Sump pumps are so common that it’s estimated nearly two-thirds of American homes have existing systems installed.
They protect your foundation from water damage resulting from heavy rains, snowmelt, or if you live in an area that’s prone to flooding. It’s important they run properly.
Keep reading below to learn when it’s time to install a new sump pump.
How Does Your Sump Pump Work?
Sump pumps are a solution for basement and crawlspace waterproofing.
Water is collected into a sump pit basin from the existing drain tile system in your basement or crawlspace and then pumped away from the foundation to avoid damage.
Two types of sump pumps are available for homeowners. A submersible sump pump sits in the bottom of the sump pit. When water fills the sump pit basin and the water level reaches a certain point, the pump is activated by a float attached to a switch on the pump. It begins to suck up water through a vented grate and discharges the water through plumbing PVC, diverting it outside.
Pedestal pumps are lifted above the sump pit. Water is sucked up through an inlet pipe and draws any extra water out. These are typically on a larger scale used in commercial buildings.
Warning Signs That You’ll Have to Install a New Sump Pump
As a responsible homeowner, you’re probably conducting regular maintenance on your sump pump to keep it in tip-top shape. Repairs can also be made to keep your machine running for a long time.
But, how do you know when it’s time to install a new sump pump? Typically, one does not know they need a new sump pump until the existing pump fails, giving you a wet or flooded basement.
If your existing pump is broken, the float is damaged or the switch activating the pump has failed, it will cause your drain tile system to back up and flood your basement or crawlspace. It can also be damaged if your sump pump is not the proper size for the sump pit.
Either of these issues will cause your drain tile system to back up with water, resulting in a flooded basement. There should never be pooled water in your basement if you have a properly functioning sump pump. If there is, it may be time to call for home basement waterproofing services.
Professionals will need to install a new pit and sump system, sized for the proper square footage of your basement or crawlspace.
Interior and Exterior Drain Tile Systems
Two systems are available for homeowners for foundation waterproofing: interior drain tile systems or exterior drain tile systems.
Foundation damage is caused by hydrostatic pressure pushing through cracks in your floor slab or cove joints. This is a result of having too much water in your soil.
USS can install interior drain tile systems around the perimeter of your basement walls. The tiles will direct water to your sump pump.
An exterior drain tile system can be installed if you have a finished basement and don’t want to tear out the drywall. It will require the USS team of professionals to excavate the entire depth of your foundation. We’ll install the drainage tiles along the foundation with a waterproofing membrane.
Monitor Your Sump Pump
Checking your sump pump regularly and maintaining it is the best way to ensure it lasts for a long time. If the sump pump is running but water is still pooling in your basement or crawlspace, it may be time to install a new sump pump.
Call us today at 847-382-2882 if you have any questions about residential basement waterproofing services or if you’d like to schedule a free consultation.
