You may have heard about the benefits of a Basement Sump Pump, but aren’t sure how to install and maintain it properly. Read this article to learn the details of installing a pump. In addition, we’ll cover submersible and pedestal pumps. We’ll also discuss the cost of a sump pump. Keeping your basement dry is essential for your safety and well-being. It doesn’t have to be a nightmare, however!
Installing A Sump Pump
In order to install a basement sump pump, you will first need to locate the source of water. After identifying this source, you can install the pump. Before you can start installing the pump, you should make sure that the float valve is free to move up and down. Once it is installed, you need to place a check valve at the pump’s discharge valve. You will also need a discharge hose to connect the pump to the exterior of your home.
A large hole needs to be dug at the lowest point in the basement. Dig the hole large enough to accommodate the sump pump, and make sure that the top edge is flush with the floor level. If you have a concrete basement floor, you may need to use a jackhammer or sledgehammer to break through the concrete. Once you’ve dug the hole, you need to make sure that the area is level enough for the sump pump basin to fit inside.
Maintenance Of A Sump Pump
When repairing a sump pump, there are a few basic maintenance procedures that should always be followed. If your pump is prone to malfunction, you may want to hire a professional to do it for you. Check the pump regularly for signs of problems, including excessive vibration during operation. You should also test your pump periodically, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. If you notice the pump has stopped working, you should contact a professional immediately.
Check the sump pump’s battery backup system at least once a year, and change the battery as necessary. Batteries can run out, especially in heavy storms, and are costly to replace. Also, consider using a backup power source for your sump pump, such as a generator. Power outages can be a real headache, and it is very difficult to dry a wet basement after a pump malfunction.
Submersible Vs. Pedestal Pumps
If you’re in the market for a new basement sump pump, you may be wondering if you should opt for a submersible model or a pedestal one. Both models are great choices for flooding problems, but they have some distinct advantages and disadvantages. Pedestal pumps tend to last longer than submersible pumps, and they’re also cheaper to purchase. However, you must be aware that the main difference between these two types of pumps is their location – pedestal models have a more noticeable location, and submersible ones are submerged and hidden. They’re also much more prone to noise, making them less suitable for areas where children and pets could play.
As far as the design of the pumps goes, submersible pumps are generally more efficient than pedestal models, and they’re ideal for homes that are low-lying. In addition to being more efficient, submersible pumps often have battery backups, which can be a great asset during storms or power outages. In the event of a power outage, the backup battery will pump out water in the basement.
Cost Of A Sump Pump
A sump pump is an essential part of any home, and a basement can be particularly dangerous. While many basements are equipped with a drainage system, there are some instances when this isn’t possible. If you have a non-cemented basement floor, you can save on the cost of installation by not having to dig through a concrete slab. Otherwise, you may have to drill a hole through the concrete slab to get to the sump pump.
Sump pumps are not cheap, so you should expect to pay between $700 and $1,600 to get a fully functioning one. You’ll want to select a high-quality, durable pump that will last for years without having to be replaced. Some models also come with backup systems. It’s worth noting that the cost of a basement sump pump is higher than for an additional pump. But if you’re not a homeowner, it’s a good investment in your home and peace of mind.
Problems With A Sump Pump
A few problems with a basement sump pump may seem harmless. The pump will cycle on and off if it experiences excessive water. If the pump keeps cycling on and off, it could be due to a faulty float switch or wiring problem. If it makes rattling sounds, it’s likely the impeller has jammed. However, there are some more serious problems with a sump pump.
Regardless of the cause, the discharge pipe should be cleaned regularly to prevent clogs and debris from getting into the system. If possible, you should protect the exit point from freezing pipes. Another potential problem is a power cut. You should always turn off your electrical power before repairing or replacing a sump pump. This is important because if you do not turn off the power, you could be at risk of electric shock!
Battery Backup For A Sump Pump
There are two types of battery backup for a basement sump pump. One type is a standard 12-volt lead-acid vehicle battery, which is designed to provide high levels of current for a brief period. However, they do not provide the same level of protection for a basement sump pump as a high-quality battery backup. The biggest disadvantage of a 12-volt vehicle battery as a backup for a basement sump pump is its limited lifespan. Another type of backup for a basement sump pump is a water-powered battery. These are a great option if you want a backup sump pump for a longer period of time, but are not ideal for this type of device.
In order to maintain your battery backup for a basement sump pump, you will need to check its voltage periodically. The best backup sump pumps use lead-acid batteries and have a green indicator light, which indicates a strong battery charge. If your basement sump pump is equipped with a battery backup, make sure you check the voltage of the battery every six months. A voltmeter or volt-ohm meter is a useful tool for testing battery voltage. These tools are available at most hardware stores, and you should purchase one in order to check the battery’s health.
