What Is a Sump Pump (And How Can One Help)?
Most homes with basements or crawl spaces have a sump system designed to collect water as it gathers under the foundation and pump it out somewhere safer. Sump pump systems use drain tiles in the yard and under the basement floor to collect excess moisture and keep it away from the foundation. These perforated drain pipes direct the water to a sump pump basin.
When the water level in the basin is high enough, it triggers the sump pump float switch and turns on the pump, sending the collected water safely away from the home.
Benefits of Sump Pumps
Homes in humid regions like Chicago need a sump system to withstand flooding and combat environmental issues like mold growth or pest infestation. Some major benefits of sump pumps include:- Flooding prevention: When installed correctly, a sump pump system protects the home from routine humidity and excess water like heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or burst pipes.
- Mold and mildew protection: Sump pump systems rid the basement of humidity, otherwise encouraging mold and mildew growth. This enhances indoor air quality and protects inhabitants from related respiratory issues.
- Increased property value: Home buyers love to see signs that a home is well-cared for. Sump pumps show there is less chance for hidden damage.
- Reduced heating costs: Decreasing humidity lessens the workload for an HVAC system, allowing it to work more efficiently for a longer period.
- Pest infestation prevention: Insects like termites prefer humid environments and are far less likely to move when a sump pump removes their beloved moisture.
Submersible and Pedestal Sump Pumps Compared
There are two main types of sump pumps to consider.
A submersible sump pump is an all-in-one unit that houses the pump and the motor together. The pump sits below the ground at the bottom of the basin, taking up less space and operating more quietly. These tend to work more powerfully and clog less often than pedestal pumps, but their location makes them more challenging to maintain and affects longevity.
Pedestal sump pumps separate the motor on a pedestal above the sump basin. This location is much easier to access for sump pump maintenance, and these pumps usually last longer. However, they need more space and cannot operate as powerfully as a submersible pump.
How Secondary or Backup Sump Pumps Increase Security
Backup sump systems offer greater peace of mind and security against flood damage, especially if the electricity goes out in a storm or the primary pump fails.Secondary pumps refer to a second pump system wired in at a slightly higher elevation than the first, ready to kick on if the primary pump fails.
However, backup sump pumps do not rely on the same electric system. Instead, they use batteries or water pressure to power the unit, meaning they may still operate even if the power goes down.
Battery-backed sump pumps are more versatile but require frequent checkups to ensure the battery is still charged and the unit works. Water-powered sump pumps are more hands-off and reliable, but they run up water bills and may not be allowed or usable in all areas.
About VanderBosch Plumbing Inc.
With over 30 years of service to the Chicago area, VanderBosch Plumbing Inc. is the first choice of many for all plumbing, sewer, and drain needs. They offer 24/7 assistance for emergencies that strike at all times of day, same-day and after-hours services, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call today for sump pump services in Chicago, IL.
