A sump pump refers to a pump with a floating switch activation system placed or located in a sump pit, which means a hole in your basement floor. Generally, the switch is off in a lowered position. However, if the water level rises, it pushes the flotation device on the switch upward, and it delivers a signal for the pump to be activated. The pump then drains the water, and as a consequence, lowers the flotation device on the switch until it reaches its starting or initial position, thereby turning the pump off.
Pumps can come in two types: submersible types, which you can find at the bottom of the sump pit, and pedestal types, located above the floor near the sump pit.
There are instances, however, when heavy rainfall occurs. The effect of heavy rain differs based on the geography and the type of soil of the area. On the one hand, if the soil is porous and has a low moisture content, then the water from the rain will drain through it quickly. On the other hand, if the soil is as porous as the first, or it was already very wet, the water cannot drain quickly and, therefore, moisture will build up around the house’s foundation, and hydrostatic pressure will push it through the floors and walls.
Where will all the excess water go? Should you be worried
When the water does not drain quickly, it will build up around the house’s foundation, and hydrostatic pressure will push the water through the floors and walls. Hydrostatic pressure refers to the pressure that any fluid in a confined space exerts. The build-up of this pressure is potentially devastating since this hydrostatic pressure can cause buckling and cracking of the walls and foundation of a house. Water may enter through the weakest points in your wall, including cracks and prores in the concrete. In most cases, the water will find its way through the joint between the wall and the floor, which is why it’s important to get your sump pump ready for the upcoming season.
Issues hydrostatic pressure can cause
- Basement foundation damage
- Wet basement problems
- Mould and mildew growth
- Cracks in basement walls caused by expanding and shrinking
That is why it is important to have a drainage system in your home to prevent this from happening.
What is the purpose of a sump pump in your home
A sump pump aims to prevent flooding and subsequent water damage in homes or business establishments. Sump pumps prevent flooding through the collection of water build-up near a home, business establishment, or other building and disperse the water from the structure. When excessive precipitation occurs in certain areas, water can accumulate and flood surrounding buildings, costing thousands of dollars in losses and damages. As such, it is necessary to have a sump pump to prevent this from happening.
What happens when your sump pump does not work properly
Without a working sump pump, the excess water from a severe storm will begin to accumulate at the lowest point in your home. That point may be the foundation, crawlspace, or basement. No matter where the water settles, it will begin to warp wood, cause rot, and lead to mold growth.
Signs your sump pump may be failing
- Due to age
- Lack of water
- Clogged Clump
- Power Loss
How to check your sump pump
The following are the steps to test a sump pump:
- Locate the exit pipe – Locating the exit pipe should be the first step. After locating the first exit pipe – which drains the water from the pump outside the home – it should be carefully inspected to make sure it is free of foreign materials, such as dirt or other debris;
- Remove debris – If debris clogs the pump, one should remove this debris to de-clog the sump pump.
- Trace the two electrical cords of the sump pump – To test a sump pump, trace the two electrical cords of the sump pump. Both cables should be unplugged; you should plug only the pump cord into the outlet. Then, if you hear a humming sound when turning on the pump, it means that the pump works. You must then connect the two cords back as they were. For single wired pumps, water should be poured into the pump pit slowly until the float rises. The pump should kick out. While the pump is on, the water must be pumping out. After that, the pump should turn itself off when it has removed all the moisture.
Should you have a sump pump backup
Yes, one should install a backup sump pump to guarantee that your sump pump can prevent basement flooding. Your contractor may recommend that you also install a backup sump pump that is battery operated. If the primary sump pump fails, your backup pump will activate automatically.
When to contact a professional plumber
It is time to contact a professional plumber when the sump pumps circuit trips continually when you turn it on. Certain causes may cause circuit trippings, such as damaged wiring, damaged system switch, or stuck impeller. In all those cases, it is necessary to contact a professional plumber to prevent damage to the sump pump.
Are you experiencing problems with build-up or a typical clogged drain? Our team at MidCity Plumbers can help! Our plumbing experts offer a wide variety of plumbing services to all customers in Burnaby and the surrounding areas. We cover all your plumbing needs, from leaks, clogs to drainage problems. Our reliable team will deliver every service with excellence and the right tools. If you also need emergency services for your sump pump, give us a call on 📞 (778)-772-8676 today, and we are more than happy to help you out!
