Sump Pump Installation: What You Need To Know

Posted on: 7 October 2020

As a homeowner with a house that has been built on unstable soil or has a basement that is below the water table or in a flood zone, you need to consider a sump pump. A sump pump is a great way to keep water from accumulating inside your basement and damaging your home. There are a few things that you need to know before you buy to help ensure a successful sump pump installation.

Think About The Water Capacity

Before you can choose the right sump pump, you need an idea of how much water you'll be dealing with. After all, if you choose a sump pump with a low per-minute flow rate, but your basement takes on water very quickly when rain is heavy, you may find that the sump pump can't keep up.

Consider the hazards that your pump will be dealing with and talk with your sump pump installer about making sure that the model you choose can keep up. The more proactive you are about selecting the right sump pump model, the better chance you'll have of being happy with your installation.

Choose The Right Installation Location

The next thing that you need to think about when you're investing in a sump pump is the location where you will have it installed. First, think about water's natural tendency to follow the path of least resistance to the lowest point in an area. Your sump pump should be installed at the lowest point of your basement floor.  

Additionally, you need to be sure that your sump pump is installed in a location with easy access to your home's power grid and an outlet for the water to drain. Sometimes that means running extra wiring or longer drain hose to that area of your basement, but it's worth it. Your perfect installation location takes all three factors into consideration.

Including Backup Power

Another important element that you need to include in your sump pump installation is access to a backup power system. You can install a generator that will provide backup power so that your sump pump activates even if a storm has triggered a power outage. 

Talk with your local sump pump installation contractor about the power needs for your unit at installation time. That way, you can be prepared with a backup power system that ensures your pump will keep working when you need it most, such as during severe storms.

With these tips, your sump pump is sure to be successful for protecting your home. For more information about choosing the correct model, location, and power source for your new sump pump, talk to a sump pump installation contractor in your area.

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