Many homeowners use sump pumps to prevent wet basements. They stand in a pit and turn on when water rises to a set level, when a float switch completes an electrical circuit.
The pump discharges the water through pipes that run away from the house. These lines should be buried 2 feet below the county frost line in your area.
How Deep Should a Sump Pump Be?
Whether you have an existing sump pump or are installing one, making sure the drainage pipe runs at the right depth is essential. Sump pumps usually use a screw or fanlike device called an impeller to push water through the pipe using centrifugal force. This high-speed action creates a low-pressure area in the middle of the pipe, which allows the water to flow out through a small opening. The water can be channeled to the sewer system or to a drain field on your property, where it can discharge into the ground.
If you plan to bury your sump pump discharge line, it’s a good idea to install the line 2 feet below the frost line in your County. This will help prevent the lines from freezing in cold weather and clogging. It’s also easier to dig and access the line for maintenance if it’s in the ground this deep, browse around here.
Whether you have an existing home or are building your dream house, sump pumps can be invaluable for protecting your investment and saving you the hassle of a flooded basement and the associated damage and loss. Before purchasing a sump pump, be sure to do your homework and research different GPM capacities to find the best fit for your home.
Sump Pit Size
When determining the size of your sump pit and the pump capacity you need, the first step is to measure how many inches of water flow into the basin during a heavy rainstorm. Each inch of water that flows into the basin equals a gallon. This will determine the total system capacity (GPH).
Next, you need to figure out how many gallons per minute must be pumped out of the sump pump. Most pumps have charts that show how much water they can pump at different head lengths. You can use this information to find the right size pump for your home. If you live in a region that frequently experiences flooding, then a pump with a larger HP motor may be necessary. A 1/3 HP pump typically is sufficient for most average-sized homes. However, for areas that are more prone to flooding a 1/2 HP pump is recommended. These pumps can handle a higher vertical lift and longer horizontal runs than their 1/3 HP counterparts.
Sump Pit Depth
When you’re ready to install the sump pump, dig a hole about 3 inches wider than the pump liner. Fill the hole with coarse gravel and tamp it firmly. Place the liner in the pit, then put in a piece of PVC pipe that protrudes through the rim header and connects to the discharge area. Dry fit the piping to be sure it all fits, then cement it in place.
Test the pump with water. A float on the inlet pipe must be able to rise to just above the shutoff level and then fall back down without getting stuck between the float and the liner wall.
The flow of water into a drainage system decreases as the house elevation increases. So if the house sits higher than the ground around it, you’ll need a larger sump pump to get adequate drainage. Similarly, if the soil is clay-like, you’ll need a smaller sump pump than if it were sand or top soil.
Sump Pumps
A sump pump can save your home from a flooded basement and the resulting costly repairs. It is important to have a water, sewer and utility line a distance away from the pump and to place it on a level surface so that water doesn’t back up into the basement.
A sand or gravel bottom helps to promote drainage. It is also a good idea to put a check valve in the discharge pipe so that it doesn’t allow water back into the pit. Generally the check valve has an arrow printed around it that indicates which direction it should face.
Summary:
A sump pump works when it is activated by a sensor or float and pumps the standing water outside. This prevents a wet basement that fosters mold, which can damage walls and carpeting and cause respiratory issues. It also prevents moisture from entering the basement, which can promote rot and deteriorate metals. Longevity of sump pumps depends on their frequency of use and following manufacturer recommendations.