Sump Pumps

Water seeping into basements can be a huge problem for homeowners. If you have water leaking into your basement you should probably consider investing in a sump pump. Sump pumps are located in the lowest point of the basement and keep water from reaching the basement floor. Without them homeowners can be faced with significant, expensive home repairs through the growth of mold and home deterioration due to rotting caused by water.

Sump pumps are necessary, because water builds up in the soil around the basement and makes its way in. When the water gets high enough in the sump pump hole, the sump pump will kick on and pump the water out away from the house several feet.

There are three commonly used types of sump pump. The pedestal sump pump is an electric pump that stands upright with the motor a few feet above it, as the motor is not made to get wet. The pump is activated by the float switch. This model is ideal for basements that need frequent pumping. It is the least expensive model on the market, but it is also the loudest.

Submersible is another type of pump, and it is also electrical. It is installed in the ground and made to be underwater. Similar to the pedestal it is activated by the float switch. It is more expensive than the pedestal, but it lasts longer and is not as noisy.

The third kind of sump pump is the water-powered pump. This pump doesn't run off electricity, but instead off water pressure from a home's plumbing. It does handle water at a rate comparable to the electric pumps. In most homes it is installed as a backup system in case there is a pump failure due to no electricity.

When buying a sump pump the biggest thing to focus on is horsepower and size. Standard horsepower for most houses is 1/3. Other factors to consider when choosing a sump pump for your house is the area the pump will be draining, the depth of the basement, and how deep the groundwater is.

When you're shopping for a sump pump, whether it be for the first time or to replace a sump pump that is no longer working, remember to consider your home and its needs. Determine what type and size of sump pump is going to work best for you and be the most efficient.