Should I install a sump pump in my basement?

Many homeowners’ basements will flood at some point. Even if your basement doesn’t flood, basement moisture can lead to mold and potential health problems. If you own a home and live in an area susceptible to excessive snow or rainfall, a sump pump is a smart bet.

Why does my basement have two sump pits?

Multiple pits with pumps are most often used (1) when more than one sump pump is needed and they don;t all fit in one pit, and (2) when the house is large enough that despite proper operation of a sump pump, water still seeps up onto the floor on the opposite side of the basement.

Will a sump pump keep basement dry?

It is designed to collect water that flows to it from drains or the soil around the home. The sump pump then pumps that water away from the home in order to keep the basement or crawlspace dry.

Will sump pump keep basement dry?

Should a sump pit be dry?

Having a routinely dry sump pit can be just as harmful to your pump as having an overwhelming, continuous flow of water. When a sump pit remains dry for extended periods of time, seals can dry out and crack. The inner workings of the pump can also seize up.

How many sump pits do I need?

With properly installed and properly operating perforated drain pipes around the perimeter of the basement the water will go around the corners perfectly well. Normally one pit is good enough but if you have a backup pump and they both don’t fit in the pit then putting the backup pump in a separate pit may work out.

Why is there gravel in sump pit?

The gravel was used to bring a slightly over-excavated floor back to grade. Because water seeks the path of least resistance and will migrate sideways before it moves up, moisture beneath the floor will move through the layer of gravel to a sump pit before flooding the floor.

Why is there no water in my sump pit?

No water in the sump pump is a classic sign of an improperly installed pump or a pump that is not linked to a drainage system. Sumps and Drainage Go Hand-in-Hand. If the drain tile is clogged, collapsed, not installed with the proper pitch or non-existent, it will not be able to divert the water correctly.

What sump pump is best for a basement?

This Wayne sump pump is considered by many owners to be the best sump pump for basement use because of its simplicity of operation, easy maintenance and durability. With half a horsepower, it has plenty of juice pushing water upward 20 feet or more.

Installing a sump pump can be an effective way to keep water from accumulating in a basement. The pump is set in a basin, or a sump pit, located at the lowest spot in the basement floor or where water first accumulates. Sump basins, which can be purchased at home centers, are most often made of plastic or fiberglass.

What is the average cost to install a sump pump?

A sump pump with a built-in backup pump can be $300-$500 , and heavy-duty solid-brass sump pumps start around $250-$350, but can go as high as $600-$1,200 for extremely rugged models with a half to a full horse power. Average total costs for a do-it-yourself installation of basin, pump, gravel and cement can run $150-$350 .

How do I install a backup sump pump?

How to Install a Backup Sump Pump Step 1 – Choose Your Preferred Pump Type Step 2 – Connect Your Pump Step 3 – Connect Your Pump Suction Pipe Step 4 – Connect Your Discharge Pipe Step 5 – Test Your Pump