Why Sump Pumps Are Important
Sump pumps are necessary to protect the home from flooding. Natural causes like rain and snow are known to cause severe water damage in San Antonio. Using a sump pump, water can be easily moved from the basement to the outdoors. This is especially important during the springtime.
How Sump Pumps Work
A sump pump is a handy device that most homeowners need to keep mold and mildew from forming in the basement. The sump is essentially a carved hole below the basement floor. This pit is known as the sump pump basin. The pump inside the basin is designed to remove excess water. Several valves are inside the pump, and pressure measurements are used to sense how high the water is flowing.
Before flooding occurs, the pump automatically filters excess water from the basement to a separate location outside. This happens when water or battery power activates the sump pump float switch. Depending on the type of energy used, there are a few different types of sump pumps available.
Which Sump Pump Is Best?
The two main types of sump pumps are known as submersible and pedestal. Within these categories are separate brands that have varying life expectancies. Depending on where a homeowner lives, certain types work better than others.
Submersible sump pumps are ideal for rainy climates. They work hard to redirect water quickly in a major storm. Usually, these pumps are located in the basement or crawlspace and sit below ground. While they are considered much quieter than pedestal pumps, they are more difficult to maintain.
Pedestal sump pumps are easier to repair because they sit on the floor instead of inside the ground. Sump pump installation is relatively easy and can be done in under three hours. Although these pumps are less expensive, they do not provide as much power as submersible pumps, so a sump pump battery backup is recommended.
Testing the Sump Pump Before Spring
The heaviest rainfall occurs during spring. Experts suggest testing the sump pump before March to ensure proper flood resistance.
A float is a device that sits along the surface of the water. Once water from the sump pit reaches a designated level, the float switch is activated. Lifting the float will allow homeowners to test the pump motor before the beginning of a storm.
To troubleshoot the sump pump, try rebooting. This involves unplugging the power source, waiting thirty seconds, and replugging it. The power source uses electricity from a ground fault circuit interrupter. This switch should be reset every so often. If the sump pump is running but water is not pumping fast enough, this may be due to a blockage in the discharge pipes. A certified technician can help unclog the pit before a storm.
Regular maintenance is recommended for both pedestal and submersible pumps. Professional inspections allow the home to stay dry during both average and severe storms. Without a working sump pump, homeowners face expensive home repairs and water damage that may cause symptoms such as headaches, allergies, and respiratory issues.
About A&A Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling
A&A Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling is a family-owned business that was voted Titan of the Year. They always arrive on time, offering personalized solutions with upfront pricing on every service call. To learn more about their annual sump pump maintenance services in San Antonio, TX, call today.
