answersLogoWhite

0

In homes across the country a damp basement is a fact of life many people live with. However, flowing water in any setting is problem that generally needs to be addressed at some point in time. While it is typical for basements and foundations to take on water during heavy rainfalls, a sump pump can prevent the water from entering through walls or even through the floor. The sump is generally a small pit that is deeper than the basement floor and operates on the premise that water seeks the lowest level. Once the sump fills up, a sump pump is used to transfer the rainwater from the basement to another area outside the confines of the house. Since the water being disposed of is usually storm run off, it can be pumped into yards or other areas without fear of contamination. However, local building codes should be consulted for any distance or draining regulations.

A sump pump is rated by horsepower. Of course, a higher horsepower dictates a more powerful pump. Home owners need to make an observation on the flow of water into the sump during the heaviest flow times. The pump should be able to clear the sump before the water overflows in the basement area. Many sump pumps are submersible and are placed directly in the tiny pool of water. They are also equipped with a float switch. This float switch turns the pump on when it rises to a certain point, and turns the pump off when it falls to an acceptable level. In storms or rain seasons it is not uncommon for a pump to run on a consistent basis. Generally a damp basement can be solved by utilizing a sump pump and a dehumidifier together to regulate the climate.

A sump pump is an extremely valuable tool to have in a house. Home owners need to be aware of the pump at all times though it will likely function for years without any attention or maintenance at all. Keeping a keen ear on the pump or checking it periodically will prevent the unit from failing when it is needed. Obviously, if the pump fails during a period when water is overflowing the sump, a major clean up will likely follow.

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?

Continue Learning about General Science

Is a dehumidifier a clue that a basement is sometimes wet?

Well, wet no. Humid, yes. There is a difference and I explain. Basically all below grade structures are prone to moisture. They are boxes of concrete or stone, buried in moist, lose soil. When it rains or snows heavily, the hydrostatic pressure generated by and over saturated soil around the foundation walls, causes the water to seep in through the porous concrete, or cracks on the wall. Clogged gutters, downspouts discharging too close to the walls, improper grading and plants that need constant watering close to the house make matters even worse. If the foundation has good drainage system in place, usually indicated by the presence of a sump pump or some other clear sign that any water pouring around the foundation is being collected and properly diverted away from it, your basement might be a bit damp but not exactly wet. That means no serious leaks or heavy seepage. Only a bit of moisture coming in due to capillary action and maybe some humidity from the air. This is the kind of moisture the dehumidifier is probably addressing and it is a great addition to a home, because it protects the home from mold and dust mites (those organisms need high humidity levels to thrive). However, the presence of a dehumidifier alone is in no way a sign that the basement is either dry or wet. To make sure, you need to check the drainage system, where and how it discharges, as well as gutters, downspouts and the grading, which should slope away from the foundation wall.


Related Questions

How can a sump pump help prevent a flooded basement?

A sump pump helps prevent a flooded basement by removing excess water that collects in a sump pit, which is typically located in the lowest part of the basement. When water levels rise, the sump pump automatically activates to pump the water out and away from the foundation of the house, reducing the risk of flooding.


How can a sump pump help prevent basement flooding?

A sump pump helps prevent basement flooding by removing excess water that collects in a sump pit, typically located in the basement. When the water level rises, the sump pump automatically turns on and pumps the water out of the pit and away from the house, reducing the risk of flooding.


What is the difference between a sump pit and a sump pump, and how do they work together to prevent basement flooding?

A sump pit is a hole in the basement floor that collects water, while a sump pump is a device that removes the water from the pit and pumps it outside. The sump pit collects water that seeps into the basement, and the sump pump prevents flooding by pumping the water away from the house. Together, they help keep the basement dry and prevent water damage.


How can I prevent basement flooding with the installation of a sump pump?

To prevent basement flooding, install a sump pump in the lowest part of your basement. The sump pump will collect excess water and pump it away from your home, reducing the risk of flooding. Regular maintenance and testing of the sump pump are also important to ensure it is working properly.


Sump Pump Installation?

form_title=Sump Pump Installation form_header=11503 What is it you need a sump pump for?*= () Water leaks through walls () Basement floods during storms () Basement floods due to rising water table () In case pipe bursts or basement drain is clogged () Other () Don't Know Does the new pump location have electricity close-by?*= () Yes () No () Don't Know


What is Sump Pump Repair and why do I need it?

You would need a sump pump repair if the sump pump in your basement is not pumping out water. The purpose of a sump pump is to drain excess water that is part of your waterproofing system.


Where does a sump pump drain water from?

A sump pump drains water from a sump pit or basin located in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace.


Does a dehumidifier or sump pump help the most to insure a waterproof basement?

You can have a dehumidifier AND a sump pump, and still have water in the basement. A dehumidifier helps decrease the humidity due to the lack of ventilation in a basement. A sump pump facilitates drainage of water, as a basement has no natural drainage. Neither prevents water from coming into the basement through the walls or the seams of the floor and walls. If you have problems with water coming into the basement, consult a professional who can advise you of the cause and explain the options to remedy the matter. Neither a dehumidifier nor a sump pump will totally insure a waterproof basement. Dehumidifiers simply remove dampness. Sump pumps do not remove damnpness but will drain off water.


What are the benefits of installing a sump pump toilet in a basement bathroom?

A sump pump toilet in a basement bathroom can help prevent flooding by efficiently removing wastewater. It can also save space and eliminate the need for traditional plumbing systems, making it a practical and convenient option for basement bathrooms.


What is the function of a sump pump with float in a basement?

A sump pump with a float in a basement is used to prevent flooding by automatically pumping out excess water that collects in a sump pit, typically located in the lowest part of the basement. The float activates the pump when the water level rises, helping to keep the basement dry and prevent water damage.


How does a freeze guard sump pump help protect against freezing temperatures in a basement or crawl space?

A freeze guard sump pump helps protect against freezing temperatures in a basement or crawl space by automatically turning on the pump when the temperature drops to a certain level. This prevents the water in the sump pump from freezing, which could lead to damage or flooding.


What are the advantages of using a shallow sump pump for basement waterproofing?

Using a shallow sump pump for basement waterproofing has advantages such as easier installation, lower maintenance costs, and better efficiency in removing water from the basement.