Sump pumps are an integral component of any home’s drainage system. They help remove water that could otherwise wreak havoc on your basement.
Sump pumps come in a range of styles to meet your basement needs and aesthetic preferences. Each has its own purpose and can be chosen according to what works best for your specific situation.
Pedestal Pumps
Pedestal pumps are one of the most common and efficient types of sump pumps available today. Not only are these less expensive than submersible pumps, but they’re also easier to repair or maintain.
They use much less energy than their submersible counterparts, saving you money on electricity bills and helping maintain a balanced budget.
Pedestal pumps come in a range of price points. Most are thermoplastic, though some may be constructed from cast iron or stainless steel.
A float switch activates the motor when water in the pit rises to a preset height. Once reached, this height causes the motor to turn on and pump out any remaining water through an outlet pipe.
Once the float reaches its lowest height, it stops pumping. This prevents backflow and keeps your basement dry.
These pumps typically feature a float switch that can be configured as either a tether, vertical, diaphragm or digital type. Furthermore, some may offer an adjustable height float height adjustment so you can customize how high the float is when activated by water pressure.
Float switches are essential components of any sump pump system. Not only do they prevent the pump from overheating and malfunctioning, but they provide a means for testing its performance to guarantee it runs optimally.
They are also easy to repair if something goes awry, since the switch and motor reside outside the pit, making them easily accessible for replacement.
This type of pump can also be operated with a battery backup for when the power goes out. This feature comes in handy during storms when power may be out for an extended period.
Most pedestal pumps rely on a float switch to detect when water levels are too low to safely drain. They’re intended for use in an enclosed pit, but cannot handle solid objects such as pebbles or debris.
These pumps can be used for either small or large sump pits and even crawlspace installations. With various sizes available, you’re sure to find one that is ideal for your home and the sump pit in which it will be placed.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps are an ideal choice for many homeowners and business owners due to their advantages such as quiet operation, ease of upkeep, and cost efficiency.
Pumps can be employed to move water from wells, boreholes and even seawater. Not only that but they’re highly efficient and capable of moving large volumes of water quickly.
One of the most common submersible pumps is a centrifugal pump. This device works by converting rotary energy into kinetic energy and then pressure energy through rotation of an impeller inside of a sealed unit that pushes fluid upwards towards the surface.
These pumps can be found in both residential and commercial settings. They’re remarkably effective when it comes to draining wastewater or other dirty water from buildings and gardens.
They’re an ideal solution for pumping water from swimming pools and other outdoor spaces, or to reduce the water level in ponds. Furthermore, they could drain any contaminated water that might be collecting in basements or crawlspaces.
Another advantage of these types of pumps is their durability. Crafted with corrosion-resistant metals, they’re capable of withstanding all sorts of weather conditions and hazardous substances. Furthermore, their safety in various locations and environments make them a perfect choice for businesses or homeowners alike.
Submersible pumps are most often centrifugal models, available in various sizes and capacities. With these powerful machines, you can pump up to 9,000 gallons of water between recharges.
Some models of these pumps also feature battery backups, enabling them to remain running even if you’re not home. When water accumulates in your basement, these batteries will charge up and automatically turn on to clear away the water.
When searching for a submersible pump, research your options and select one that meets your requirements. For instance, if you need something that can handle solids, make sure to read through the manufacturer’s specifications before buying.
Battery Backups
Battery backups are an invaluable addition to any home’s sump pump system. Not only will they keep your basement dry in case of flooding, but they’re also an economical way to power a home’s electrical appliances.
They provide a backup power source to your sump pump in case of an outage. Many homeowners opt to have a battery backup installed alongside their sump pumps in order to maximize their effectiveness and protect their basements from flooding.
These systems can be installed by any waterproofing contractor or plumber. A battery backup system works with any sump pump, but is especially recommended for older pumps that cannot handle power outages.
In addition to providing a backup for your sump pump, these systems can also supply power for other devices in your home during a power outage. For instance, with a battery backup you can still use your laptop or other computer so you can still save files and work while electricity is out.
Another viable home backup option is solar panels. These renewable energy devices harness the sun’s energy to generate clean, renewable electricity for your residence without any emissions whatsoever.
Homes in Jenkintown PA that want to go green and become more energy efficient should consider installing solar panels. You can use them for powering all or parts of your house – like the basement’s sump pump – without sacrificing performance or comfort.
When selecting a battery backup, there are various options to choose from that fit both your needs and budget. On average, these devices cost between $10,000 and $20,000.
Backups are an ideal way to ensure your important electronic devices won’t be disrupted during a power outage. They provide a steady source of electricity for some time and may even shut down the devices if they become too hot or overheated during the outage. This saves money on power bills and avoids potential data losses which could prove expensive to replace in the future.
Installation
Installing a sump pump is one of the most crucial steps you can take to protect your home and avoid water damage. Not only does it prevent warping, rotting and toxic mold growth in your basement, but it also shields your foundation from structural harm.
When selecting a pump, your needs must be taken into consideration. A pedestal pump is cost-effective and often suitable for areas with minor flooding issues or low levels of water.
However, pedestal pumps take up more room than submersible sump pumps and are noisier. Furthermore, they lack waterproofing and can clog up more quickly. Furthermore, pedestal pumps lack durability compared to submersible models and cannot handle high volumes of water as well.
Installing a sump pump in Jenkintown PA requires specific tools, knowledge and experience. For best results, hire an experienced professional who will do the job correctly and guarantee your complete satisfaction.
Installation costs for sump pumps vary based on their location. For instance, if you are installing it in the basement, expect costs to be much higher than if it is being installed outdoors.
The type of floor you have will influence the cost of your sump pump installation. For instance, concrete floors require more effort to break up, leading to higher prices as jackhammers must be used for breaking them up.
Before deciding whether or not you want a contractor to install your sump pump, it’s wise to inquire about their labor rates and materials charged. Doing this helps avoid miscommunication and saves you money in the long run.
When your sump pump malfunctions, you must contact a licensed plumber right away to replace it. Although this can be an annoying and costly process, it’s the only way to save your home from flood waters.
Are you in the market for a sump pump installation? Get started by getting free project estimates from local experts. All that requires is answering a few questions about your home project, and an experienced pro will be matched with you within seconds.
