
What has a fun-sounding name that rhymes and a Very Important Job? Why hello there, sump pump!
Sump pumps are devices used to drain excess water. The “sump” is the basin that collects the water before the pump moves it along. They can be used in the soil beneath buildings as well as in fields from which contractors want to remove water. The application most people are familiar with, and the one we’ll focus on here, is removing excess water from a basement or, more commonly in the Charlotte area, a crawl space.
Do I Need One?
It depends. Not everyone with a basement or crawl space needs one. You’re a good candidate for a new or replacement sump pump if:
- Your basement or crawl space floods when it rains.
- You live in an area with a high water table.
- You live in a flat area (water takes the path of least resistance; if your home is the lowest spot, it’s more likely to trap water).
- Your sump pump is approaching the end of its lifespan, which is about 10 years. Be sure to get it tested every three months to avoid problems during a storm.
- You have a finished basement and want to err on the side of caution, before water damage or mold growth sets in.
What Kind Should I Get?
There are several designs and brands, but two types: pedestal and submersible. In a pedestal sump pump, the motor sits above the sump. Pedestal sump pumps are less expensive than submersibles but don’t last as long. In submersible sump pumps, the motor isn’t visible; it’s mounted inside the sump. This version is more expensive than a pedestal but more visually appealing, last longer, and is safer with children in the home.
Other Important Sump Pump Tips
A few other things to keep in mind, whether you already have a sump pump or will be getting one:
- Get a battery backup sump pump. Power outages can knock out a sump pump—the last thing you want during a storm when you’ll need it most.
- Make sure the sump pump is installed at the lowest level of the basement or crawl space. This helps ensure the water never reaches your home; it’s pushed into a storm drain or well before it gets to that point.
Expert Charlotte Sump Pump Repair and Installation
If you have questions about sump pumps or need testing on your existing one, contact us. We have been serving the Charlotte area for 20 years and work with homes and businesses within a 30-mile radius of Charlotte. Give us a call at 704-846-5371 or use our online contact form for service 24/7, 365 days a year.
Article Summary
Quick question & answer: Do I need a sump pump?
You are likely to need a new or replacement sump pump if you meet one of the following criteria:
- Your basement or crawlspace floods when it rains
- You live in an area with a high water table
- You live in a flat area
- Your current sump pump is approaching the end of its life span
- You want to be cautious