If you’re unfamiliar with a sump pump, consider yourself lucky: basically, sump pumps are only needed if your basement is prone to flooding or wetness. This means that you would not have much use for one if your basement is relatively dry throughout the year. If you do need one, get expert advice from Saskatoon plumbing services offered by Perfection Plumbing & Drain Cleaning Ltd.
Additionally, sump pumps are not always the ideal solution to a water problem at home. Certain things, such as an outdoor curtain drain, or proper gutter installation, could be more effective. Sump pumps are the last resort if the flooding problem in your property is extensive.
A Sump Pumps Job
A sump pump is designed to handle precipitation (i.e. rain and melting snow) which accumulates around a building. They are usually needed when a subterranean area of a building—often the basement– is prone to flooding. It essentially acts as a small reservoir under the basement, which holds excess groundwater instead of letting it seep and cause damage.
In choosing a sump pump system for your home, however, you need to take note of a few factors. The first one involves automation—should you choose a manual or automatic one? Manual pumps are less expensive, though automatic ones beat them in terms of convenience.
Options
Next, you have to choose the type. There are two types of sump pumps: the pedestal and the submersible. Pedestal pumps have motors that are mounted on a column and are located outside of the sump basin, above the basement floor. These are more economical, and the exposed mechanism makes for easier repairs. On the other hand, a submersible pump’s motor is installed below the groundwater level, so it is safer, quieter, and less obtrusive. It also works best for finished basements.
Once you get a sump pump installed by qualified Saskatoon plumbers, you also have to remember certain things, foremost of which is that sump pumps are mechanical and will eventually fail (average service life is 10 years). Factors that can cause a sump pump to bog down include power outages, improper installation, and lack of maintenance. To avoid a premature breakdown, remember to regularly maintain your sump pump. If it fails during a worst-case scenario like a heavy rainstorm, you may end up with a major flooding issue on your hands.
Source:
Some Advice About Sump Pumps, BobVila.com