Ensuring Dry Basements: A Guide to Sump Pumps and Backup Systems

In Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding areas where basements are common, sump pumps can often be found and play a crucial role in project your home from water damage. However, even with a sump pump installed, homeowners are still vulnerable to floods, especially when power is cut to the sump pump from power outages or pump failures. In this article, we’ll explore how sump pumps work, their maintenance, and backup systems.

How Do Sump Pumps Work?

Sump Pumps are installed in a “sump basin” or pit usually located in the basement or crawlspace of your home. In areas with a high-water table, heavy rainfall, melting snow or heavy ground water, the sump pump acts as a collection pump for the sump pump to pump the water away from the foundation of your home.

Types Of Sump Pumps

There are two main types of sump pumps you will find in Vancouver homes. The first type is Submersible sump pumps. As the name implies, these pumps are installed inside the sump pit/basin and are designed to be fully submerged in water.

The second type of sump pump is called a pedestal pump. These types of pumps are mounted above the sump pit/basin with the motor being placed in the water.

Benefits Of Installing a Sump Pump

1. Prevents basement floods: Sump Pumps are very effective in preventing ground water from seeping into your home. As the sump basin fills with water, the sump pump removes this water before it damages your home and belongings.

• Moisture control: by removing water and keeping your basement dry, sump pumps can often aid in preventing mold and mildew in your basement.

The Importance of Backup Systems

While sump pumps are your best defense against floods, it is important to note that sump pumps typically run off your home’s electricity. That means that in the unfortunate event that should the power go out during a storm, your sump pump will stop operating during the time you need it most. Here is how you can prevent this from happening:

1. Sump Pump Battery Backup Systems: A sump pump battery backup system is a simple, and most economical way to ensure your sump pump is still operational during a power outage. These backups systems consist of a rechargeable battery that will power the sump pump when power loss is detected.

• Dual-Pump Systems: While a backup power system is recommended, mechanical failures are not uncommon. A dual pump system consists of two pumps, a primary pump, and a back-up pump which provides redundancy in the event of a mechanical failure. A dual pump with a battery backup system is a sure-fire way to ensure your home is protected against water.

Maintenance Tips for Sump Pump Systems

To prevent untimely pump failures, it is a good idea to have your sump pump inspected on an annual basis. A sump pump maintenance from a licensed plumber may include:

• Cleaning of the pump to remove debris and inspect for damage.
• Test the operation of the pump.
• Test and replace the sump pump battery system and check back-up system.
• Replace the pump to ensure optimal operation.

Vancouver Sump Pump Experts

Sump pumps can be found across Metro Vancouver due to our high levels of ground water and basements. If your home has a basement, a well-maintained sump pump with a reliable battery back-up is a must to ensure your home is protected from water damage in the event of a storm or power outage. If your sump pump requires maintenance, or are interested in a back-up system, give us a call and we’ll be more than happy to answer any of your questions.