Springtime is sump pump time at Approved Plumbing! This is when April showers can bring a lot more damage than you’d think.
Sump pumps are used to remove excess water that has accumulated in a sump pit. A large volume of water can quickly enter the sump pump due to thawing of snow, excess ground water and most likely and unexpected heavy rainfall. These are commonly found in the basement of homes where the water table is above the foundation of a home, but can be found in industrial and commercial properties as well. Sump pumps take the water away from the property, often sending the water to municipal storm drains.
Sump pumps are critical to prevent flooding. A faulty switch, failed motor or clogged impeller can cause hundreds of gallons of water to flood the lower level of a property, causing significant damage. Sump pumps, back-up sump pumps, stationary pumps and dual sump pits are all recommended to avoid damage. At Approved Plumbing, we also recommend a three year warranty, pumps with stainless steel shafts, dual float switches and ones that are made in America!
An inspection can determine if your property needs one. The inspection should also help determine what type of pump you need, as well as what back-up components should be implemented. Sump pumps are typically hardwired into the property’s electrical system, but it is wise to have a battery backup system in case the electric pump fails. It may seem like overkill, but investing in the proper system can save you from thousands of dollars in costly damage.
If your property already has a sump pump, maintenance is key. Most plumbing contractors recommend having your equipment examined every year. If your sump pump runs frequently, you might consider having it examined more often. Plumbing contractors will typically look for dirt, gravel and sand that can obstruct the pump’s ability to drain. As with any mechanical device, proper maintenance will keep it functioning properly and may extend the life of the product!
Leave a Reply