24 Nov Pros and Cons of Sump Pumps
What are the Pros and Cons of Sump Pumps?
Poor irrigation, hard soil, and a poor drainage system can lead to flooding during heavy rainfalls, around the foundation of your home. The installation of sump pumps prevents water from flooding low-lying areas such as basements and crawl spaces. As the areas fill with water, the float switch on the pump activates and starts to divert water away from the low-lying area. Before going ahead and having one installed, it is important to know the general pros and cons as well as which type of sump pump is better suited for your home.
General Pros of Sump Pumps
Here are some of the pros worth mentioning:
- Effective Water Removal
Proper installation of a sump pump is the most effective way of keeping low-lying areas such as basements and crawl spaces dry in wet conditions. Dependent on the type of pump, they can handle the removal of great volumes of water in a relatively short period. Sump pumps are capable of pumping water away from the earth beneath the foundation, preventing flooding from happening in the first place.
- Better than Waterproofing
Waterproofing the exterior of your foundation is a preventative measure against excess water entering the basement level but is not a guaranteed barrier. Cracks in the coating and foundation often occur as well as in the cement flooring or along the joints between the wall and the floor, which let water in. During times of heavy rainfall, a more aggressive system needs to be implemented.
General Cons of Sump Pumps
What are some cons you need to know?
- Electricity Supply
Sump pumps need electricity to work, which poses a problem when there are severe rainfalls and power outages. It is advisable to install one that has a battery backup system, thereby ensuring that it will carry on working when needed the most.
- Unsightly Appearance
If you want a basement area that is there for its intended function, as well as added space, then you might find sump pumps a disadvantage. Installation can leave a great big gaping hole, which by some, is seen as unsightly.
Types of Sump Pumps
What types of sump pumps can you find?
- Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps can be placed inside or outside the home, taking up little to no space as they are installed below ground. This affords homeowners a pump that doesn’t produce noise with the added benefit of water muffling any sound and keeping the motor cool. Submersible pumps are powerful and quickly remove small debris, making them ideal should you experience flooding during heavy rains. As it is completely submersed under water and below ground, it is difficult to maintain and as it produces no noise, it is hard to tell when it has stopped working.
- Pedestal Pumps
Unlike a submersible pump, pedestal pumps are installed above ground. This gives them a distinct advantage when it comes to maintenance, as they are easier to access, but it does mean that they are noisy. Unfortunately, they do not have the same power as a submersible, which means it could take longer for excess water to be pumped out. Being noisy, however, does give the distinct advantage of knowing when they have stopped working.
Finding the Pros Through Prochem
Finding a pro rather than con solution in sump pumps is why you need to contact Prochem Chemical Pump Manufacturers. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we can offer a comprehensive line of pumping solutions to handle the most demanding applications.