Installing a sump pump can protect your home from potential water damage and flooding. Whether you’re dealing with an inconvenient damp basement, seasonal heavy rains, or a high water table, a sump pump is a reliable defense mechanism.
Our professional installation services ensure that you have the right sump pump system for your specific needs and that it operates effectively, providing you with the peace of mind that your home is protected during wet weather and unforeseen water-related emergencies. Don’t wait until the next heavy rain; let us install a sump pump to keep your home dry and secure.
What Is a Sump Pump and How Do They Work?
Water naturally seeks its own level. If part of your home is below ground, rainwater and run-off may pool and seep through your home’s foundation. The sump pump detects unwanted rain or run-off water and automatically pumps it up and out of the house to prevent flooding, rot, and mold. Pumps operate effectively in both high and low water volume scenarios.
Sump pumps run on electricity and are fairly common in Seattle due to the amount of rainfall we receive. Many Seattle homeowners use sump pumps to keep their basements dry. Overall, a sump pump performs the critical plumbing function of preventing structural water damage. Annual inspections can help support a sump pump’s efficiency.
Water Triggers the Pump
Pumps usually run on electricity and sit in a “pit”, a small area dug into the basement floor that creates the lowest level in the basement. As water collects in the pit, a float mechanism rises and triggers a switch to activate the pump. The water is pumped outside, away from the home’s foundation. The water is usually directed into a drain or into a pipe outside the house.
As the water level in the pit drops, the float goes down and the pump shuts off.
Sump pumps are enclosed in a waterproof casing of either cast iron, another metal, or plastic. Filters keep out any debris in the water before pumping. Pumps must be maintained because they will fail if there is a lot of sediment in the water or if they are constantly cycling on and off. Under good conditions, a sump pump will last 6 to 10 years.
Backup Pump
A water-powered backup pump kicks in when water fills the sump pit, passes the main pump float, and triggers the water-powered float. The float movement causes a valve to open, pulling fresh water through the pipes and creating powerful suction. The rainwater is sucked up and discharged outdoors.
The backup pump cycles off when the sump pit is empty and repeats the cycle when the water rises again.
A water-powered sump pump should not be considered for the main pump because it relies on fresh water, and the result would be a very high water bill.
