Types of Sump Pumps and How They Work

two sump pumps

The likelihood of your home flooding during a storm is greatly reduced when you have a properly working sump pump. Sump pumps remove water from the ground around a building’s foundation when in excess. At Wellbrook Plumbing, we offer quality sump pump installation services for all types of sump pumps. We discuss more about each one below:

1. Submersible pumps

These are electric-operated pumps that combine the motor and the pump body. As the name suggests, these pumps are submerged in the sump pit water.

2. Pedestal pumps

The motor sits above the pump in a pedestal pump, while the intake impeller sits at the base. The pump’s motor can be destroyed if water collects around the pedestal. The motor above the sump pit makes them less effective and noisier. A smaller pit that can’t house a submersible sump pump works better with pedestal pumps.

3. Battery operated backup

Backup pumps come in handy in the event the primary pump stops operating. They are set to start automatically if the main pump fails before seeking sump pump repair in Welland, ON. Most backup pumps are battery-powered or water-powered, but none use corded electric power.

4. Water powered backup

Some backup sump pumps can be operated only by water pressure and do not require an electrical connection. Unfortunately, there are a lot of limitations to the comfort of unlimited gameplay. For water-driven pumps to function, a constant supply of pressurized water, such as that provided by a municipality, is required.

A water-powered sump pump will not be efficient in homes where the water supply originates from a well or other low-pressure source, such as a water closet. Battery-operated alternatives often have simpler setup processes, and sump pump replacement is easier in case of a malfunction.

5. Combination sump pump

A combination pump is a type of pump where sump pump companies combine the primary pump with a battery backup pump in the same unit. The battery-operated backup pump will automatically activate when the main pump breakdown or there is a power outage.

For professional sump pump maintenance and repair services, look no further than Wellbrook Plumbing. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Common Misconceptions About Sump Pumps

Sump pump

Typically installed in the basement or crawl space, sump pumps pump water out of these low points. They’re essential during heavy rains and snow storms, sewers overflow, and problems with your septic tank. However, there are several myths surrounding sump pumps. Wellbrook Plumbing, trusted specialists in sump pump repair in Pelham, ON, discusses more below:

It’s a Necessity in Every Home

The most common misunderstanding is that every home needs a sump pump. The truth is it’s only necessary for homes in flood-prone areas and homes with septic systems. If you have a basement or crawlspace, especially in a place prone to flooding during heavy rains and snow storms, you should invest in one. Sump pump companies will check your home and let you know if you need one.

It Prevents Leaks

The pump doesn’t stop leaks but pumps out the water that has leaked into your home. If you have a leak in your basement or crawlspace, water will flow from your walls and floor and eventually lead to a puddle of water. A sump pump removes that puddle of water before it eats through your home’s foundation. To avoid sump pump failure and costly water damage, be sure to schedule regular sump pump maintenance.

Sump Pumps Occupy a Lot of Room

Another misconception is that a sump pump takes up a lot of room in your home. The pump is installed in a small box next to your basement or crawlspace wall. It takes up only as much space as your standard water heater. Sump pump installation is a fast, easy process and is worth it for the peace of mind that your home will stay dry.

Whether you need sump pump replacement, installation or repairs, you can count on Wellbrook Plumbing. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

The Different Parts of Your Sump Pump

sump pump repair in a basement with a red LED light

A sump pump is an important part of your home’s plumbing system. During a storm, it pumps water out of your basement or crawlspace and away from your home. If you need sump pump repair in Pelham, ON, Wellbrook Plumbing can help. Here are the main parts of a sump pump:

The Float

The float is what tells the pump when to turn on and off. As the water level rises in the pit, it lifts the float. When the water reaches a certain level, it triggers the switch to turn on the pump. As water is pumped out of the pit, the float lowers and eventually turns off the pump.

The Switch

The switch is what turns the pump on and off. The switch can be either an automatic or manual type. Automatic switches are activated by rising water levels, while manual switches are turned on and off manually. If you want to know the best switch for your pump, call a professional to do a sump pump installation in your home.

The Impeller

It is what moves the water through the pump. The impeller inside the sump pump housing consists of vanes that spin around a central shaft. As water enters the housing, it hits these vanes and causes them to spin. This spinning action creates centrifugal force, which pushes water through discharge pipes and out of your home. To ensure your impeller is working perfectly, perform regular sump pump maintenance.

The Motor

The motor turns the impeller, which moves water through the discharge pipe and out of your home. The discharge pipe typically goes to a storm drain or other drainage system. A sump pump replacement is crucial if the motor fails because it drives the pump.

Discharge Pipe

The discharge pipe carries the water away from your home once pumped out of the pit.

If you’re looking for sump pump companies in Pelham, ON, look no further than Wellbrook Plumbing. We can provide you with quality services and give you tips to follow to extend the life span of your pump. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

The Importance of a Working Sump Pump

Sump pump in garden park

Heavy rains not only wreak havoc on your home’s exterior, but it can also cause severe damage to its interior. Your basement, in particular, is at an increased risk of flooding during storms. A sump pump will help protect your home from flooding and water damage in case water does get inside your basement. In today’s article, Wellbrook Plumbing, local experts in sump pump repair in Pelham, ON, will discuss how sump pumps work and why they are important.

How Do Sump Pumps Work?

Installing a sump pump from in the basement directs water away from the house and into the drain or another safe area. They are set up at the basement’s lowest point to collect water, and they activate only when water is present, reducing energy use. Most have a float switch, a sensor that floats on the water and alerts the pump if the water level rises too high. Having reliable sump pump companies install your sump pump will ensure that they work when needed.

Features and Advantages of Sump Pumps

To prevent floods, sump pumps control the level of groundwater around a structure. It’s not unusual for basements to become pools of water during downpours. Using sump pumps can reduce the damage caused by flooding by rerouting groundwater away from a structure. There is no better way to prevent the time, money, and stress of fixing water damage to a building than with this plumbing fixture. Be sure to stay on top of sump pump maintenance for optimal performance.

Typically, sump pumps are situated in the basements or crawl spaces of buildings. When it rains, the pumps drain the water from a catch basin and send it away from the building. Submersible and pedestal pumps are the most popular sump pumps used in houses. The most popular type of pump, the submersible, is installed in a sump well and runs underwater. Unlike their quieter and more prevalent counterparts, submersible and pedestal pumps are established outside the sump well. Sump pump replacement or installing a second backup sump pump is important to ensure your house is protected with the latest technology, especially when your pump is very old.

Buildings in low-lying areas, near water, or regions that receive a lot of downfall can all benefit from installing sump pumps. A sump pump is a safe investment that might save you thousands of dollars in flood damage and repairs before the next major storm. If you are interested in sump pump installation or need prompt repairs, contact Wellbrook Plumbing today.

Warning Signs You Need Sump Pump Repair

A sump pump is one of your home’s most important safety features that protects you and your property from floods. In order to do its job properly, however, it’s important to observe proper sump pump maintenance and provide repairs when necessary. Wellbrook Plumbing, a trusted local plumbing company, shares some of the most common signs that you need repairs below: 

There are Bad Odors

A malfunctioning or failing sump pump isn’t able to efficiently remove all the water from your basement. Ultimately, this supports the growth of mold and mildew, which are the reason behind the smell. Therefore, if you notice a strange smell from your basement, it’s possible you need sump pump repair in Pelham, ON. To protect your health and that of your loved ones, reach out to a plumber to check and repair your system.

The Pump is Too Loud

Your pump isn’t meant to make loud noises. Therefore, unusual noise from your system is an indication that one of its components is damaged or worn out. When addressed early, the problem could possibly be solved by simple repairs; however, when left for long, you might have to do sump pump replacement which can be pricey.

It Runs When Dry

Your pump is only meant to run when needed. Therefore, if you notice that it’s always running even when there isn’t any water to pump, it’s possible that the switch has a problem. In some cases, it’s due to improper sump pump installation. Other times, it’s due to clogs. Whatever the cause, you need to hire a plumber to diagnose and address the problem. If you allow it to keep running, you’ll be doing more damage to your pump. Ultimately, you might have to pay for expensive repairs and or replacements, and in the worst-case scenario, you might have to install a new one.

Certified sump pump companies such as Wellbrook Plumbing have professionals who are extensively trained to handle such issues without compromising the health of your loved ones or causing damage to your property. Contact us today for all your sump pump needs.

How do Sump Pumps Work?

Sump pumps are used in every household to drain the water from the basement. This is a small device attached to your home’s foundation and draws water from it underground. Wellbrook Plumbing is the local expert in general plumbing, sewer line repair, and sump pump repair Welland, ON, and we can help educate you on the technology behind sump pumps.

There are two main types of sump pump available on the market, submersible sump pumps and pedestal sump pumps. We discuss these, their sump pump maintenance requirements, and benefits below:

Submersible Sump Pumps

Submersible sump pumps drain water from basement sump pits and operate utterly underwater at the bottom of the sump pit. Submersible sump pump installation is done over the underground sump pit and is connected to a float mechanism that keeps it submerged underwater. The float is maintained in a neutral position by the weight of water in the basin. They work by moving the float up and down, allowing water to flow through the pump and back into the sump pit. When the float rises, water is pumped out of the hole. When it sinks, water is pumped back into the pit.

Pedestal Sump Pumps

Pedestal-type sump pumps are mounted above the basement floor on columns that protrude from the sump basin. They have no float mechanism and operate by a simple switch controlled by the pump motor. These pumps are also known as “sump savers. All the water must go through the pump because there is no float mechanism to raise or lower the float to keep it submerged underwater. The “saver” pump works well when there is little water left in the basin after heavy rain or if you want to empty your basement of water after heavy rainstorms. It works by moving up and down on its own due to gravity. It can only be used with a sump basin at least 12 inches deep.

If you are unsure what type of sump pump your home needs, you may consult reputable sump pump companies like Wellbrook Plumbing. As experts in plumbing, we can help you maintain the functionality and efficiency of your sump pump. 

Whether you need a sump pump replacement or are interested in installing a new sump pump in your home, you can count on Wellbrook Plumbing. Schedule an appointment with our professional team today.