The Purpose of a Sump Pump

A sump pump is device that prevents flooding or intrusive water damage to a home. It collects groundwater that builds up around its foundation, then transports the water through a discharge line away from the home.

To install a sump pump, a hole, called a sump pit, is dug into the ground in the lowest part of a basement or crawl space. If there is a cement floor, a concrete saw is used to cut an outline in the floor and then a jackhammer is used to break and remove the concrete so the pit can be dug. The hole is approximately 30 inches deep and 20 inches wide, depending on the type of system being installed. If a crawl space encapsulation is being installed, the clean space liner is made to fit around the top of the sump pump.

The Sump Pump is placed in the sump pit, and the discharge pipe is connected. The discharge pipe leads to the exterior of the home, then down into the ground where it extends 15 feet or more away from the home. The water collected by the sump pump flows through the pipe to a drainage area located downhill, if possible.

Sump pumps are a great solution for homes that have excess water in their basement or crawlspace or are prone to flooding. Having one can even lessen the chances of cracking or shifting in the foundation. When the soil is saturated with water, it creates a force called hydrostatic pressure that pushes against the home. Eliminating the water prevents soil erosion and relives the pressure placed on the walls and floors.

Another reason water is harmful to a crawl space is because the moist environment is a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and a decaying fungus called wood rot. The fungus can decay the wooden joists that support the home, causing an unstable foundation, sinking floors, and other damages.

We provide 3 different sump pump options carefully designed to address varying levels of water intrusion. The Triple Safe Sump Pump System, SuperSump Premier Sump Pump System, and the SmartSump Crawl Space Sump Pump System. 

Sump pumps require electricity, meaning they often stop working when power goes out. UltraSump® Battery Backup System will engage if there is a power outage and can pump out 11,500 gallons or more on a single charge.  The UltraSump Battery Backup System is included in the installment of a TripleSafe Sytem, or it is an additional option for the SmartSump and SuperSump Sytem.

Overall, it is extremely beneficial to keep water out of the basement or crawl space, or else there could be severe damage to the home that can be costly to repair.

If your crawlspace or basement has standing water, investing in a sump pump can keep the home safe, healthy, and retain its value. Learn more about our Sump Pump systems, and which one may be the best option to protect your home.