What Is a Sump Pump and What Does It Do?
Sump pumps are needed to help keep ground water from entering your basement. When a house is constructed, drain tiles are installed under and around the perimeter of the basement floor. These drain tiles pick up water from around the foundation and direct it into the sump pit.
A submersible sump pump sits in the sump pit (a small hole approximately 2’ in diameter in the basement floor). It’s designed to catch the water that is picked up by the drain tiles. As water fills up the sump pit, the sump pump kicks on and starts pumping the water out through the sump discharge pipe where it is discharged either onto the lawn (grade) or into an underground sump discharge pipe. If the water is discharged onto the lawn, homeowners will want to be sure that the water is discharged a safe distance (approximately 10’) away from the foundation, otherwise that same water may find its way back down along the foundation only to enter the drain tiles where it is pumped out again. It is also important to make sure that gutter downspouts are directed away from the foundation.
Sump pumps usually have a float which triggers them to turn on and off. When the water rises in the sump pit hole, the sump pump float rises as well. When that float reaches a certain height, the sump pump automatically turns on and starts pumping the excess water out. In some homes where there is an excessive amount of ground water an “alternating” sump pump system is installed. This system involves installing 2 pumps in the pit that “alternate” the pumping between each other.
An important accessory that can be added to a sump pump system is a “high water alarm”. This alarm is installed inside the sump pit and will send an alarm should the water in the pit reach a dangerous level. The alarm alerts the homeowner in time to replace or repair the pump before their basement is flooded.
The best way to protect your foundation is to divert the storm water into an underground pipe that is connected to a municipal storm system or ditch. Although a very small number of older cities allow sump water to be discharged into the sewer system, it is against the law in most cities. It is also is extremely bad for the environment. During major storm events, storm water floods the sewer system beyond capacity and causes the sewage treatment plants to overflow into our rivers and streams. It can also cause an extreme sewage back up in the house if the main sewer line becomes restricted.
Water Powered Back Up Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are most critical during and after stormy weather. Unfortunately, this is also when we suffer the most power outages. If the electrical power goes out and the sump pump doesn’t have a backup power source, it will not be able to protect your basement from flooding. Water-powered sump pumps that don’t require electricity are your best option. Water Powered Back up sump pumps use the pressure of flowing water to pump water out of the sump.
What you will love about this pump is how it protects your most important investment – your home. A water powered emergency sump pump is your best choice for a cost-effective emergency sump pump. With this ultra-reliable backup pumping system in place, you will always be able to protect your basement – even if the electrical power fails for an extended period. There is no required maintenance and no battery to worry about. As long as you have city water you’ll have a working sump pump and a dry basement—even if the power fails.
For added peace of mind, A-fordable Plumbing and Mechanical always includes a high-water alarm in your sump basket. This alarm will alert you when your primary sump pump fails or the water level in the sump basket reaches a critical stage.
This is one of the most important safeguards for your sump system, especially if you have a finished basement. Our high-water alarm system can be connected to a home security system to alert you even if you are not at home. Remember – All pumps eventually fail. Knowing at the point of failure allows repairs to be completed before damage occurs. At A-fordable Plumbing, we can normally respond to an emergency sump pump calls within 1 to 2 hours, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
As with any other important piece of equipment, regular sump pump maintenance is always a good idea. A-fordable Plumbing & Mechanical is your #1 Michigan Sump Pump Service. Please call is at (248) 371-0494 for 24/7 assistance.
Sump pump maintenance is usually as simple as doing these few basic tasks. Spend a few minutes checking pump operation during any rainy season and in early spring to ensure reliable sump pump operation.
Make sure there is power to the outlet the sump pump is plugged into and during operation can cause it to fall, tilt onto one side, or to shift out of position. This can jam the float arm so it can’t activate the pump
Periodically add water to the pit to make sure the pump starts automatically, and the water drains quickly once the pump is on. If the pump doesn’t start, have it serviced.
Physically remove the pump from the pit periodically and clean the pit and the grate on the bottom of the pump. The sucking action of the pump can pull small stones or other debris into the grate, blocking the inlet or damaging the pump over time. Verify that the cord is in good shape. The sump pump should be the only appliance on the circuit.
Ensure the pump itself is standing upright. Vibrations can cause the pump to shift and pinch the float against the wall of the basin.
Ensure the outlet pipes are tightly joined together and draining out at least 10 feet away from your foundation.
Inspect check valve clamps and rubber sleeves and tighten or replace if cracks are apparent.
Make sure the vent hole in the discharge pipe is clear.
If your sump pump discharges into an underground piping system make sure the line is clear and that it has a proper overflow.
For added peace of mind, A-fordable Plumbing and Mechanical can install a high-water alarm in your sump basket. This alarm will alert you when your primary sump pump fails and the water level in the sump basket reaches a critical stage. This is one of the most important accessories you can add, especially if you have a finished basement.
Our high-water alarm system can also be connected to a home security system to alert you even if you are not at home. Remember – All pumps eventually fail. Knowing at the point of failure allows corrections/repairs to be completed before damage occurs. A-fordable Plumbing & Mechanical is an experienced and trusted Michigan Sump Pump Service. we can respond to an emergency sump pump calls within 1 to 2 hours, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call (248) 371-0494 now! Click here to read our excellent customer reviews or see a list of our additional plumbing services.
