Today one of the first lines of defense against wet basements often involves sump pumps. Yet this important home improvement technology usually receives little attention from the news media. Many people find the topic of basement sump pumps a bit confusing, in fact.
A sump pump typically operates within a “sump pit” situated in the lowest level of a basement. Although in some cases simply installing a new sump pump won’t completely solve a complex waterproofing problem, these devices usually play important roles in the solution. They help remove water from low-lying locations.
We’ve collected some interesting facts about sump pumps. If you enjoy playing trivia games, you might enjoy testing your knowledge about these pumps. See how many of your friends know this information:
1. Sump Pumps Occur in Two Main Styles
Today, two main styles of sump pumps have obtained widespread popularity:
a pedestal (or “above-water level” pump) and a submersible (or “below-water level” pump). Each type offers both advantages and disadvantages. The engine of a pedestal sump pump perches above the water level, offering a more accessible location for cleaning and maintenance.
By contrast, the engine of a submersible sump pump typically sits within waterproof casing in a location beneath the waterline. Also, this type of pump operates discretely in the background as it pumps away water.
2. Water Pumps Have Preoccupied Engineers For Thousands of Years
The concept of pumping away water has preoccupied human for centuries. However, sump pumps did not obtain frequent use in homes in the United States until the late 1940s and early 1950s.
Efforts to devise systems to move water from one location to another have occurred for centuries. Reportedly, the ancient Greek mathematician and inventor Archimedes even worked on this problem!
3. Sump Pumps Prevent Water From Accumulating Underneath a Basement
While sump pumps may help remove pooled water from flooded basements, they serve another, equally important, function. The pump may help prevent water from accumulating in the ground immediately underneath the basement. Where it might eventually cause damage.
During the installation of interior drain systems, a waterproofing company may install a sump pump to help pump water from the basement into a pipe or other desired drainage channel.
4. Sump Pumps Benefit From Regular Maintenance
Just like other household equipment, including air conditioners, water heaters, and furnaces, sump pumps will eventually wear out. Also, as they operate, the pumps sometimes accumulate debris from the water, and this sludge may eventually clog the pump and impede its effective operation.
Sump pumps may benefit from periodic testing, maintenance inspections, and (in some cases) cleaning or replacement.
5. Backup Sump Pump Systems Help in Some Situations
Today, waterproof experts usually recommend that you install both a sump pump, as well as a backup sump pump. Also, the backup sump pump is for use if the main pump fails. While not always necessary, this strategy may assist property owners in areas in which sump pumps sustain frequent use.
Drivers who carry along spare tires will appreciate the importance of this type of precaution. The backup system typically operates from a power source which will not fail in the event of a power outage.
6. Malfunctioning Sump Pumps Can Become Dangerous
Keep in mind, sump pumps typically run off electricity and they are submerged in water. Furthermore, they actively pump out water from a basement. It’s important to exercise caution if you operate sump pumps or other hydraulic pumps that connect to a power source. Also, water plus electricity have the potential to spell disaster. Familiarize yourself, be certain to read instruction manuals before you operate sump pumps.
Most noteworthy, water conducts electricity thus it can easily electrocute people. If a flood occurs in your basement, never allow people to blindly wade through the water. Also, if you do have a malfunctioning sump pump, contact with water exposed to a power source could prove dangerous.
The bottom line: you’ll want to take action to prevent basement flooding well before rising water levels can pose a problem in this location.
Our Waterproofing Services
In the Greater Raleigh, Southern Pines, and Fayetteville area, Drainage & Waterproofing Solutions,LLC” offers fast, skilled service installing sump pumps and French Drains.
We address many different types of waterproofing challenges to help homeowners maintain dry, secure basements and crawl spaces.
We install interior drain systems, seal crawl spaces, and build retaining walls. Also, customers also seek our assistance to control and direct drainage through yards.
When you require expert services that involve these home improvement issues
