What Is A Sump Pump & Why Do I Need One?

Do your friends or neighbors ever mention their sump pump after a rainstorm? They might claim that without this device they would be up to their ankles in water and up to their necks in water damage repair costs. Learn more about sump pumps here to help you decide if you need one.

WHAT IS A SUMP PUMP?

A sump pump is a submersible device that is installed in a dug sump pit at the lowest point in your home, such as the basement or crawl space. This small but important addition to your home will help prevent flooding in your basement.

Here's how it works: Most of the time the pump is in standby mode, just waiting for it to be needed. When it starts to rain heavily, the ground around your home will be saturated. Excess groundwater flows into the swamp and it begins to fill with water. This activates the sump pump float switch and turns the pump on.

By draining water from the pit and into a nearby storm sewer, dry well, or retention basin, the sump pump prevents groundwater from rising to the level of your basement, which could lead to flooding. Here’s how to consider a sump pump as additional flood insurance!

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A SUMP PUMP?

A sump pump is a small investment with big benefits. Here's how you can benefit from installing a sump pump in your home:

  • Defend your basement against flooding
  • Protect the paint and other wall coverings from peeling
  • Safeguard basement appliances such as the washer, dryer, and spare freezer from corrosion
  • Reduce mold, mildew, and fungus growth
  • Discourage termites and other insect invasions
  • Improve indoor air quality
  • Keep your foundation intact
  • Make the basement drier and more comfortable year-round
  • Enjoy peace of mind, no matter what the weather is doing
  • Meet a requirement for homeowner’s insurance coverage of basement flood damage

DO I NEED A SUMP PUMP FOR MY HOME?

While the benefits of sump pumps are obvious, some properties need these devices more than others. We recommend installing a sump pump if any of the following conditions apply:

  • They live in a climate where it rains or snows heavily. Here in the Northeast we get more than our fair share of humidity. Unlike the desert climate of the West, basements here are very susceptible to flooding.
  • Your house is on a property that is at risk of flooding. Poorly drained soils, low-lying properties, and homes surrounded by hills are more likely to cause groundwater levels to rise during heavy rains, snowstorms, and spring runoff.
  • Have you ever had water problems? If your basement has ever flooded or you regularly suffer from high humidity, it would be wise to install a sump pump.
  • You have a finished basement. Even if your home is not classified as high-risk, consider protecting your underground living space with an affordable sump pump.

SCHEDULE SUMP PUMP INSTALLATION

If you have decided that a sump pump is right for your home in Jacksonville, Tyler, Athens, or Palestine, Texas it is important to have the device installed and maintained by a plumbing professional. Bannister Plumbing & Air can meet your needs! We offer upfront written quotes and a no-surprises pricing policy that gives you the confidence to move forward with your project. You can rest assured that our fully trained, licensed and certified professionals will guide you through the sump pump installation process so you know exactly what to expect.

Ready to get started? Contact Bannister Plumbing & Air at (903) 201-4820 to speak with a qualified plumber about sump pump installation.