As part of flood protection, your basement or crawl space contractor may recommend that you install a sump pump. There are many types and designs in the waterproofing market. From the submersible pumps to battery-powered ones, there are options for different needs and budgets.
1. Primary Sump Pumps
They are a common fixture in many homes and are designed to eject water out of the basement or crawl space before it causes flooding. These pumps can be submersible or pedestal and require electricity to operate.
The pedestal type is an upstanding pump with an impeller at the base. It’s usually installed above ground and isn’t supposed to get wet. The good thing about it is that it costs less than the submersible pump. Because its motor is above water, it’s also easy to repair or service. On the flip side, the exposed motor makes this pump noisy. It’s also likely to overheat and become a safety risk. The open nature of the sump pit also allows any water inside to evaporate back into the basement or crawl space or lead to flooding if there is a malfunction. Debris and other objects also can easily fall inside and cause damage.
A submersible sump pump goes into the sump pit and is designed to remove water while below the floor level. It’s quieter than the pedestal pump. Because its motor sits in the sump basin, it’s less obstructive and safer in homes with kids. We recommend this for your finished basement. The only drawback to this pump is that it can be an expensive initial investment, but well worth it for the continued protection of your home.
When looking for a basement sump pump or one for the crawl space, choose a model that’s rust-free and has an airtight cover and built-in alarm.
2. Battery Backup Sump Pumps
If water rises fast in the sump pit and the primary pump breaks down or a storm knocks out the power, a battery-backup pump will kick in automatically and pump out the water that gets into your basement or crawl space. It will also take over pumping duties if the water levels inside the basement or crawl space exceed the capacity of the primary pump.
A good backup pump can eject thousands of gallons of water on a single charge, providing the ultimate protection until power is restored or the faulty primary pump is repaired. We strongly recommend this as a second line of defense, as you never know what the weather could throw your way.
The battery-powered pump needs recharging and can die during a prolonged power outage. Nevertheless, it remains a necessity especially in areas where storms are common.
3. Combination Sump Pump Systems
As the name suggests, this type combines either the pedestal or the submersible pipe with a battery backup pump. Some systems combine three submersible pumps and battery-powered pumps in one sump basin. The resulting sump pump system offers advanced protection against basement floods.
Sump Pump Installation
Sump pump installation isn’t your typical DIY job. And no amount of online guides or videos can prepare you for the rigors of the job. Everything needs to be done with pinpoint accuracy. One small mistake and you could be staring at a potential water disaster. So, it’s best to leave it to professionals with industry experience and knowledge. They’ll install your sump pump properly and ensure it works as it’s intended to.
Your local basement and crawl space waterproofing experts offer a variety of durable and effective sump pumps, including submersible pumps and batted-powered backup pumps. Our top choice is the SafeDri™ Sump Pump System, an industry-leading pump with an enviable performance record. We can customize it for your basement or crawl space needs, and your pump comes with a solid warranty for your peace of mind.
Protect Your Basement or Crawl Space
Want to install a sump pump system in your basement or crawl space or find out the best sump pump for your home? Contact the basement waterproofing professionals in your area to schedule a free inspection and quote. Our experts will give you a walkthrough of different options and recommend the right pump for your situation.