A sump pump is a device used to remove ground water from underneath your home. Let’s take a look at how it works.
A sump pump is usually installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace. Its job is to continually keep the area under the building dry and to prevent it from flooding.
Water from drain tiles around the foundation of the home collects in the sump pit. When water reaches a certain level in the pit, the pump automatically turns on and pushes the water away from your home. As the water leaves the pit, a check valve blocks the water from returning, leaving it only one way to escape.
Sump pumps are usually installed in new homes during construction. If your existing home doesn’t have one, it can still be installed by a licensed plumber.
Its good practice to check the functioning of your sump pump at least twice per year. A simple and easy way to make sure your sump pump is working properly is to pour a bucket of water into the pit to make sure the pump engages and sends the water out.
