Water leaks in the basement can seriously damage your home. Homeowners often don’t catch leaks in these secluded areas, which is why they install a sump pump. Below is a guide to sump pump installation to ensure you take advantage of this leak solution.

Understanding Sump Pumps

What Are They?

Sump pumps capture pooling groundwater in basements and crawl spaces during a leak. They’re installed in a sump pit and activate when a certain amount of water collects. They then drain the water from the sump pit and eject it from your home in a pipe system.

There are two types: submersible and pedestal. The first sits beneath standing water, so they’re quieter than the pedestal. This is why they’re popular in finished basements where families hang out and sleep. Pedestal sump pumps are cheaper and louder but are ideal for unfinished basements where the noise won’t bother anyone.

What Are the Benefits?

Sump pumps drain water before it can damage your home. Water damage weakens wood, erodes basement walls and foundations, and causes mold growth. It will also damage your possessions. This severely weakens your home’s structural integrity. Mold can cause flu-like symptoms in family members and even require hospitalization. Spores can also spread through your home quickly through the ventilation system.

Sump pump installation is an easy process. Professionals find the lowest point in the basement and dig a hole. They’ll run PVC pipes to the basement wall. Sump pumps only need to be cleaned and tested every three to four months. Make sure the power cord isn’t frayed or damaged. Wipe debris from the pump and remove standing water from the pit with a Shop-Vac®.

Next, pour five gallons of water into the pit. It should raise the detection bobber in the pit to the top and cause the pump to turn on. Contact sump pump repair professionals if you need a hand.

If you’re interested in exploring sump pump installation further, contact A Gombos Basement Waterproofing. They’ve served Bethany, CT, for over 55 years, handling various basement waterproofing services. They’ll recommend a sump pump, waterproof coatings, and other flooding prevention options you can find on their website. Call (203) 530-1129 to schedule a consultation.