With the arrival of spring and its warmer weather, there usually is an increase in flooded basements. This is due to an increase in groundwater from thawing and an increase in rainy weather. Additionally, with the ground surrounding your home absorbing the heat that comes from your house, it remains unfrozen throughout winter.
This creates a perfect space for water to drain into, while everything else is frozen. A sump pump keeps this water from making its way into your home and protects it from flooding.
What Exactly Is A Sump Pump?
Sump pumps were made to take excess water that drains into your home and pump it outside. The sump pump is typically located at the lowest point in your home’s basement in an area called the sump pit. The sump pit is a hole that is about 2 feet deep and 18 inches wide.
As the sump pit fills with water, a float activator arm or pressure sensor automatically turns on the pump. When the pump turns on, it drains water to a spot away from your foundation where it won’t make its way back into your home. Additionally, sump pumps are equipped with a check valve which ensures the water draining from your house does not flow right back into the sump pump.
What Are The Benefits of Sump Pumps?
Having a sump pump comes with numerous benefits that help defend your home against flooded basements. Some of these benefits include:
- Decreasing the chance of your basement baseboards getting water damage
- Helping to protect your basement walls from peeling
- Reducing the chances of mold, mildew, and other fungi growth
- Helping to keep your basement humidity levels low and improving indoor air quality
- Helping to maintain your home’s foundation
- Protecting basement appliances, such as washers and dryers
- Preventing termites and other insect invasions
Sump pumps give you extra peace of mind to know you’re protecting your biggest investment–your home–from potential water damage.
Call GEM for a FREE sump pump installation estimate from one of our expert plumbers.
And if you have an issue you just need a little extra support with, try our new Remote Assist offering! Get virtual support for common repairs from the comfort of your home. Learn more about Remote Assist here.
