Tag: installation

A Sump Pump: The Gift That Keeps Giving

Sump pumps give people the protection they need against water damage and moisture buildup in their basements or crawl spaces. Without a sump pump, the lowest floor of a house can fill with floodwater or groundwater. Sump pumps provide Rancho Cordova homeowners with an important line of defense against floodwaters and other damaging effects of excessive moisture.

What Are Sump Pumps?

A sump pump can detect rising water levels in the sump pit, typically located at the lowest point of a home. Once the rising water level activates the switch, the sump pump will redirect the groundwater or floodwater into the plumbing system to deposit the water outside. This helps protect homes from structural damage due to excessive water exposure over time. Additionally, sump pumps provide homeowners peace of mind knowing that their homes will be protected during heavy rains and flooding. 

In addition to helping prevent damage caused by floodwaters, sump pumps are also helpful in preventing mold and mildew from forming in a home. Since mold and mildew thrive in damp, moist environments, the action of a sump pump can help dry out these areas to discourage fungal growth. This helps improve air quality and ensures families are safe from potential health hazards. 

Finally, installing a sump pump can also reduce energy costs by keeping moisture out of basements and crawl spaces (where insulation can become ineffective when it becomes wet). Some sump pumps even come with energy-saving features such as timer controls or recirculating pumps that use less electricity while still getting the job done. Depending on the type of sump pump installed, they can run off battery, electricity, or even water.

The Main Types of Sump Pumps

The most commonly used sump pumps are submersible, pedestal, and battery-operated. Although they work differently, all pumps are used for the same reason. Once the water has been successfully drained, it can be dumped in a well, creek, or street drain. Depending on the type of sump pump, additional attachments may be necessary. 

A pedestal sump pump uses a separate motor and additional equipment to clear water. It can directly send water to the drainage spot by connecting a hose to the basin. Since the motor rests higher than the sump pit where water collects, pedestal pumps usually last longer than submersible ones. The only real downsides to a pedestal pump are that they can’t handle the same large quantity of water that submersible sump pumps can, and they are louder. Since it is not submerged in water, the motor can be heard more. 

Submersible sump pumps and their motor are located inside the sump pit, unlike the pedestal pump. Many homeowners prefer this type of sump pump because it can handle larger quantities of water and is quieter than pedestal sump pumps. However, they are typically more expensive than a pedestal pump and don’t last as long. 

Secondary or Backup Options

When the power is out due to a storm or other weather event, sump pumps powered by electricity won’t work, and a secondary or backup sump pump is needed. A battery-operated backup can still funnel water away from the home to the outdoors regardless of electricity. This is ideal when powerful winds accompany big storms. A battery-operated sump pump starts working when the switch is turned on by rising water, just like the types that run on electricity. 

A water-powered sump pump backup can also be used. A water-powered backup does use a substantial amount of water to run and will increase the water bill. Although this is not always an ideal solution, it’s effective for removing floodwater in an emergency when there’s no power. 

Combination sump pumps are another type of pump that combines two different types of pumping technology into one unit. They feature both an automatic primary pump and a secondary, battery-operated backup that kicks in when the primary pump fails. This type of sump pump is ideal for homeowners who want the convenience of knowing their home will stay dry even if a power outage occurs.

About JR Putman Plumbing

JR Putman Plumbing is a family-owned and operated company serving Rancho Cordova, CA, and the surrounding areas since 1981. They provide same-day service, 24-hour live answer, and a beneficial membership plan. Call them today for sump pump services in Rancho Cordova, CA.

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