If you’ve ever woken to a flooded basement, then you may be wondering if installing a sump pump should be on your to-do list. A sump pump is a submersible pump that’s installed in a basement or crawlspace to remove water that accumulates due to heavy rain or flooding. Automatically activated when water infiltrates the sump pit where it’s located, a sump pump is invaluable in preventing flood damage. Your plumber in Gloucester can easily install a sump pump in your home or service your existing sump pump when needed.
Do You Need a Sump Pump?
Not all homes need sump pump installation, although sump pumps are a smart precautionary upgrade in any home. A sump pump is a definite must for homes that:
- Are located in an area that normally sees a fair share of flooding. History tends to repeat itself, especially in flood plains and other areas of historically high water levels or storm surge.
- Are located in low-lying or flat areas. Remember, groundwater can get through even tiny cracks in the foundation of a home, so if your home is at the bottom of a hill or on a slope, a sump pump is probably a good idea.
- Have finished basements where valuables are stored. Water from a single flood can ruin furniture, leave behind soggy carpets and stained walls, and even create an ideal environment for mold to grow.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
A sump pump is automatically triggered into action by one of two mechanisms, depending on the type of sump pump. This includes when the water rises to a particular height (floater style sump pumps) or a specific pressure (pressure sensor type sump pumps) in your basement or crawlspace. Similarly, when the water height recedes, or the pressure falls to a specific level, the pump automatically shuts itself off again. Most sump pumps are hardwired into the home’s electrical system, although some are driven solely by water.
Ready to Install Your Sump Pump?
Sump pump installation can be a godsend if your basement typically takes on water. Don’t risk a complicated DIY installation of your sump pump. A licensed professional can install your sump pump easily and correctly so that your home is protected from the all-too-common peril of flooding. Count on the master pros at Hutchinson for installation or troubleshooting of all types of plumbing in New Jersey.