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5 Categories Of Sump Pumps And How To Maintain Them

By November 30, 2022December 7th, 2023No Comments

5 Categories Of Sump Pumps And How To Maintain Them Sump pumps are a necessity for any home with a basement or crawlspace. They help prevent basement flooding by pumping water out of the sump basin and into the ground. There are wide different varieties of sump pumps available, so it’s essential to choose the pump that is right for your home and needs. If your pump fails, be sure to have a backup installed in an emergency.

There are many benefits to using a sump pump. For example, they can be helpful in cases of flooding, when water accumulates on the floor of a home or business, or when water is coming up through the ground. In addition, the best sump pumps can effectively remove moisture from areas below grade, such as basements and crawl spaces.

Types Of Sump Pumps

Submersible Pump

A submersible pump is submerged below the water’s surface. This type is usually used in basements and other areas with a lot of sediment buildup. It can also remove moisture from swimming pools and hot tubs.

A high pump is located on a raised platform above the water level. This type is often used in areas with too wet or soft soil to support a submersible pump. It can also remove water from shallow ponds and small lakes. A direct-drive pump relies on gears to turn a shaft, which causes the impeller to rotate.

Pedestal

Pedestal pumps work by draining water from below the floor into a container. This container can be a cistern, tank, or underground pipe. Next, the pump pulls the water out of the container and up to the pump head. This process repeats until the tank is full or until a physical obstruction, such as a sinkhole, stops the pump. Pedestal pumps have several advantages over other types of sump pumps. Moreover, they are easy to operate, so everyone in your family can help with maintenance tasks.

Battery Backup

This is one of the best sump pumps that continue operating even without electricity. With battery backup, the pump will shut down once it runs out of power. This is important to consider when choosing a sump pump because if you have a lot of water in your basement that needs to be pumped out quickly in case of an emergency, having a battery backup sump pump will help ensure that your basement is evacuated as soon as possible.

Combination

Combination-type sump pumps are an excellent option for those who need both a raw water pump and a drainage pump in their installation. These pumps can switch between the two functions depending on what is most needed. They are also very efficient, requiring less power to run than either type of pump.

Water-Driven

Hydraulic sump pumps use pressurized water to push the pump’s impeller or blades up and down. They’re more expensive than motor-driven pumps but can handle larger loads and water-level transitions much better. They’re the cheapest type of pump, but they can’t run very large loads or changes in water levels very well. As a result, they’re best for smaller homes with only a few water-driven appliances.

How To Maintain A Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are integral to any home’s drainage system, but proper maintenance and care can keep them running smoothly like any mechanical device. Here are three tips for keeping your sump pump working optimally:

1. Check the pump regularly for proper operation and wear and tear. A dirty or clogged pump will not work as efficiently and may need to be replaced.

2. Keep the pit clean to reduce debris buildup that can obstruct the pump’s flow or cause malfunctions. Sweep up debris after rainstorms or during regular cleaning activities.

3. Check the water level in your sump basin regularly and adjust it as necessary to maintain adequate drainage. If you notice a decrease in water level, contact a professional to check for potential blockages or faulty plumbing systems.

Final Verdict

Suppose you are considering adding a sump pump to your home; then you must research and get the right one for your needs. Many options are available, so choosing one that meets your specific needs is important. Make sure to also consider the size of your sump pump and the area in which the pump will be installed. Finally, always test the pump before installing it to ensure it is working properly.

Chad Carson

Chad Carson

Chad Carson is a veteran journalist focusing on home maintenance. With a background in engineering, he has been sharing his home maintenance and safety expertise. Before his current role, he worked as a safety consultant, providing him with valuable insights. His experience includes a decade-long stint in a leading home safety equipment company. Chad's writing combines technical knowledge with user-friendly advice. Outside work, he is a marathon runner and a volunteer firefighter. He also enjoys woodworking and hiking.

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