How Does a Sump Pump Work?

When you live in a place that gets a lot of rain, floods, or has a high-water table, you are no stranger to the term sump pump. It is a small, but powerful tool that can mean the difference between a dry basement and a flooded mess.

In this article, we will demystify what a sump pump is, how it functions, and why it is vital to most American homes, especially homes with crawl spaces or basements.

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a pump that is installed in the lowest area of the basement or crawl space. Its task is not complex, but very important: to prevent the entry of water.

Why Is It Called a “Sump” Pump?

A pit or basin, which is in most cases a hole dug in the ground below the basement floor, is called a sump. The water accumulates in this pit and when the water level is too high, the sump pump is triggered into action.

Why Do Homes Need a Sump Pump?

Homes in the U.S., particularly in the Midwest and Northeast, are susceptible to flooding or water seepage.

A sump pump is a proactive solution to:

· Prevent flooding in basements

· Protect the foundation from water damage

· Stop mold and mildew growth

· Keep the home’s structure dry and safe.

A sump pump may save you thousands of dollars in repair costs should your house be in a low-lying area, have poor drainage, or be in a place that is prone to frequent storms.

How a Sump Pump Works: Step-by-Step

So, how does a sump pump keep your home dry?

Step 1: Water Enters the Sump Pit

Rain water, snow, or ground water enters the sump pit through drains or naturally through percolation of water in the soil.

Step 2: The Float Switch Activates

The majority of sump pumps have a float switch; the same kind found in a toilet tank. The float activates the pump to turn on when the water reaches a specific level.

Step 3: Pump Removes the Water

The pump motor is activated, and an impeller (fan-like device) is utilized to force the water up through a discharge pipe and out of your house.

Step 4: Water Is Sent Away

The drain pipe removes the water out of your house and in most cases to a storm drain, dry well, or a safe area in your yard.

Step 5: Pump Turns Off

When the water level in the sump pit goes down, the float switch gets back to its starting position and the pump is switched off.

Key Components of a Sump Pump System

In order to know how the sump pump works, we can consider its major components:

1. Sump Pit (Basin)

The hole in the basement floor which gathers the surplus water.

2. Pump Motor

Pumps the water out of the pit.

3. Float Switch

Pumps water on and off depending on the amount of water in the basin.

4. Impeller

Rotating blade that creates suction to move water.

5. Discharge Pipe

Carries water away from your home.

6. Check Valve

Stops the water that has been pumped out of a pit flowing back into it.

Do Sump Pumps Need Electricity?

Yes, sump pumps are powered by electricity. But what happens during a power outage?

Backup Systems

In order to ensure the safety of your house even when there is no electricity, most homeowners install water-powered backup systems or battery backup systems. These come on automatically in the event of a electricity failure or power loss of the main pump.

Maintenance Tips for Your Sump Pump

Like any appliance, your sump pump needs regular upkeep.

Here are some simple tips:

· Test it once a month by pouring some water into the pit and observing the flow

· Clean the pit every few months to remove debris

· Ensure that there is no blockage on the discharge pipe or freezing during winter

· Replace the pump every 7 to 10 years, depending on usage

A plumber or contractor can also fix everything annually to make sure the system is running as it should-- particularly before storm season.

Signs Your Sump Pump May Be Failing

Watch for these warning signs:

· Strange noises or vibrations

· Pump runs constantly or never turns on

· Water in your basement despite the pump being installed

· Rust, dirt, or debris build up

Even though your pump may still be running well, it is prudent to begin thinking about a replacement pump once it is more than 10 years old.

Is a Sump Pump Worth It?

To a lot of American homeowners, the answer is yes.

Here’s why:

Pros:

· Prevents costly water damage

· Helps maintain home’s value

· Reduces mold risk

· Offers peace of mind during storms

Cons:

· Initial installation can be expensive

· Requires maintenance

· Depends on power unless a backup is installed

When Should You Install One?

You should consider a sump pump if:

· You’ve had basement flooding before

· Your home is built on flat or low-lying ground

· You notice dampness, musty smells, or mildew

· You want protection during storms.

A sump pump can be a good measure even if you have not yet had any problems with water.