When the rainy season arrives, a sump pump is essential for safeguarding your home against basement flooding and water damage. Unfortunately, like any mechanical device, they can malfunction and require repair.
Therefore, it’s essential to recognize when your sump pump is no longer performing its duties properly. Here are some signs that you might need a new one:
Submersible Pumps
When looking for a sump pump, submersible pumps are your top choices. These types of pumps work best in homes with basements or crawl spaces that may flood. Furthermore, they help prevent gradual water accumulation and mold problems in your property.
This type of pump is also effective at handling water from flooded areas, like your driveway. It’s an important safety measure that could save you thousands in repairs costs.
Submersible sump pumps function by using an impeller, which converts the kinetic energy of water into pressure. After passing through a diffuser, which is spun by the motor rotation, this water is released back into circulation for use in various systems.
Another advantage of submersible pumps is that they tend to be quite quiet while working. Furthermore, they use minimal energy for water circulation – an invaluable benefit for homeowners concerned about power bills.
Furthermore, these pumps are often capable of working in challenging locations and can be operated almost completely automatically with minimal user involvement. This makes them an attractive option for a variety of situations.
These pumps come in various sizes to suit different applications. Usually, they offer an extensive range of horsepower and can be utilized to regulate water flow through sewer systems, drains, and other applications.
They can also be employed to increase the flow of water through pipelines, thus helping reduce sludge and other waste materials that could create blockages.
Submersible pumps can also be installed in rainwater tanks. This is an attractive choice for many homeowners who desire direct access to their rainwater. Unfortunately, these pumps tend to be more costly than other types of sump pumps and take up more space within your tank.
For further inquiries about the various pumps available and their potential uses in your home or business, don’t hesitate to contact our team today. We will be more than happy to answer all your queries!
Pedestal Pumps
If you want to protect your home from flooding, one of the best solutions is installing a pedestal sump pump. These cheaper alternatives cost less than submersible sump pumps and typically last longer. Furthermore, these pumps perform better in areas that frequently experience rainfall.
To get your basement or crawl space pump up and running efficiently, select the right size. Larger pumps have more capacity for water removal. Furthermore, consider what kind of motor you want; some pedestal pumps use direct drive motors while others utilize submersible ones.
Additionally, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and verify the warranty for peace of mind. Doing this can help you prevent any unexpected problems down the line.
Some pedestal sump pumps are battery-operated, meaning they will still function even if your power goes out. If you’re interested in this type of device, make sure it includes a battery backup system.
When shopping for a pedestal pump, one important feature to consider is its lift capability. Lift refers to the upward displacement of the motor shaft and impeller from their zero clearance position when loosening coupling bolts or adjustment plates. Once these are loosed, these components can move upwards from their original positions.
These pumps are ideal for industrial and commercial applications requiring high volume liquid transfer, waste water drainage and chemical processing. They boast a self-cleaning clog resistant impeller, dual cycle 50/60 Hz TEFC motors with thermal overload protection and a fine-meshed top inlet debris screen to prevent clogging.
The Zoeller 84-0001 Faithful Pedestal Pump is an ideal option for anyone searching for a pedestal pump. It boasts a 1/2 HP motor that’s powerful enough to move up to 5,400 gallons of water per hour, plus its heavy-duty cast iron construction makes it durable and long-lasting. Plus, its float switch automatically turns on and off so you can regulate how much water flows through it.
Float Switches
A float switch is a mechanical switch that opens or shuts an electrical circuit based on the level of liquid in a tank or sump. It works with a counterweight and pre-set trigger to detect movement up or down with changes to liquid level.
The float switch is connected to a pump or alarm that signals when a specific liquid level has been reached or exceeded. This helps avoid an accumulation of water inside your home which could promote mold growth and wood rot.
Float switches come in a range of materials, such as plastics and stainless steel. It is important that the material chosen is compatible with liquids being used – such as potable water or highly corrosive chemicals. Some float switches have been ATEX-approved for use in hazardous environments.
These switches are an effective way to detect liquid levels at a single point and can be employed in many different applications. Furthermore, they are contact-free and don’t need a power source for operation.
Most float switches utilize a chrome-plated or stainless-steel ball that rolls within an internal chamber to operate an electrical microswitch. This internal construction helps minimize force applied to the microswitch when activated.
Some float switches also utilize magnetic reed contacts, which consist of contact leaves that move together or apart when exposed to magnetic fields. When these switches are in the closed position, current flows through them; when open, however, they disrupt this circuit (break up current flow).
Three types of float switches exist: KPM Series, MPM Series and JPM Series. Usually utilized as a single switch, these float switches can be wired in either configuration.
They can be mounted vertically or horizontally, and the switch can be adjusted for tilt level or a constant position to prevent liquid shifting around while it rises and falls. They come in brass & buna or stainless steel materials and can be customized to meet your requirements.
Backup Power
If you live in a storm-prone area, having a backup power system is essential. Not only will it supply your home with essential electrical current, but a quality battery backup can keep your sump pump running during an outage.
With a quality lithium ion or AA battery, you can rest easy knowing your basement is safe from flooding. Many models come equipped with a battery indicator light so you can quickly see the level of charge in your device. Plus, replacing the battery when it needs charging is simple!
Our Conshohocken PA plumbers offer many backup power options, including battery-operated systems. In addition, we offer whole house power generation to keep your lights and appliances running during an outage.
We also have an in-house water damage remediation team that can assist you in recovering from flooding. A certified technician will assess the extent of damage, make recommendations for remediation and perform necessary repairs, restoring your house back to its pre-flood condition.
Reach out to us today for a free estimate and the guidance you need in making the ideal selection for your Conshohocken PA home. Our experts are happy to answer all of your questions and assist in making an informed decision.
No home is immune from power outages or other plumbing troubles, but the right plumber can help put your worries to rest. You can count on our experienced plumbers for assistance with a solution that fits both your budget and schedule.
