedestal Sump Pumps: These pumps keep the motor or pumping mechanism beside the sump basin instead of in it. Though these are not as fast at pumping, they have several advantages:

• They are less expensive.
• They tend to last longer(less wear and tear because they are not in the water).
• They can be used with smaller sump pump basins.

The Need for a Backup Sump Pump

Even if a homeowner schedules regular sump pump maintenance, there is always the chance that a pump will fail. It may not even be the pump’s fault if the electricity is cut off. That is why having a secondary pump or a unit with a sump pump battery backup can be extremely helpful for a household. A battery-powered backup pump can keep working even if the power is lost.

About Marc Francis Plumbing

Marc Francis Plumbing proudly serves Johnson City, TN, and the surrounding areas. They offer fast turnaround services by licensed, insured, and bonded technicians and 24/7 live answering assistance. Call today for sump pump services in Johnson City, TN.

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