How Does a Sump Pump Work in Hurricane, UT?

When it comes to preventing basement flooding, plumbers often recommend installing a sump pump. These devices help keep rainwater and sewage out of your home’s most vulnerable spaces so you can avoid extensive water damage. Exactly how does a sump pump work?

This guide offers key information for anyone debating installing a sump pump. Iron Mountain Plumbers specializes in sump pump repair services in Hurricane, UT, and shares everything you need to know about basic sump pump components as well as the varieties available. Find out why countless homeowners in Hurricane and the surrounding areas rely on this plumbing fixture for staying dry. 

Understanding Sump Pumps: Their Purpose and Setup

Before we dive into how sump pumps work, it’s important to understand these systems and their basic purpose. A sump pump is a plumbing device that homeowners often install below the floor of their basement or crawl spaces to keep water from filling that part of the house. Experts dig a trench or hole to serve as the sump pit mechanism that the pump will sit in. 

Once the pump detects water filling inside the pit, it will automatically begin extracting it. The groundwater will travel through an intricate pipe system that leads to a drainage area outside your home. This ultimately prevents water from damaging your basement or other part of your home susceptible to flooding. 

If you frequently endure basement flooding in Hurricane, Utah, consider investing in a sump pump. It’s one of the most effective and affordable flood prevention systems and makes basement water removal seamless and stress-free. You can choose from several different varieties and work with a licensed plumber to find the best option for you.  

Common Types of Sump Pumps Hurricane Homeowners Can Install

How does a sump pump work? The basic function of a sump pump is to extract groundwater before it’s able to enter your home, though the specific process depends on the type of pump you install in your home. Check out the six types of sump pumps that contractors like Iron Mountain Plumbing install. 

1. Pedestal Pumps

If you install a pedestal sump pump in your home, the pump itself will sit inside the pit but an electric motor will appear above the pit. This design protects the motor from water damage and therefore makes it easier to repair or service the equipment even if the pit contains groundwater. You’ll save money by opting for this budget-friendly style of sump pump but may have to contend with loud noises whenever it operates. 

2. Submersible Pumps

Your sump pump’s motor will be in the pit when you install a submersible-style pump. These mechanisms feature a protective seal that allows the motor to work even when exposed to water. They’re ideal if your basement or crawlspace takes on large amounts of water after heavy rains thanks to their impressive pumping capabilities. 

To compensate for the high-quality submersible pump function, you can expect these fixtures to cost more to install and maintain. 

3. Battery Backup Sump Pumps

Sump pumps require electricity to extract water from the sump pit through drainage pipes. This begs the question: how does a sump pump work if you lose power? Combat interior flooding with a battery backup pump. 

This small, battery-powered device will automatically extract water when your main pump fails due to a power outage or mechanical problem. They are available as both pedestal and submersible pumps. 

4. Combination Pumps

Instead of installing a separate backup pump, you can have the best of both worlds by opting for a combination sump pump. This device will serve as your main sump pump but comes with additional battery-powered equipment to prevent flooding even during a power outage. 

5. Effluent Pumps

Some homeowners in Hurricane don’t always have pure rainwater enter their basements. That’s when an effluent sump pump comes in handy. It features the same power as a submersible pump but helps to extract small debris found in the sump pit, including:

• Pebbles
• Sewage
• Laundry water

Experts recommend this type of pump for those with septic systems that may bring gray water back into the home via the ground. 

6. Water-Powered Pumps

Make your home eco-friendly with a water-powered sump pump. The force of Hurricane’s municipal water supply creates a suction that facilitates groundwater control and extraction inside the sump pit. However, water-powered pumps work best as a backup device rather than a primary sump pump.  

The Four Basic Steps of Sump Pump Operation

If you’re wondering, “How does a sump pump work?” we’ve got your answer. Below is a breakdown of the water extraction process that helps keep basements throughout Hurricane and the surrounding areas dry. 

1. Groundwater Enters the Sump Pit

Unlike a toilet or sink faucet, you can’t turn a sump pump on or off at any given time. This plumbing device will only begin working when enough water enters the pump pit. The water level inside the pit must bring the float switch to a certain height for the pump to automatically start working.  

2. The Pump’s Motor Creates a Vacuum

Say you have a submersible sump pump in your home. It will kick on once the water reaches a certain level and trigger the motor’s impeller, which operates similarly to a fan to create a low-pressure area. The movement from the impeller serves as a vacuum that sucks up water inside the pit and moves it through a discharge line. 

3. Water Exits Your Home Via Discharge Lines

Plumbers won’t only need to dig a sump pit and install the pump but they’ll also have to equip your home with discharge lines. These are pipes that extend from either your home’s foundation or siding to a suitable drainage area of your yard. The sump pump will draw water from inside the pit through the discharge line, which carries the liquid away from the foundation. 

The main purpose of the discharge line is to prevent water from damaging your basement and foundation, but plumbers can’t lead these lines anywhere. Discharge pipe installation depends on the following factors:

• The slope and grade of your yard
• Nearby vegetation and landscaping
• Local codes and regulations for drainage systems
• Proximity to roads or other infrastructure

The discharge line will typically run underground and therefore requires a trench in its path. 

4. A Check Valve Triggers and Water Extraction Stops

How does a sump pump work after the pit empties? The motor will continuously run until the float switch lowers back down to a reasonable level. Once the pit is free of groundwater, the motor will stop and a check valve at the base of the discharge pipe keeps extracted water from flowing back into the pit. 

You don’t have to do anything but monitor the process and ensure that no water enters your basement or crawlspace. If it does, contact a licensed plumber like Iron Mountain Plumbing. A professional should inspect your sump pump for malfunctions and perform basic maintenance or repairs. 

Factors To Consider Before Installing a Sump Pump

Now that you know how sump pumps work, you might decide to install one to protect your home from flood damage. Waterproofing a basement or crawlspace with a sump pump can be a worthwhile investment but you have to consider a few key factors before installation, including:

• Ideal pump capacity: If you experience intense basement flooding frequently, you’ll need a pump that can extract several gallons of water per hour. A less powerful pump can suit any occasional flooding. 
• Installation and operating costs: Keep in mind that some systems have higher upfront costs but may save you money in the long run. 
• Your preferred power source: Figure out if you want a standard electric pump, one powered by water pressure, or a battery backup or combination pump. 
• The size of your sump pit: A pump that’s too big to fit in your sump pit won’t do you any good. Assess the dimensions of both the pit and the pump equipment. 
• How noisy the pump is: You’ll likely hear a pedestal sump pump every time it operates whereas a submersible pump offers quieter operation. 

A plumber with ample experience installing sump pumps can help you find the right system for your budget and needs. Consult an expert to discuss flood prevention options and learn what to expect during the sump pump installation process. 

Contact Iron Mountain Plumbing – Hurricane’s Trusted Plumbing Contractor for Sump Pump Installation

Hurricane homeowners depend on Iron Mountain Plumbing to answer all of their sump pump-related questions, including, “How does a sump pump work?” and, “Should there be a sump pump pit with water always in it?” We’ll guide you through the installation process if you’re looking to put a sump pump in your home and are your go-to source for sump pump repairs and replacement services.

Contact Iron Mountain Plumbing today for professional plumbing solutions in Hurricane, Utah. Call or connect with us online to schedule a consultation regarding your sump pump. Learn more today.