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Do You Need A Sump Pump?

Nov 24, 2014

sump pumpOne of a homeowner’s worst nightmares involves flooding. Water damage not only compromises your property and belongings, but also makes a big mess for you to clean up. You have to ensure everything is dried out—and often hire a mold inspector—and the space will likely never be the same.

Luckily, there is a solution. A sump pump will remove water from your basement promptly. For homes that are more susceptible to water damage, sump pumps could save thousands of dollars in repairs and cleanup. If you are in an area with good runoff and little rainfall, you will most likely never have to invest in a sump pump or deal with flood damage. For everyone else, there are a few things to consider when deciding to buy a sump pump.

The Basement

Every home inspection should start with the basement. If you are looking for a new home, make the realtor begin with the basement, because the tour may end there as well. Any signs of water damage should instantly discourage you from looking any further. This not only means future instances are possible, but also that water damage may have compromised the foundation or overall integrity of the property.

Be Proactive

People who are considering purchasing sump pumps are probably in situations in which caution is necessary. A proactive response is always the best one. However, you can save yourself from ever needing a sump pump by keeping water out of the house in the first place. Installing effective drainage systems or outdoor curtains will ensure the water ends up where it supposed to—anywhere but inside your house.

Most issues involve the foundation. An uneven tilt of the slab or improper landscaping inclines can make water congregate where it is unwelcome. While hiring a contractor to re-level your foundation may seem as if it is a huge task, it may prove prudent when compared to the years of water trouble from which it saves you.

Which Sump Pump Is Right for You?

Our suggestion is to choose a submersible pump with a cast iron core and solid intake system. This may seem obvious, but plenty of other models out there are capable of compromising your efforts. A submersible system has the advantage of being covered with a lid, which reduces noise and stops debris from entering the pit. The cast iron core helps dissipate heat so the pump stays active. The large intake minimizes clogs.

Do not be afraid to turn your water removal system into a group effort. Investing in two to three sump pumps will ensure all the water is accounted for. This is especially important for high-risk homes. A professional can advise you on the amount of water you can expect and how much a pump can handle. At Engineered Solutions of Georgia, we offer incredible repair services to keep your home healthy and cozy for years to come.