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Sump Pumps Protect Homes and Property

More and more people decide to include sump pumps when building their homes or adding them in later on because of all the benefits they provide. Sump pumps help protect homes and belongings from flooding and water damage, which also protects a homeowner’s wallet. Keep reading to learn the basics of sump pumps and the best types for a home. 

What is a Sump Pump? 

pumpA sump pump is a device that removes unwanted water that gathers in a low point of a home to prevent the house from flooding, water damage, mold growth, and structural integrity issues due to prolonged exposure to moisture. 

The intruding floodwater or groundwater enters the sump pump’s basin and sump pit. The pit is essentially the hole dug into the ground for the basin, and sump pump basins are the containers that collect the water. Once the sump pump detects the water level rising in the basin, it turns on and transports the water through a piping system and away from the home. Because of this, sump pumps are also great for reducing flooded yards during the rainy season. 

Some benefits of sump pumps are:

  • Reduced flooding in the yard
  • Eliminates flooding inside the home
  • Prevents issues with the structural integrity of a home and the home’s foundation
  • Prevents or reduces water damage inside the house and to personal belongings
  • It helps prevent mold and mildew growth 
  • Prevents insect infestation 
  • Prevents water from reaching electrical wiring or electronics and becoming a safety hazard 

Types to Choose From

pumpsThere are several different types of sump pumps for homeowners to choose from, including: 

  • Submersible Sump Pump: Submersible sump pumps are more powerful at removing water and quieter than other types because the motor is located inside the sump basin. However, they are also more expensive than pedestal sump pumps. 
  • Pedestal Sump Pump: Pedestal sump pumps are less expensive and last longer than submersible sump pumps but are not as powerful. They also have their motor above the basin and water, so it’s easier to repair but also greater safety risk to children, and louder.  
  • Combination Sump Pump: Combination sump pumps are great because they combine the primary sump pump with the backup sump pump. Backup sump pumps are important because the two main types of sump pumps above will not function during a power outage. On the other hand, when the power goes out, a combination sump pump has its battery-powered backup that continues working. However, combination sump pumps usually need more than one basin because they are too big to fit in a traditional basin.

If homeowners aren’t sure which sump pump would be right for their homes, they should call their trusted local plumbing company for help. 

Secondary and Backup Sump Pumps

A sump pump backup or secondary sump pump is important to have because sometimes sump pumps get clogged or malfunction and end up not being able to adequately handle preventing the flooding of a home. Many sump pumps also won’t work if the power goes out, which can occur during storms that lead to heavy rainfall and flooding. 

So if homeowners want to be as protected as possible, they should include a secondary or backup sump pump with their installation. This is why combination sump pumps are a great option for homeowners. They don’t have to worry about installing a backup because the combination sump pump already includes a backup!

About Magic Plumbing

Magic Plumbing has over 40 years of experience serving San Fransisco, CA, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront service, convenient scheduling, and no surprises. Call them today for sump pump services in San Fransisco, CA.