Basement sump pumps are devices that help drain water away from a home. They run on electricity and have a pit where water can be dumped. Some of them can be hidden in finished basements. The pits can also leak radon gas, which can be dangerous at high levels. Installing a sump pump is a smart idea if you live in a climate where flooding is a regular occurrence.
When a sump pump is not functioning properly, it can lead to damage to the foundation and the basement. It is advisable to perform a thorough inspection of the sump pump discharge pipe to ensure that it’s functioning properly. It is also a good idea to test the pump’s operation by placing a bucket of water in the sump pump’s discharge pipe.
If you want to avoid the hassle of digging a sump pit, you can opt for a pedestal sump pump. These pumps do not need to be buried, but they should be kept above the water line to prevent damage from moisture. They can cost from $60 to $200. Pedestal pumps are also noisier and do not have a lid to protect the interior of your home.
Another option is a battery backup sump pump. These are very useful if your main pump fails during a storm or power cut. If your sump pump is not on battery power, you can use it for several days.
