Knowledge Builders

why do some homes have sump pumps

by Macy Rempel Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Top 7 Reasons Why Every House Needs A Sump Pump

  1. Keeps The Basement Water Free. The whole purpose of sump pumps is to remove any water from the basement and keep the basement dry. ...
  2. Prevents Mold Or Mildew Growth. When the environment is soggy, wet, humid and there is stagnant water, the place will likely have mold or mildew growing.
  3. Gives Warning About The Water Level. ...
  4. Increases Property Value. ...

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A sump pump is a device that eliminates moisture and prevents flooding in a home. Typically housed in a specially constructed pit below the main surface of a basement, a sump pump collects excess water from drains and pumps it out of the pit and away from the house.May 2, 2020

Full Answer

Why should every home have a sump pump?

The equipment also provides additional benefits such as:

  • Adds to property value
  • Helps enhance the structural integrity of the home’s foundation
  • Has the ability to eliminate moisture permeating in your basement which in turn can quickly breed mold and mildew
  • Can help prevent termite and insect infestation
  • Can help hinder the rust and corrosion of metal appliances, furnishings, and structures.

Does every house have a sump pump?

Sump pumps are recommended for all homes in areas that are prone to flooding. What’s more, any home that is potentially vulnerable to flooding based on everything from local weather trends to a lot’s configuration should also have a sump pump. Most homes can benefit from basement sump pumps.

Why are sump pump needed for your home?

Why You Need A Sump Pump To Protect Your Home From Flooding Flooding can be devastating for any homeowner because it causes extensive damage to personal belongings and property. Having an efficient drainage system is necessary to ensure that your home can handle excessive water flow without causing any problems.

Why do houses have basements?

lists these benefits:

  • Provides the most stable foundation available.
  • Eliminates potential foundation issues caused by soil movement.
  • Provides safety from tornadoes and storms.
  • Houses heating/air conditioning equipment and ductwork in a cooler, more energy-efficient space than an attic.
  • Provides a secure, climate-controlled area for vaults, safes, and other valuables.

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Should you avoid buying a house with a sump pump?

Sump Pumps are a Great Tool for Your Home Investing in a sump pump can save you a fortune on potential damages. Having a home that already comes with a sump pump is even better as buying one and installing it yourself can run a few hundred dollars.

Should every house have a sump pump?

It is a myth that any home needs a sump pump and drain tile system. These systems are at best a temporary emergency fix for a problem of water leaking in the basement. They should never be relied on to pump water out of your basement continually.

Why do some houses need sump pumps?

By removing water from the pit and draining it into a nearby storm drain, dry well, or detention pond, the sump pump prevents the groundwater from rising to the level of your basement floor, which could cause a flood. In this way, you can think of a sump pump as an extra piece of flood insurance!

Are sump pumps common in homes?

If you live in an area that is prone to flooding (due to rain, snow, or even just a high water table), most houses will probably have sump pumps. This won't be a surprise to buyers. In fact, if yours is newer and properly maintained, it may even be seen as a benefit. Agents Compete, You Win.

Why do some houses have sump pumps and some don t?

If your house is built on a concrete slab (no basement) then odds are there is no sump pump. Sump pumps are designed to take water that surrounds your foundation and pump it outside before it can seep into your basement. So—no basement—no need for a sump pump.

How long do sump pumps last on average?

about 10 yearsLike other appliances and equipment in your home, your sump pump won't last forever. Averaging about 10 years, you might not notice your sump pump has malfunctioned until it has stopped working. And once it does, water damage to your home and the belongings within it can follow closely behind.

What happens if you don't have a sump pump?

Without a working sump pump, the excess water from a serious storm will begin to accumulate at the lowest point in your home. That point may be the foundation, crawlspace or basement. No matter where the water settles, it will begin to warp wood, cause rot and lead to mold growth.

How much does it cost to put a sump pump in the basement?

Sump pump costs range from $639 to $1,977, with the national average at $1,257. If you need to move water away from your home's foundation and prevent it from seeping into the basement, you need a sump pump. A sump pump is installed at the lowest point in the basement in a sump hole or pit.

Can a basement with a sump pump be finished?

The answer is that most finished basements will benefit from adding a sump pump. Installing a sump pump can be a great investment for preserving the beauty and safety of a finished basement. The bottom line is that sump pumps are recommended in finished basements that are vulnerable to moisture and flooding.

Is it hard to sell a house with a sump pump?

While real estate agents don't recommend including a sump pump in the listing, you will be expected to include it in the property condition disclosure, says Dopp. “Typically, if they've had any problems with the sump pumps, they would, by law, be supposed to disclose that as well.”

Can you get rid of a sump pump?

I would say yes you should be able to get rid of the pump if it is not needed . I have had homes with a similar setup and no pump. I would probably seal the sump so if the water starts smelling it is not stinking up the house.

Why do people put sump pumps in their basement?

Sump pumps are most commonly used when basements regularly flood, and also to solve issues associated with dampness (again, if the basement is located below the water table level).

What happens if you don't have a sump pump?

Without a working sump pump, the excess water from a serious storm will begin to accumulate at the lowest point in your home. That point may be the foundation, crawlspace or basement. No matter where the water settles, it will begin to warp wood, cause rot and lead to mold growth.

Do all houses have weeping tile?

Most modern homes are built with weeping tiles. During construction, a trench is excavated around the home's foundation. The surrounding earth will be professionally graded to ensure proper sloping. The pipe may be wrapped in a cloth or mesh material to prevent soil from entering the holes and clogging it.

How do I know if my house has a sump pump?

If you have a sump pump, it is pretty easy to identify. It will be sitting in a small pit in the basement and may or may not have a cover on it. If it does have a cover, it will be easy to move around and will usually only have one pipe coming up through the lid.

How much does a sump pump installation cost?

According to HomeAdvisor, sump pump costs range from $639 to $1,977, with the national average at $1,257. A pedestal pump costs approximately $60 to $170, while a submersible pump costs between $100 and $400. Labor can run between $45 and $200 per hour for installation.

Why Do Some Homes Have Sump Pumps and Others Don’t?

A sump pump is a device that eliminates moisture and prevents flooding in a home. Typically housed in a specially constructed pit below the main surface of a basement, a sump pump collects excess water from drains and pumps it out of the pit and away from the house.

Why is it important to know if your home has a sump pump?

Because sump pumps are stored beneath the surface level of a basement, it’s easy to overlook them when first touring a house. But it’s important to know whether your home has a sump pump so you can be prepared in case of Sioux Falls flooding emergencies.

Does my house need a sump pump?

If you’re wondering whether your home needs a sump pump, it probably does. The American Society of Home Inspectors estimates that more than 60% of homeowners have some sort of moisture in their basement or crawl spaces.

Is it okay to have sump pumps in Sioux Falls?

It’s okay— sump pumps in Sioux Falls are a surprisingly mysterious subject. At INTEK, we get asked about sump pumps all the time.

Is it a good idea to have a sump pump?

If you’re located in a city like Sioux Falls or Yankton that can be prone to heavy rains (especially during the spring), it’s a good idea to have a sump pump for potential flooding. Sump pumps are particularly helpful for those who live in low areas, like at the bottom of a hill.

Why do cities have sump pumps?

This is because cities protect their drain system from being overloaded. So you have to have a sump pump discharge and dump all this water on the Earth outside of the house. There are also rules, regulations, and recommendation regarding the sump pump discharge, but most of them are common sense. 1.

How to stop a sump pump from freezing?

1. Do not allow water from your sump pump to drain on or around public sidewalks, lanes, streets. They can freeze and become a hazard. 2. Do not discharge water onto your neighbour’s property. 3. Do direct water to your lawn or garden. Move the discharge pipe around so that some areas don’t get overwatered. The problem with many new homes is that ...

What is the best way to protect your basement from rain?

Backwater valve is another great device to protect you from this situation. Note, however, that in a very heavy rain your backwater valve may not sustain the water pressure and break, with all the sewage flowing into your basement with water. That’s when sump pump comes handy.

Where should sump pump pits be?

You sump pump pit should be the place to collect all water from the house and around the house that is not drained through the normal drain system.

Do you need a sump pump in Toronto?

As you can see, sump pumps are requires in new Toronto homes.

Do you need a sump pump when buying a house?

Whether you are building a new house or buying a home in the new subdivision, it’s very likely that you will have to install a sump pump.

Does Toronto have a sump pump rebate?

City of Toronto offers generous rebates to the homeowners who decide to install a sump pump. Check out our plumbing rates - and consider that most of the cost will be reimbursed by the city. Before you spend thousands of dollars, give us a call at 647-287-9589.

Why do you need a sump pump?

By removing water from the pit and draining it into a nearby storm drain, dry well, or detention pond, the sump pump prevents the groundwater from rising to the level of your basement floor, which could cause a flood. In this way, you can think of a sump pump as an extra piece of flood insurance!

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a submersible device installed in a sump pit dug at the lowest point of your house, such as the basement or crawl space. This small but important addition to your home helps prevent your basement from flooding.

What happens when it rains on a sump pump?

When it begins to rain heavily, the soil around your house becomes oversaturated. Excess groundwater funnels toward the sump pit, and it begins to fill with water. This activates the sump pump float switch and turns on the pump.

How to contact Len the Plumber?

Contact Len The Plumber at (800) 950-4619. (800 ) 950-4619. to speak with a qualified plumber about installing a sump pump in MD, DC, VA, PA, or DE.

What happens when a house is built on a flood prone plot?

Your home is built on a flood-prone plot. Poorly draining soil, low-lying properties, and homes surrounded by hills are more likely to experience rising groundwater levels during heavy rains, snowstorms, and spring runoff.

Is a sump pump a good investment?

A sump pump is a small investment with big advantages. Here’s how you can benefit from adding a sump pump to your home:

Can a plumbing expert install a sump pump?

If you have decided a sump pump is right for your Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, Delaware, or Philadelphia home, it’s vital to have the device installed and serviced by a plumbing expert. Len The Plumber can meet your needs! We offer upfront, written estimates and a no-surprises-pricing policy, giving you the confidence to move forward with your project. Rest assured that our fully trained, licensed, and certified professionals will guide you through the sump pump installation process so you know exactly what to expect.

What is the purpose of sump pump?

The purpose of the sump pump is to collect rainwater which falls against and around the home, and discharge it to a place where it will do no damage to the foundation/footings of the home.

Where is the sump pump located?

So just because you don’t see it outside doesn’t mean it is not there. Once in a very great while the sump pump is found in a pit outside the home. Usually that pit is pretty deep. The discharge pipe from the pit is usually buried and goes to a lower point on the property where it lets the water flow out of an open end.

What if you find the pit but it has two pipes coming out of it instead of just one?

That could indicate several differing scenarios. It could simply be that you have an extra pump (like a back-up pump designed to kick in if the first pump fails or if the power goes out).

What is a utility pump?

The utility pump is designed to pump grey water wastes (without solids) like washing machine water and air conditioners condensate and humidifiers overflow.

What is the phone number for a sump pump?

We’re open 24/7. We’ll be happy to help out! CALL NOW: 855-254-3434. This article was posted in Information.

Where to find a discharge line for a sump pump?

If you find one, that may be a sump pump discharge line. These are usually (not always) directly above the location of your sump pump. If you find a suspected discharge pipe, you can go to the basement or crawlspace directly below the pipe to see if the pump is there.

Why do sewer pits have to be sealed?

That pit has to be sealed and vented because it carries sewage, and sewer gas is harmful to humans and pets. These 2 pipes will usually be 1-1/2 inches inside diameter.

How long do sump pumps last?

Just like any device in your home, you need to maintain sump pumps properly to make them last longer. Submersible sump pumps can last for up to 15 years as long as they’re maintained properly. Pedestal sump pumps can last even longer, up to 25 years, if given regular maintenance.

What to do if your sump pump goes out?

During a storm, severe winds and lightning can knock out your power lines. To avoid your sump pump from shutting down, you should invest in a battery backup system. That way, if your electricity goes out, your battery backup can power your sump pump and prevent flooding.

What is the difference between a pedestal and a submersible sump pump?

However, they are more expensive and don’t have as long of a lifespan. On the other hand, pedestal sump pumps are cheaper to buy but are much noisier. Submersible pumps are usually installed in the basement of your home and take longer to operate than pedestal sump pumps.

Why does my sump pump freeze?

Just like water lines, sump pump lines can freeze if temperatures drop too low. However, this usually only happens if your sump pump lines aren’t buried at the right depth. Before moving in, we suggest contacting the property owner and making sure the sump pump was installed correctly to avoid lines freezing during the winter.

Where do you put a sump pump?

A sump pump is usually installed in the basement of your home and is used to “pump” water out of your house and into another area, such as a storm drain. Often, they’re installed under the floor of your basement, although “pedestal pumps” do sit above your sump basin.

Does a sump pump work in a new home?

Just because a sump pump is already in your new home doesn’t necessarily mean it works. Make sure to test the sump pump before you sign your buyer’s agreement. You may notice certain parts of the pump not working as they should, in which case you should get it replaced and/or repaired, as if it causes any leaks or severe water damage in your new home, you may find yourself looking to services like Ultimate Restoration Charlotte based to help with cleaning up. Ask your real estate specialist if you can factor that cost into your buyer’s agreement.

Can a sump pump stop water?

Although sump pumps can stop most of the water, holes in the structure of your home can cause leaks and lasting damage. So, even if you have a sump pump installed in your new place, it’s important to keep an eye out for this kind of damage.

Why do we need a sump pump?

The location of the house is what matters the most. If the house is on a low point or a location where water pools, a sump pump is needed. Gravity makes water move downwards, so low points are affected the most. Usually, whole neighborhoods are affected by pooling water, so you will find a sump pump in every home in that neighborhood.

How does a sump pump work?

A common misconception is that there is something wrong with the house itself. Sump pumps collect pooling water under the foundation of the house. Then, the collected water is moved to a safe spot through a discharge line.

How much does it cost to have a sump pump?

Understandably so, the biggest concern for every homeowner is the cost that comes with a sump pump. You’ve just spent money on the house you wanted and now you’ll have to pay more for an appliance.

What is a sump pump combo?

You may want to consider some sump pump combo models. It’s a sump pump system consisting of a main pump and a battery backup pump.

How long does a sump pump last?

The average sump pump lasts 2-4 years with proper maintenance. A good model can last as long as 10 years with regular maintenance. Average models have a prince range of 60$-150$, better ones go from 200$ to 400$. As you can see, you can find a decent model for a decent amount of money.

What is battery backup sump pump?

A battery backup sump pump is a secondary pump that’s installed slightly above the main pump. It is automatically activated by a float switch when the main pump can’t handle the water alone, when the power goes out, or when the main pump fails.

What can go wrong with a sump pump?

Many things can go wrong with a sump pump. The pump may fail to start, the float switch may be faulty, and power may go out. So, all these situations require you to be present in the house. What happens if something goes wrong when you’re not home?

Why do you need a sump pump for a basement?

It Saves Money. Repairing a flooded basement can turn into an expensive project. A properly operating sump pump keeps drenching rains and rising water tables from flooding the downstairs and turning the basement into a disaster zone. 2.

When does a sump pump go to work?

When a severe storm or melting snow raises the water table around your home , the sump pump automatically goes to work. Unlike passive trench systems or French drains, the sump pump immediately reacts to the threat and starts moving water away from the basement.

How do sump pumps help in Chicago?

Both factors contribute to basement flooding in Chicago homes. Sump pumps help control water damage downstairs. The pump sits in a small basin below the floor with pipes leading to the outside. When water seeps into the basement, it triggers the pump’s float switch and activates its motor.

How long do sump pumps last?

Most quality sump pumps perform well for about 10 years. Ask the seller about the current pump’s age, and get information about its manufacturer and installer too. This can give you a good idea of how soon you might be out of pocket replacing the sump pump.

What happens if a basement floods?

Basement flooding can result in structural damage to the foundation and framing, so alert your home inspector to your concerns. He or she should be able to detect previous water damage to the house. 2. Pumps Need Electricity.

Can a sump pump work in a storm?

If the power goes out during a storm, the sump pump won’t work , and that leaves your new basement vulnerable to flooding. However, most battery backup pump systems are affordable and easy to install.

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1.Why Do Houses Have Sump Pumps? - Invisible Excavations

Url:https://invisibleexcavations.com/why-houses-have-sump-pumps/

21 hours ago They’re Avoiding Mold & Other Health Risks. Sump pumps not only protect finished basements from flooding, but also from much smaller amounts of moisture that can cause mold growth. Mold grows in places with lots of moisture, meaning it can grow especially well near leaks and areas where flooding has occurred.

2.Do All Houses Have Sump Pumps? - INTEK Cleaning

Url:https://intekclean.com/2020/05/02/houses-sump-pumps/

16 hours ago  · A sump pump is a device that eliminates moisture and prevents flooding in a home. Typically housed in a specially constructed pit below the main surface of a basement, a sump pump collects excess water from drains and pumps it …

3.Why New Houses Need A Sump Pump? - A TO Z Plumbing

Url:https://www.a-to-zplumbing.com/why-new-houses-need-sump-pump.html

33 hours ago Sump pumps are necessary for proper drainage of water from the basement during heavy storms or flooding. They help keep water out of your home by pumping it away and preventing it from overflowing your basement walls. Do you need a sump pump in your crawl space? Sump pumps are not necessary for most homes with a crawl space.

4.What's a Sump Pump and Why Do I Need One? | Len The …

Url:https://lentheplumber.com/blog/whats-a-sump-pump-and-why-do-i-need-one

7 hours ago In the new home you build yourself, it is yours.. Sump pump may be required in the new home for several reasons all related to the basement flooding potential in your area. 1. High water table. a. You are getting a house in the ravine, where water table is high. 2. Heavy rainstorms.

5.Do All Houses Have Sump Pumps? - Yes! Plumbing

Url:https://www.yesplumbing.net/do-all-houses-have-sump-pumps/

6 hours ago A sump pump is a submersible device installed in a sump pit dug at the lowest point of your house, such as the basement or crawl space. This small but important addition to your home helps prevent your basement from flooding.

6.Buying a Home with a Sump Pump? | 10 Things You Need …

Url:https://www.homesforheroes.com/blog/bpo-buying-home-sump-pump-10-things-need-know/

12 hours ago  · Sump pumps are designed to take water that surrounds your foundation and pump it outside before it can seep into your basement. So—no basement—no need for a sump pump. A sump pump will usually be in a pre-formed pit made of fiberglass or clay (we’ve seen them in a plain hole in the floor too!).

7.Should You Avoid Buying A House With A Sump Pump?

Url:https://combatwaterdamage.com/should-you-avoid-buying-a-house-with-a-sump-pump/

26 hours ago  · 1. What Does a Sump Pump Do? A sump pump is usually installed in the basement of your home and is used to “pump” water out of your house and into another area, such as a storm drain. Often, they’re installed under the floor of your basement, although “pedestal pumps” do sit above your sump basin. Sump pumps are especially beneficial to those who live in areas …

8.Why would a house have two sump pumps? - Quora

Url:https://www.quora.com/Why-would-a-house-have-two-sump-pumps

8 hours ago  · Gravity makes water move downwards, so low points are affected the most. Usually, whole neighborhoods are affected by pooling water, so you will find a sump pump in every home in that neighborhood. The three rules of real estate are: location, location, location! But that makes things complicated in this situation.

9.Buying a House With a Sump Pump: 8 Things You Need …

Url:https://www.servicemasterbyzaba.com/blog/buying-a-house-with-a-sump-pump/

20 hours ago WHY DO YOU NEED A SUMP PUMP IN YOUR BASEMENT? During heavy rains and wet weather, water can pool around your foundation and basement. If your foundation is not completely waterproofed, your basement could be at risk of flooding. To help reduce the risk of basement flooding, many owners choose to install sump pumps in their basement and/or crawlspaces.

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