Getting the Home's Sump Pump Ready for Spring

Prepare Sump Pumps to Protect the Household Before Flooding Occurs 

Sump pumps are vital in many homes, helping prevent flooding and water damage. They are typically installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace to collect water that enters the space, either from heavy rainfall, melting snow, or rising groundwater, and redirect it away from the property. This blog post will discuss sump pumps, their advantages, and how to keep them working well so they can continue protecting the home. 

Sump Pumps Explained

A sump pump is a valuable piece of equipment that can prevent flooding and extensive water damage to a house and its foundation. This is achieved by pumping water that has accumulated in the sump pit or sump pump basin through discharge pipes leading outside and away from the home to a pre-designated area, safeguarding the home’s structural integrity, preventing water damage, and mitigating the risk of mold and mildew growth.

Sump pumps are designed to turn on automatically when needed, without requiring manual intervention from the homeowner, so they can protect the household even if nobody is home. A float switch makes this automatic activation possible. As water levels rise in the sump pit, so does the float. When it reaches a predetermined height, the float switch turns on the pump. 

The Two Main Types of Sump Pumps

There are two main types of primary sump pumps: submersible sump pumps and pedestal sump pumps. Each has pros and cons, allowing homeowners to select one based on which factors are most important for them. Here are some of their differences:

• Noise Level: Submersible sump pumps are much quieter than pedestal sump pumps because the motor is submerged. 
• Cost: Pedestal sump pumps are typically less expensive than submersible sump pumps.
• Lifespan: Pedestal pumps also tend to last longer than submersible sump pumps.
• Power: The submersible pump is more powerful and can move more water more quickly than a pedestal pump.

Keep Sump Pumps Working With Regular Testing and Maintenance

To ensure a sump pump is functioning correctly, homeowners should regularly test the system by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to activate the pump and remove the water before turning it off. This simple test can check the sump pump's operational status. However, it's also crucial to call a professional for regular maintenance to check for potential issues. Regular maintenance and testing ensure the system is operational before it is needed.

Additionally, installing a battery-operated backup for the sump pump or another backup option can provide an extra layer of protection. In instances where power outages occur and the primary sump pump loses power, such as during severe storms, a backup ensures that the home remains protected from flooding and the associated damages.

About Maxwell-White Plumbing

Maxwell-White Plumbing has been serving West Salem and the surrounding areas since 1994. They provide flat rate pricing, the latest technology, and prompt and professional service. Call them for plumbing and sump pump services in West Salem, WI. 

Contact Information:

Maxwell-White Plumbing

W3032 County Rd B
West Salem, WI 91010
United States

Josh Maxwell
(608) 786-4004
https://www.maxwell-white.com/