Your basement can be a useful and functional space if you ensure it’s protected from flooding. How does a sump pump work in a basement? In a nutshell, it’s the core of a water removal system that keeps flood water, heavy rains, and sewage from damaging your home’s lower areas.
If you’re thinking about installing a sump pump, call us at Dynamic Drains. Our Chelsea’s trusted plumbing services include reliable, cost-effective sump pump installation and replacement.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
Many homeowners don’t think too much about how their plumbing system works as long as everything functions normally. Still, you should know that an effective sump pump is key to basement waterproofing.
A sump pump drives water away from a sump pit, which is a container at your basement’s lowest point. The sump pit forces any water accumulating in this pit into a discharge line, so that it flows away from the house.
A major element of your sump pump is the float switch. When the water level in the sump pit rises, the float switch will rise as well, until a certain point at which the sump pump kicks into action. An electric motor then starts an impeller (a spinning fan-like component), which creates low pressure that pushes water through the sump pump and into the discharge pipe.
Why Your Chelsea, MI Home Needs a Sump Pump
Apart from the technical question of “How does a sump pump work in a basement?” does your home really need a sump pump? In a state with unpredictable weather like Michigan, the answer is definitely yes.
Chelsea is a small and picturesque city with a mild, pleasant climate. In an average year, Washtenaw County, MI, can expect 35 inches of rain, which is close to the national average. Chelsea typically sees the highest number of rainy days in December and January, usually with a minor risk of flooding.
However, in July 2024, Washtenaw County was under flood watch due to Hurricane Beryl. You never know when the next extreme weather event will hit the area, and the risk to your property is higher if your lot slopes toward the house. A sump pump can help protect your home’s structural integrity by driving water away from your basement during floods and heavy rains.
Sump Pump Types
As a homeowner, you may choose between different types of sump pumps, namely:
- Submersible sump pump. As its name implies, this type of sump pump sits inside the sump pit. It’s sealed to keep water from the electrical components and motor. Submersible sump pumps are quiet, powerful, and suitable for large pits and higher pumping capacities.
- Pedestal sump pump. A pedestal sump pump has a motor that sits outside the sump pit. These pumps are usually more affordable but also noisier and less efficient than the submersible variety.
- Battery backup sump pump. This sump pump starts working if your home experiences a power outage and your primary sump pump fails.
Sump Pump Maintenance
Regular maintenance is also a critical part of “How does a sump pump work in a basement?”
Sump pump operation guides stress that a water removal system needs to stay clean to work properly. Leaves and other residues could block the pump and discharge line. You should have your sump pump inspected at least once a year, and you should list your property for sale if and when.
Your sump pump’s inlet screen keeps solids like dirt from passing into the pump. This screen can become clogged and will need cleaning, especially if your pump runs a lot. A sump pump inspection should also verify that the float is free and not jammed. A jammed float won’t be able to control the sump pump’s work.
You can test your sump pump by pouring water into the sump pit. The sump pump should start working and push the water into the discharge line. Please seek professional advice if you notice your sump pump isn’t working.
Call Us for Sump Pump Installation and Replacement in Chelsea, MI
Now that you know the answer to “How does a sump pump work in a basement?” it’s time to look into your basement drainage system. Are you sure your home is safe from water damage?
At Dynamic Drains, we’re here to help you with all your plumbing needs in Chelsea, MI. Our plumbing pros know how to tell if a sump pump is failing and how to make sure your basement stays dry. Call 734-215-5811 or contact us online for affordable, custom-tailored plumbing solutions.