What Is a Sump Pump and How Does It Work?

Sump pump installed in lowest part of home in Toronto, ON.

Installing a sump pump is one of the most important steps in basement waterproofing. In essence, sump pump systems help keep the lowest point in your home—whether it be a basement or crawl space—dry and safe. However, how does a sump pump work exactly, and do you need a sump pump in your home? We’re here to answer these questions and more.

What Is a Sump Pump?

How does a sump pump work? Essentially, sump pumps are installed in a sump pit on your basement floor and can sense when water levels get too high. When this happens, the sump pump will start pumping the excess water out of your basement to prevent any flooding or water damage.

There are two types of primary sump pumps available. Submersible pumps have a pump and motor that are “submerged” in the sump pit. Alternatively, pedestal pumps have a motor that sits on a raised device, or “pedestal.” The size sump pump you need will depend on the size of your house and how deep your home is built into the water table.

How Do Sump Pumps Work?

Before we can discuss if you need one, it’s essential to answer the question: How does a sump pump work? Most sump pumps will turn on automatically when they are needed. However, sump pumps can have different switches, which all work in varying ways.

For instance, a floating switch will activate the pump once the water level rises to a certain point. When the pump turns on, it will remove any accumulated water via a discharge pipe. Sump pumps also include a check valve which helps prevent water that’s already been pumped out from returning to the pit.

When Do You Need a Sump Pump?

Do you need a sump pump in your basement or crawlspace? In short, the answer to this question comes down to your specific situation. If you live in a low-lying area that’s prone to rainstorms and flooding, it’s likely a good idea to install a sump pump for your safety and comfort.

A sump pump works to keep your home dry, so you can avoid water damage and Toronto emergency plumbing assistance. This benefit is especially worth noting if you use your basement as a living space. So, do you need a sump pump? Consider contacting a sump pump specialist for more information.

Backup Sump Pumps

How does a sump pump work during a power outage? Unfortunately, they can’t. If you experience frequent power failures, you may want to consider installing a battery backup. With a battery backup, so you can rest assured that your sump pump runs even when you don’t have power.

Contact Same Day Plumbing

There are many benefits to protecting your basement with a pump. But do you need a sump pump for your home? The answer to this specific question can vary from case to case. Before installing a sump pump, contact Same Day Plumbing for professional advice. We offer services for everything from sump pump repairs to plumbing emergencies in Toronto. You can rest assured that our solutions follow best practices and pass home inspections with ease.