Basement sump pump systems are essential in protecting your home from water damage. If yours is malfunctioning, it may be time to upgrade.
Before selecting a sump pump system for your Norristown PA home, there are several factors to take into account: cost, performance and size.
Installation
Basement sump pump systems are one of the best ways to protect your home from water damage. Installed in your basement, these devices pump out extra water during heavy rainfall or other natural events that may cause flooding. Lil Jon’s Plumbing has extensive experience installing and maintaining sump pumps so homeowners are safe from flood damage.
Prior to installation, it’s essential to select the appropriate type of sump pump for your requirements. There are two primary options: pedestal and submersible. Pedestal models tend to be more cost-effective but won’t evacuate as much water as a submersible model will.
Once you select the ideal sump pump for your home, the next step is to plan how it will operate. This involves deciding where you want the water discharged – into either your sewer, into a perimeter storm drain system, or onto the landscape (local building codes may differ).
Typically, sump pumps will discharge water at a distance of at least 15 feet from your home. To ensure a successful discharge, this area must be clear of obstructions and sloped back away from the foundation so that water does not come back against it when released.
Once your basement sump pump system has been installed, it’s essential to test it regularly. Pouring some water into the pit and checking that the float switch elevates and starts pumping out water should be done at least quarterly; this will guarantee your pump is working optimally and keeps your basement free from flood damage.
Additionally, make sure your sump pump is connected to a GFCI outlet. Doing so can protect you from electrical shock and potentially save your life.
Regularly cleaning the pit and grate inside your sump pump is recommended, especially when not in use. Doing this helps prevent sand, dirt, and other particles from building up inside and damaging your pump over time. Furthermore, having these areas cleaned on a regular basis will help eliminate any mold or mildew that may be growing inside them.
Maintenance
Maintaining your basement sump pump system is essential if you want it to keep working optimally. Not only does this help prevent flooding in your home, but it will save you money in the long run as well.
The initial step in maintaining your sump pump system is testing it regularly. This will enable you to determine if everything is functioning properly and identify any issues that need immediate attention.
Testing your sump pump at least twice annually is recommended, especially if you live in an area prone to heavy rain or snow storms.
It is wise to regularly inspect the discharge pipe for signs of ice buildup. If this occurs, it could indicate that a replacement is necessary.
When inspecting the discharge pipe, ensure it is adequately insulated against freezing. Doing this will help prevent ice formation inside the pipe and guarantee water removal from your basement.
Another beneficial practice is regularly cleaning the float switch. Doing so helps prevent it from clogging and ensures it turns the pump on and off correctly.
In addition to cleaning the float switch, it is also wise to regularly inspect the discharge pipe for signs of ice buildup. Doing this allows you to replace the pipe quickly and avoid potential damage caused by a frozen discharge line.
Installing a check valve at the point where the discharge pipe meets the pump can help prevent water from backing up into the machine and making it work extra hard.
In addition to installing a check valve, make sure the discharge pipe is secured with a brace. Doing this will prevent it from jerking and moving across your basement floor when cycled on and off.
Repair
The sump pump system is essential in keeping your basement dry and safe from water damage. It works by draining groundwater that collects in the pit, serving two purposes: keeping the basement dry, as well as eliminating any excess moisture that has seeped into foundation or soil around it.
For the best repair of a basement sump pump system, contact an experienced plumbing company. They can inspect the system and identify any problems preventing proper operation, replace it if necessary, and provide regular maintenance to keep everything running optimally.
A typical system consists of a pump in a sump pit and an ABS discharge pipe outside the basement. When water levels in the pit rise to an appropriate level, the pump will activate and push water outside through a storm drain, retention pond or dry well – keeping your basement dry.
For homeowners with a sump pit and ABS discharge piping system, it is recommended that you have your system professionally inspected at least twice annually. Doing this will guarantee the system functions optimally and help avoid any major issues in the future.
Hire a sump pump repair expert with extensive knowledge of the different systems available. They will be able to determine which type is most suitable for your home.
They can also give you tips on how to maintain the pump. This includes inspecting the basin at least once a month, clearing away any debris that has built up inside, and replacing any parts that have become worn down or damaged due to excessive water exposure.
They can inspect the ABS discharge pipe to detect any leaks or cracks. If found, replacement of this pipe is likely necessary.
Replacement
Basement sump pump systems are essential components for homes in flood-prone areas. They remove excess water from basement or crawl spaces and protect against rot, mold and other issues caused by dampness.
Flooded basements can be an unpleasant experience and cause significant harm to both your home and possessions. Not only that, but a flooded basement may leave the odor of musty-mold and even give off hazardous mildew particles.
If your basement has experienced flooding and your sump pump system is malfunctioning, contact a reliable plumber in Norristown PA immediately. They can either repair the existing system or suggest that you get an entirely new installation for your residence.
What type of basement sump pump system you require will depend on several factors, including the location and size of your basin and pump as well as current conditions in your home’s water table. The two most common types are pedestal and submersible pumps.
Pedestal pumps offer a cost-effective and simple installation option, though they may not be as efficient as other types of sump pumps. Therefore, pedestal pumps should only be used with smaller basins.
Submersible basement sump pumps offer a more permanent and energy-saving option due to the sealed motor inside the basin. This makes them ideal for larger basements or when quiet motors like pedestal pumps aren’t desired.
Some homeowners opt for a manually operated sump pump that activates only when water is detected in the pit. These manual systems tend to be more cost-effective than automated ones.
Most sump pumps feature a float activator that rises when water is detected in the pit, activating a switch that activates the pump and sending the water away to either dry wells or storm drains.
Basement sump pump systems in Norristown PA may need replacement. The most common reason is that they’re no longer functioning properly, which could be caused by a stuck switch, broken float arm, or damaged discharge pipe.
