How Does a Sump Pump Prevent Flooding?

Flooding is one of the most serious threats to a home. While plumbing problems like burst pipes can cause floods, certain scenarios make flooding more common in the case of heavy rains. Some of the features of a home that can make it more prone to flooding can include things like:
  • Basements
  • Crawl spaces
  • Poorly graded build site
  • Low-lying property
When these features are present in homes, most builders will include a special system of drains to help deal with excess rainwater. An integral part of these systems are devices called sump pumps. These pumps quickly move water away from the home to keep it from backing up and causing damage.

Benefits of Sump Pumps

Sump pumps do a great job protecting homes from complications caused by excess water. Some of the things that sump pumps can help prevent are:
  • Water flowing into basements or crawl spaces
  • Mold or mildew from excess humidity
  • Foundation damage from shifting, saturated soils
  • Dead spots in the landscape from standing water
  • Insect infestations
  • Structural damage resulting from rotting wood in the home
By installing and maintaining sump pumps, homeowners can ensure their homes are safe from long-term damage from water.

Types of Sump Pumps in Homes

Since sump pumps are part of a drainage system integrated into the home and surrounding grade, plumbers often choose which pump style they need for homeowners. If the owner has a particular affinity for one type, there shouldn’t be a problem switching, but if making that decision is stressful, the existing style of sump pump is the easiest one to stick with if it needs replacement. That said, owners should know the pros and cons of the two most common sump pumps. They are:
  • Submersible Sump Pumps: Submersible sump pumps sit in a water-filled basin. They are sealed for electrical safety, making them difficult to maintain or repair, and replacing them is more expensive. On the other hand, they are faster and quieter when operating.
  • Pedestal Sump Pumps: Pedestal sump pumps sit above the water in the basin. Since the motor is unmuffled, the operation can be louder, but they are easier to inspect. Additionally, they are usually cheaper and generally considered more reliable.

Backup Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are necessary to prevent flood water from flooding into a home. Unfortunately, most rainstorms are accompanied by an increased risk of power outages. In the most unfortunate circumstances, homeowners can find themselves without flood protection when needed. Luckily, backup or secondary sump pumps are available to protect the home during a storm or power outage. Backup sump pumps are battery-powered and designed to stay ready during an outage. Homeowners often use these systems as their primary protection against floods instead of installing a typical sump pump. In some cases, backup systems can be integrated into existing sump pumps to ensure they are always ready to perform. If flooding is a serious threat, homeowners should hedge their bets with a backup sump pump.

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company provides plumbing and HVAC solutions for home and business owners. From troubleshooting commercial freezes to installing sump pumps, their crews are experienced and ready to help. Call today for sump pump services in Midland, TX.
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