What Exactly Is a Sump Pump?
Basements are a great place to entertain, and for homeowners that have a finished basement, there is a good chance they put quite a bit of money into it. Whether it be from the carpet, the entertainment center, or furniture, they probably don’t want anything to get destroyed.
Unfortunately, basements are prone to flooding, which is why many homeowners invest in a sump pump. These can prevent damage as they pump water out and away from the foundation. This helps the area under the house dry after a storm so that the excess moisture doesn’t find its way into the basement or other living areas.
3 Main Signs Homeowners Might Need a Sump Pump
- They’ve experienced a flood in the basement before: Unfortunately, if they’ve experienced one, there’s a good chance there will experience another. A sump pump can help eliminate the chance of multiple floods!
- They live in a climate that experiences a lot of rain or snow: With more storms comes a higher risk of flood. After a heavy rain or snowstorm, homeowners should take a look at their basement for any freestanding water. Make sure to check crawl spaces as tiny hidden leaks may turn into large floods in the future.
- They live in a flat or low-lying area: For those that live in an area with hills or mountains grading down towards their home, this may be a sign they should get a sump pump. Flowing water will find its way to their basement if it’s the lowest point.
Sump Pump Options
For homeowners convinced that a sump pump may be a good choice for their home, there are a couple of options to choose from, including:
- Pedestal: A Pedestal sump pump is more economical, but it doesn’t tend to last as long as a Submersible sump pump. Pedestal sump pumps have the motor located above the sump, which is less appealing, but also much easier to service.
- Submersible: A Submersible sump pump is more expensive but lasts a bit longer. The motor from this pump is sealed inside the sump. This makes for a safer and nicer looking option, but it is harder to access for service.
How To Choose the Best Sump Pump
Choosing the right sump pump comes down to personal preference. For homeowners willing to spend a little extra money, the Submersible pump may be the better option - especially if they have children because it is completely hidden. However, a pedestal sump pump can also do a great job at protecting valuables in the basement, but they may find themselves replacing the sump pump more frequently.
When in doubt, it is best to contact a professional to see which option would work best!
About Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning
Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning has been serving Sun Prairie, WI, and the surrounding area for over 35 years. For all plumbing, heating, AC, and electrical needs, call Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning for professional, fast, and clean work.
