Installing a sump pump is one of the most crucial measures homeowners can take to protect their basement from flooding. Not only does it save thousands in damage, but it can also prevent mold infestation and costly mold growth.
The pump should be located in the lowest spot of a basement floor, where it is most efficient at eliminating water. It should be enclosed by a sump pit and airtight sump pump liner to ensure optimal efficiency.
Installing a Sump Pit
Sump pumps are devices that transport water from a pit in your basement to an outside drain line, keeping it dry and safe during rainy seasons. Not only does this keep your basement dry, but it also shields belongings and prevents serious flooding.
When selecting a sump pump, there are numerous types to choose from. When making your decision, here are some things to take into account:
Horsepower (or horsepower): The more powerful your pump, the more water it can remove from your pit. However, you shouldn’t go overboard if your moisture problem isn’t too serious. Head pressure: The higher the head pressure setting on a pump, the more water will be raised to its outlet pipe — less 10 percent for physical limitations such as bends in pipes.
Power Cord Length: Sump pumps must be able to plug into an outlet that can handle the amount of electricity they draw. Most use standard 110-volt outlets, though some come with 220 or 460 volts options as well.
Battery Backup: Some pumps come equipped with a battery backup that will continue running the pump even if power goes out. This can be especially helpful during an extended power outage during storms, protecting your home from severe flooding.
Installation Cost: The amount you’ll pay to have a sump pump installed depends on where your house is situated. Prices can range anywhere from $125 up to more than $500, so it’s best to hire an expert installer as they will know precisely what equipment is necessary.
Location: Your sump pit should be situated near the lowest point of your basement, away from existing water, sewer and utility lines. If it’s too close to these pipes, you could experience clogs in the drain line that lead to serious issues.
If you want to install a sump pit in your basement, be sure to hire an expert for installation. They’ll help determine the ideal location and give advice on proper size of the pit and pump placement.
In most cases, the installer will take away your old sump pump, clean it and set up the new one. They’ll also ensure that all discharge pipes are securely attached and drain properly outside your house.
They’ll also inspect that the float valve is working correctly and that the pit is suitable for a sump pump. You should inspect both components at least once a month for any signs of trouble, such as an unresponsive motor or discharge lines with debris buildup.
Checking whether your sump pump is running efficiently can be done by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and watching it drain. If the water doesn’t drain quickly, then it may be time for professional service from an expert.
Installing a Sump Pump Liner
Sump pumps are water-powered devices that drain away excess moisture in your basement. They’re often required as part of home insurance policies and can be incredibly helpful in keeping your property free from water damage.
To maximize the efficiency of your sump pump, it’s essential to understand its workings and how to install a liner. If you are unfamiliar with these concepts, having an experienced professional assist you is recommended.
Step #1: Begin by taking your existing sump pump out of its pit and disassembling it. You’ll need a hose clamp to disconnect the discharge pipe from the pump, as well as to loosen the check valve that allows water to enter into your float switch.
Prior to installing a new sump pump liner, it’s essential to thoroughly clean the pit. Doing so will eliminate any dirt or sludge that has built up.
Next, create a hole deep enough for your sump pump to fit inside. Depending on the model of pump, this could be as much as one or two feet beneath the soil.
Next, insert a liner about the size of a five-gallon bucket into the hole and fill it with gravel. Attach filter fabric around the perimeter to keep sludge and debris out, then backfill with excavated dirt.
Step 2: Finally, insert the new sump pump into its liner. You may use an old pump if you don’t have a replacement, but make sure to clear away any debris which could clog its inlet or prevent proper operation.
Your sump pump is an integral part of keeping your basement dry, so it’s essential that it does its job effectively. That’s why selecting the right one is so crucial.
Furthermore, your pump must be the appropriate size for your pit. A sump pump that’s too small won’t be able to collect enough water in your pit, making it work harder and leading to premature wear and tear on the device.
Sump pump liners are plastic containers used to collect the water collected in a sump pit. They’re typically about the size of five-gallon paint buckets and feature perforations which allow water to enter into the liner, straining out gravel and other debris.
Once the water in your liner reaches a preset depth, it activates a float switch to turn on the sump pump. This helps prevent moisture from seeping into your basement and damaging its foundation.
When installing a sump pump for your pit, be sure to select the right model and follow its installation instructions closely. Otherwise, you could end up with an unresponsive system that’s costly to repair or replace.
Once you’ve selected a sump pump, make sure the company you select has an excellent reputation for customer service and upfront pricing. After selecting your ideal supplier, call them for an estimate.
