Basements and crawl spaces are often prone to risks of intermittent flooding from heavy rains. Excessive moisture and water in these spaces can damage your belongings and lead to mold growth and wooden structure rotting. Installing a sump pump in basements and crawl spaces can be an excellent way to protect your home from water damage.
A sump pump helps remove water that accumulates from a sump pit or lower area. The waterproofing experts at Smouse Brothers discuss the functions of a sump pump and the different types. If you need sump pump installation in Southern MO, contact us today.
What is a Sump Pump Used For?
A sump pump is a specialized device that moves water from your basement to the outside of your home. It is installed in a sump pit located at the lowest point of your house, such as the crawl space or basement. The pump is equipped with valves that sense rising water levels and pressure. When the water rises to a certain level, the pump automatically pumps the excess water out of the basement and away from your property via a discharge line. This line is referred to as an effluent and connects the pump to dedicated drainage areas such as a dry well, a creek, a pond, or even a neighborhood drain.
The Types of Sump Pumps We’re Familiar With
Here are some of the sump pump types and models that our technicians install and service in Southern MO, and NW Arkansas:
Battery Backup Sump Pump
A battery backup sump pump is a secondary pump system designed to provide additional security from flood damage. During normal conditions, the primary pump manages the water level by pumping it out of the pit and away from the house. However, if there’s a power outage, the backup sump pump, powered by a battery, activates to continue removing water and preventing flooding.
Submersible Sump Pump
A submersible sump pump combines the pump and motor into one unit. They are submerged and closed inside the basin in your basement. Since they are entirely submerged in the water basin, they are often quieter and save more space than a pedestal. However, a submersible sump pump may not last as long as other pumps due to the effects of water submersion.
Pedestal Sump Pump
Pedestal sump pumps are vertical pumps featuring an impeller installed at the base. Unlike the submersible pump, its motor is positioned at the pump’s upper part and connected to the pump with a hose. The pump sends water through the hose and out to the desired drain area. Since the motor is not submerged, it often has a longer lifespan than other sump pumps. However, they tend to be noisier because the motor is exposed.
Why Do Sump Pumps Fail
Here are some common causes of sump pump failure:
- Check valve faults: Check valves in sump pump systems are crucial in ensuring water flows in one direction, preventing backflow. Faulty or malfunctioning check valves can lead to water returning to the sump pit, causing the pump to cycle more frequently or fail to remove water entirely. This failure might occur due to debris blocking the valve, deterioration over time, or incorrect installation.
- Switch failure: The switch in a sump pump controls its operation, triggering the pump to turn on and off as needed. If the switch becomes stuck, damaged, or misaligned, the pump may fail to activate when water levels rise, leading to flooding.
- Stuck Float: Sump pumps equipped with a float switch rely on the float to rise with water levels, signaling the pump to activate. However, a stuck or obstructed float can prevent proper pump operation. Debris accumulation, irregular positioning, or damage to the float mechanism can hinder its movement, causing the pump to either not start or continuously run, regardless of water levels.
- Power failure: Sump pumps rely on a power source to function. During severe storms or electrical outages, the primary power supply may fail to render the unit ineffective. Without power, the pump cannot remove water, leaving the property vulnerable to flooding and water damage.
Ask Us About Sump Pump Installation in Missouri & Arkansas!
If you are considering a sump pump solution in Missouri or Arkansas, it is crucial to have the device installed and maintained by a waterproofing expert. Smouse Bros is your trusted source for top-quality sump pump installation services across the Ozarks. As a locally-operated company, we understand the unique challenges homeowners and businesses face in this region, especially with unpredictable weather patterns. Our mission is to safeguard your property and provide peace of mind through expert sump pump solutions. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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