No, sump pumps are not universally required in Ann Arbor homes. However, city rules do require footing drains to discharge to a sump pump system or other approved outlet rather than into the sanitary sewer.

That means many newer or retrofitted homes in our area will need a sump pump as part of code compliance, and even where not mandated, a sump pump is often the best defense against flooding and water damage.

Living in the Ann Arbor area means dealing with quite a bit of rain and snowfall. All this precipitation means you may occasionally have to worry about your basement or crawl space flooding, especially if you live in a low-lying area.

The main concern is that the ground around a house can get so waterlogged that water begins seeping in through the foundation. This can lead to extensive damage and create the potential for mold growth inside the house. Many homes in our area benefit from having a properly sized sump pump to keep moisture under control.

We’ll explain what you need to know, including how sump pumps work and how to choose the best option for your home.

How Sump Pumps Work

A sump basin (sometimes called a sump pit) is recessed into the basement or crawl space slab near the footing, typically 18–24 inches in diameter and about 22–36 inches deep. Perimeter drain tile routes groundwater into this basin so it can be collected before it seeps through the concrete.

A float or pressure switch on the pump activates when water rises in the basin. The pump moves water up and out through discharge piping that carries it safely away from the home. Run time depends on inflow, basin size, lift height and pump capacity; during heavy rains the pump may cycle frequently as the basin refills.

Types of Sump Pumps

There are two primary types of sump pumps: pedestal and submersible. A submersible pump sits in the basin underwater; a pedestal pump’s motor sits above the basin with a suction pipe reaching down into it.

Submersible pumps are typically quieter (the water muffles motor noise) and can move a high volume of water, which makes them a strong choice for homes with basements or higher inflow rates. They generally cost more up front. Service life varies by build quality and duty cycle, but modern submersibles can provide many years of reliable protection with proper maintenance.

Pedestal pumps usually have a lower upfront cost and the motor stays out of the water, which can contribute to long life. They tend to be louder, and because the motor is air-cooled, they may overheat on prolonged continuous runs. For homes that see only occasional, lighter inflow, a pedestal pump can be a practical option.

How to Choose the Right Sump Pump for Your Home

In addition to choosing pump type, you’ll need adequate capacity. Sump pumps are rated by gallons per hour (GPH) at a given “head” (vertical lift). The right size depends on how prone your home is to groundwater, basin size, total vertical lift, horizontal run, pipe diameter and elbows.

When in doubt, it’s better to choose a model with a modest safety margin rather than undersizing. That said, going excessively large can lead to short-cycling in light inflow conditions, which isn’t ideal for longevity. The best approach is to have an experienced local plumber size the pump and discharge for your specific home and site conditions.

The Importance of a Battery Backup

Storms that cause groundwater surges can also knock out power. A dedicated battery backup system keeps your sump running when you need it most. A typical setup includes a controller/charger and a 12-volt deep-cycle battery; the pump or a secondary backup pump draws from the battery automatically during an outage.

Actual runtime depends on battery capacity (amp-hours), pump wattage and duty cycle. As a rule of thumb, expect hours, not days, of continuous runtime from a single standard battery, with more extended total coverage if the pump cycles intermittently or you install higher-capacity batteries or a second battery. For extended outages, consider pairing with a home standby generator for seamless protection.

Local Discharge & Safety Notes

  • Do not discharge sump water into the sanitary sewer. Route to an approved storm outlet or to daylight per local rules.
  • Locate the discharge so water drains away from the foundation and doesn’t create icing on sidewalks or a nuisance to neighbors.
  • Include a check valve on the discharge line and an air gap where required.
  • Use a properly grounded and protected electrical receptacle; avoid extension cords and ensure the circuit meets code.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Ann Arbor, our experienced plumbers can professionally see to all your sump pump needs. As a locally owned and operated company, we’re familiar with area requirements and groundwater conditions and will provide a tailored solution that fits your home and budget.

We specialize in sump pump installation and replacements, including new basin installs, and we offer expert maintenance and repair to keep your system ready when you need it. If your sump pump ever fails during a storm, you can count on us for 24/7 emergency help.

To schedule service with Ann Arbor’s most trusted plumbing company, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® today.