More than half of the houses in the US have issues with water in the basement or under the foundation. As Gardenista’s editor-in-chief can attest, a sump pump is the first line of defense against basement dampness and flooding.
Photograph courtesy of Light Locations.
A laundry room in Somerset.
A sump pump can protect the appliances and other gear in a basement laundry room from moisture or unexpected flooding.
According to Merriam-Webster, a sump is “a low part or area where liquid collects when it drains from something.” A common example is the lowest point in a basement floor. If water seeps in, a sump pump can send the water outside where it belongs.
What is a sump pump?
A basement sump pump sits in a pit below the floor level.
Obviously, a heavy rainstorm can cause moisture in your basement.
Do I need a sump pump?
Photograph by Meredith Swinehart.
Flooding from storms can cause expensive damage.
Image via EPA.
How do sump pumps work?
Sump pumps take the water that gathers in a sump pit and pump it up, out and away from the house. The pipe usually has a one-way check valve to prevent water from flowing back into the pit.
Photograph via Basement Systems.
A perimeter drain pipe, installed in a basement floor to collect water and feed it into the sump pit.
There are two primary types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. A submersible sump pump sits in the sump pit, and can become covered in water as the pits fills up. Its float arm reaches down into the pit and activates the pump as the water level rises.
What type of sump pump should I get?
The Submersible Ion Storm Pro 1/2 Horsepower Cast Iron Stainless Steel Sump Pump has an adjustable vertical float and an oil-filled thermally protected motor to prevent overheating.
The Wayne 1/2 Horsepower Cast Iron Pedestal Sump Pump has a corrosion-resistant steel column and a high-capacity discharge that rivals that of most submersible pumps; $151.99 at Sump Pumps Direct.
How do you install a sump pump?
Weatherproofing and waterproofing are important, so we recommend that you hire a professional for the job.
A submersible sump pump system is covered by a lid to prevent gases from escaping.
Photograph via Basement Systems.
What if my sump pump fails?
High-quality sump pumps are very reliable, but they may stop working for a handful of reasons. The main cause is loss of power: Most residential sump pumps run on electricity, so the storm that pours water into your basement also may knock out the power, thus disabling the pump.
The Basement Watchdog 1/2 Horsepower Combination Sump Pump System is compact enough to fit into a sump pit only 12 inches in diameter.
How do I maintain my sump pump to keep it working?
As with any important household appliance or equipment, your sump pump should receive regular maintenance. And, for an attractive alternative to downspouts, consider Rain Chains.