Some Tips on Choosing the Best Sump Pump for your Needs
Choices that influence your life and that of the people you love are the hardest to make. And, even though it may not seem like it at first, sump pumps have the ability of changing one’s live, as they can be your only helping hand in case of flooding. Their importance goes from protecting one’s home against excessive humidity and limescale to saving hundreds or thousands of dollars as potential flooding damages.
Of course, before you can make a choice, you need to know the basics.
Basic Facts about Sump Pumps:
There are two major types of sump pumps: pedestal (above ground) and submersible. Their power usually varies between 1/4 and 1 horsepower.
The pedestal pumps have their motors mounted on a shaft outside the sump basin. The vertical design is meant to allow floating and adjustment for specific on/off points. These pumps are ideal for sump pits of 10 inches or less. They are economical, able to operate between 5 and 15 years, but they require positioning in such a way as to avoid the submerging or the motor.
The submersible pumps on the other hand have their motor sealed in the sump basin, allowing them to be installed underwater. They are quieter and safer – thus more appropriate for families with children; they are perfect for installment in finished basements and are able to operate up to 25 – 30 years.
Both types of sump pumps have 6 major components:
- A system that collects excessive groundwater and discharges it into a sump basin.
- The sump basin that stores the water before removal.
- The primary pump, of the above types and power, is the one that actually pumps the water and guides it to the collection system.
- A discharge system consisting of a pipe or a hose that carries water away from the house.
- A check valve that prevents discharge outlet backflow, making sure that the water discharged from the basin does not get back in.
- Optional backup sump pump – Can turn out quite useful in case of power outages or primary pump failure.
Aspects to Consider When Choosing a Sump Pump:
Backup sump pump powering and alert system
Backup sump pumps can be powered by batteries or by municipal water pressure. They are connected to the primary pump and they turn on when the latter fails. It is important that they have a light or sound alert system, so that you will be alerted in case anything goes wrong.
Although sump pumps powered by municipal water pressure are designed to work with limited water quantities, they can make an excellent choice for a small household or one placed in an area where heavy rainfall is not part of the ordinary.
Switch
- Capacitive switches measure the water level with the help of a microprocessor and start the pump when the level of the water in the sump basin reaches a predetermined point. The good thing about them is that they have no mechanical parts that could wear out.
- Vertical switches are devices that travel vertically in the sump basin and turn the pump on when the water reaches a certain level. They are mechanical and they cannot be adjusted. It is very important that the switch be installed in a 90 degrees angle with the incoming liquid.
- Diaphragm switches turn the pump on and off based on the water pressure levels.
Materials
Since sump pumps are used in moist environments and even under water (submersible), it is very important that their parts be made of corrosion and water proof materials, such as stainless steel, bronze, or epoxy-coated cast irons. This way you can be sure that your pump will be safe and ready to use for years to come.
Capacity
You will find it measured in gallons/minute or gallons/hour. Keep in mind the height to which water should be lifted for removal, also known as head pressure and make sure the pump you buy has the power to lift water to that level. The general minimum lift is 10′.
Producer/Manufacturer
Sump pumps are devices you buy for long term use. Their price is not exactly affordable and, should anything go wrong, it is very important that you find spare parts, repair services or someone to turn to for warranty.
Besides, you know that this market niche, just like all the others, is stuffed with low quality products built on ships or third world illegal factories and sold under fake labels. It is therefore important to make sure you know who you are working with. Customer reviews can prove quite helpful in this regard, so read a few before deciding on a specific model.
Installation
Most sump pumps can be installed by the owner, requiring no special tools or skills. Click here to read tips on how to fit a sump pump. To make sure you succeed, read the installation guide before you begin and keep it somewhere close, just in case you need further instructions. Make sure your existing wiring is enough to support the pump or ask for an electrician’s advice if improvements are required.
Turn power off whenever you are working on your sump pump, whether for installation of repairs. Don’t use an extension cord. Have your sump pump installed on an outlet that is GFCI protected. Get information about local code water discharge regulations, to avoid any fines or later penalties.
Word of advice: When looking for the best sump pump, make sure it complies with SSPMA (Sump and Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association) standards.
All in all, the choice should not be that hard. Don’t rush into buying anything, ask any questions that cross your mind and compare. It will be a little difficult at first, but there is no doubt that, after reviewing a couple of models, you’ll get the hand of it.
And remember that the online market can be full of surprises. Online retailers are not paying rent or sales personnel and they often organize sales promotions, giving significant discounts or benefits, so you should be able to find some incredible offers.
We find it is best to research real user sump pump reviews, as well as keep your eyes open and trust your instincts, and you will certainly find the best sump pump out there!
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