If you live in a flat area or one where the water table is high, you are at a high risk for floods. It doesn’t take much water to cause serious damage; just a few inches of water can do thousands in damage. To avoid a flooded basement, the best thing to do is to buy a sump pump.
What a Sump Pump Does
A sump pump does one thing and one thing only: it removes water from your home. It might seem nonsensical to pay for a machine that only does one thing, but water in your home can be a serious problem. With a sump pump, overflow is directed to a central location, where it is forced out into a pipe and into municipal storm drains.
How They Work
Sump pumps have a float, which works like that on a toilet, only in reverse. A toilet float stops water from flowing into the tank once it reaches a set level, but a sump pump’s float turns the machine on once water reaches a certain height. There are many sump pump models to choose from, and your plumber can help you select the right one for your needs.
Pedestal sumps sit above the sump. The motor is above the water, which makes more noise, but it lasts longer. These models are also a little cheaper.
Submersible sump pumps rest inside the well, and are covered by incoming water. These motors are sealed against infiltration and debris, which makes them very durable. They are expensive, but are best for a finished basement.
Battery backup pumps will work even during a power outage. They can tell when they aren’t getting electricity, and the battery system takes over. This is the most expensive option, but can cycle almost 9000 gallons before needing a recharge.
As useful as sump pumps are, they do have the potential for failure. Poor installation is the most common reason for pump malfunction; be sure to get selection and installation help from a plumber. If your pump isn’t properly installed, it won’t be of much help, but Plumbers in Little Rock will make sure that you get the right pump, that it’s properly installed, and that you get a warranty on parts and labor.
If you live in a flat area or one where the water table is high, you are at a high risk for floods. It doesn’t take much water to cause serious damage; just a few inches of water can do thousands in damage. Visit us at Advantage Service Company, Inc.