Totowa homeowners, especially those with basements susceptible to flooding, should strongly consider a sump pump system to protect against water intrusion and damage.
We are often asked, “How does a sump pump work in a basement?” Read on as Titanium Plumbing & Heating, a top-notch plumber in Totowa, NJ, explains how this essential flood prevention equipment works to protect your property.
What Is a Sump Pump and Why Is It Important in Totowa, NJ?
A sump pump is a device designed to keep your basement dry. It removes water accumulating in the sump pit — a basin built to collect water at your basement’s lowest point.
Totowa homes are typical of many in our part of New Jersey, with basements in areas where there is a substantial risk of water intrusion from stormwater runoff or intermittent flooding.
The sump pump channels water away from the sump pit into a properly designed water drainage system into the closest storm sewer or runoff collection point.
Sump pump systems therefore help to prevent flooding, protect foundation structures, and reduce the risk of hazardous mold and mildew growth.
Components of a Sump Pump System
How does a sump pump work in a basement? Here are the key components that make up a proper basement water removal system.
Sump Pit
A professional plumber designs sump pit installation to place the basin in the best location in your basement. Sump pits in most homes are around two feet deep and 18 inches wide. Placed at the bottom of the basement, the pit should collect any runoff or flood water that enters the basement.
Sump Pump Types
Sump pumps are typically either submersible or installed on pedestals. Sump pumps use electricity, and many modern models include battery backups in the event of power outages.
Pedestal pumps stand outside the sump pit and remain dry during operation.
The submersible pump function involves a pump positioned at the base of the sump pit and operates in standing water. This design saves space inside your basement and operates with less noise than pedestal pumps.
Float Switch
The float switch activates the pump when water in the sump pit reaches a preset level. This makes the pump operation automatic when excess water is present.
Discharge Pipe
The discharge pipe carries pumped water away from the sump pit to an outside water drainage system, typically a storm sewer.
Check Valve
This one-way valve is inside the drainage pipe and prevents backflow from the pipe into the sump pit.
How Does a Sump Pump Work in a Basement? Sump Pump Operation in Totowa, NJ
The operation of a sump pump involves the following steps:
- Water collection. As water seeps into the basement, it flows into the sump pump at the lowest point of the basement floor.
- Activation. When the water level in the sump pump reaches a preset level, the float switch activates. This automatically activates the sump pump.
- Pumping action. The sump pump uses suction to draw water out of the sump pit.
- Water removal. The pump directs water into the discharge pipe, where it flows away from the basement and home foundation to a proper water discharge point.
- Deactivation. When the water level drops below the preset level, the float switch operates to automatically deactivate the pump.
Maintenance Pointers for Totowa Homeowners
Homeowners should conduct some regular maintenance of their sump pump system, including:
- Test regularly. Before heavy rains or potential flooding, test the pump. Pour enough water into the sump pit to make sure the float switch activates and the pump works properly.
- Check the discharge line. Periodically inspect the discharge lines to make sure the system is not blocked by debris.
- Inspect the check valve. As you test the sump pump, make sure the check valve is preventing any backflow into the sump pit.
- Clean the sump pit. Debris will clog the sump pump — keep the sump pit clean.
Work With Titanium Plumbing & Heating To Protect Your Totowa Home With Flood Prevention Equipment
Now that we have discussed “How does a sump pump work in a basement?” get help installing one.
The experts at Titanium Plumbing & Heating will provide expert installation designed to work perfectly with your home’s design and construction. Count on us for professional plumbing services, heating services, and comprehensive maintenance and repair work.
Contact Titanium Plumbing & Heating to learn more about our basement water removal services or to learn more about sump pump operation.