With the heavy rains we experienced early this summer, area homeowners and businesses were appreciative of having working sump pumps, as the pumps have been tested. For most people, they don’t think about their sump pump as long as it is working properly. With that in mind, we want to address why it is necessary to have protection.

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, more than 60% of American homes have some type of moisture in their basements or crawlspaces. This can cause unpleasant mold, mildew, and fungus in the home, creating a possible health issues for those that reside there. As we live in a region that receives significant amounts of snow and rainfall, a sump pump is an integral part of any home with a basement or crawlspace.

Installed at the basement floor’s lowest elevation, a sump pump is designed to manually remove water collected from the drain tile and potentially surrounding ground water. It is typically encased in a dedicated sump pit known as a sump crock or basin. Most have a mechanized flotation system that causes the pump to turn on and pump down the water to a safe level. The sump pump directs the water outside and away from the structure’s foundation through a discharge pipe. A check valve between the pump and the pipe keeps the water from back flowing into the house.

There are two general styles of sump pumps – a pedestal pump, where the motor is raised above the sump pit, and a submersible pump, which is wholly located below the basin cover. As a sump pump runs on electricity, and is mechanical equipment, it is highly recommended that you have a battery backup in the event you lose power or the pump reaches the end of its life cycle. At the very least, every sump system should at least include an alarm to notify you of rising water.

A good summary of potential benefits from sump pump systems include…

• a dryer, more comfortable basement throughout the year.
• advising a homeowner when the water level gets too high.
• stabilizing the soil around the structure’s foundation.
• safeguarding wall coverings and paint against flaking.
• protecting metal appliances (furnace, water heater, washer, dryer, freezers, etc.).
• raising a home’s property value.
• providing homeowners with peace of mind regardless of weather conditions.

When it comes to maintaining a sump pump, it is suggested that the system be tested at least every other month by pouring water into the pump to confirm it starts and moves water.

For additional information on sump pumps, the team at JMI Pump Systems is ready to help. Please contact us at 800-234-5490 or sales@jmipumps.com.