Moisture is no stranger here in North Carolina. And, during the summer months, moisture’s parents, rain and humidity, are frequent visitors. Weather conditions, such as these, can cause moisture to pool in and around your home. This leads to water damage or flooding, which can cause irreparable harm to your structure.
Protect your home from water damage by installing a sump pump. Sump pumps have one job, and one job only-- keeping any water under or around your home’s foundation from leaking into your basement or crawlspace. Where we live, there is a high water table and a vast amount of rain. Installing a sump pump isn’t a matter of want, it’s a matter of need.
Sump pumps will prevent floods, mold and mildew, and other water-related damage from occurring in your residence, and here is how.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
If you have no clue how a sump pump works, you will after reading this! Here are the key components that make a sump pump, well, pump:
The Sump Pit
This is exactly what you are picturing. The sump pit is a basin that is dug into the ground at the lowest part of your home. Water will naturally drain into this constructed pit where it will meet the pump.
The Pump
There are two kinds of pumps: submersible sump pumps and pedestal sump pumps. A submersible sump pump lives inside of the sump pit, with an enclosed motor. Conversely, a pedestal sump pump is installed above the sump pit, with an upright motor. The pedestal sump pump comes in two parts--the motor that sits on top your floor, and the hose that feeds from the motor into the sump pump. Here are there pros and cons of each:
Submersible Sump Pumps Pros
Save Space
If you are tight on space, this is the sump pump for you. Submersible sump pumps are nicely tucked underneath your floorboards so they won’t take away from your man cave, lemme den, or kid’s play space!
Extremely Quiet
You won’t even remember it’s there! Submersible sump pumps are practically noiseless. This type of pump lives within a waterproof container, submerged underwater, which effectively cancels out any noise the motor emits.
More Horsepower
When taking on extreme moisture, you want a powerful unit. Submersible sump pumps remove water faster than pedestal sump pumps. This is essential for homes exposed to frequent rain, as sump pits can fill fast during substantial downpours.
Does Not Jeopardize Aesthetics
This is the most aesthetically pleasing option, as the entire system is underground. Submersible sump pumps won’t take away from the feng shui of your home, as the entire unit disappears under your floor.
Submersible Sump Pump Cons
There is only one downside to installing a submersible sump pump and that is cost. It is more expensive than pedestal sump pumps, but you do get more bang for your buck. If you want to learn more about costs and submersible sump pump protect contact one of our professional plumbers.
Pedestal Sump Pump Pros
Easy Maintenance
This unit sits above ground, which means it is easily accessible for professional sump pump maintenance!
Long Life
Pedestal sump pumps have longer shelf-lives than submersible sump pumps because they are not submerged in water 24/7. The risk of motor water damage is eliminated with pedestal sump pumps as well.
Economical
If you are on a tight budget, this type of sump pump is for you! Pedestal sump pumps are less expensive to install because the entire unit does not need to be placed underground.
Pedestal Sump Pump Cons
Sits in Your Space
Because this type of sump pump lives partially above your floor, it does take up some of your living space.
Less Horsepower
If your home is exposed to large amounts of rainfall, a pedestal sump pump is not for you. This type of pump will not remove water at the rate your home requires during a rainstorm.
The Switch
Two automatic switches exist within your sump pump: a float activator, and a pressure sensor. When either switch is triggered, your sump pump will turn on and start working to keep your home safe and dry.
The Outlet Drain
The outlet drain directs excess water away from your home.
To find the right sump pump for your home call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Morganton at (828) 548-4048 for professional sump pump advice and installation.