Sump pumps tend to be more of a staple on the East Coast, where heavy rains and flooding are more of a problem here in Southern California. Nevertheless, our recent rainstorm has demonstrated that we’re not immune to such concerns and here in Rancho Santa Margarita, sump pump technology can be a lifesaver. So how does a sump pump work? And more importantly, why should you consider one for my home?
The sump pump is typically placed at the lowest point in the home: a basement or similar location. A hole is dug and the sump pump is placed inside of it. When the rains arrive and flooding begins, the water naturally moves into the sump pit first. A float activator or a pressure sensor in the pump detects the presence of the water and activates the pump. The motor turns on and activates the impeller, which is like a fan. The impeller pushes the water to the sides of the pipe, which creates a vacuum at the center of the pipe. The vacuum pulls he water up and out of the house through a venting pipe.
You can choose between several different types of pumps, most of which run on electricity. (They usually run on a standard plug, so you don’t need any additional equipment to power them.) The cheapest models are pedestal sump pumps, which sit on a pole above the pit and use a pipe to pull the water in. They’re less expensive than other sorts of pumps, but they’re noisier and more obtrusive. Submersible pumps sit inside the water, which serves as a natural muffler. They use waterproof casing to keep their components dry and tend to operate more efficiently.
If you know how a sump pump works, then the next step is to contact an expert to discuss which model might be best for you. At Saddleback Plumbing, sump pump technology and other plumbing services in Rancho Santa Margarita are just some of our many specialties. We can discuss the specifics with you before installing the right model for your home. Give us a call to set up an appointment today. You’ll be glad you did!