Putting In a Sump Pump

If there’s one thing that a Cincinnati homeowner is familiar with, it’s the unpredictability of the local weather. From rolling spring thunderstorms to summertime downpours, Cincinnati residents know to expect the unexpected. For homeowners with basements, this means grappling with excess groundwater, moisture issues, and – at worst – flooding. To avoid foundation damage and soggy basements, it is recommended to install a sump pump! Here, we will outline what the process of putting in a sump pump looks like, how to maintain your new sump pump, and more. 

Why Sump Pumps Matter

Putting in a sump pump is important to preventing damage to the foundation of your home, your basement, or crawl space. Sump pumps are designed to collect and remove groundwater from around the foundation of your home. Sump pumps are installed at the lowest point in your home – usually the basement or crawl space – to collect surrounding water and then pump it away from the foundation. Read more about how sump pumps work HERE. 

While sump pumps won’t prevent water from collecting around your home, it will prevent basement flooding and foundational leaks by actively removing any water by your home.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Even though putting in a sump pump is a fairly common project, every home is different. Asking the right questions can ensure you’re getting the best system for your needs and that the work is done correctly. Here are a few helpful questions to bring up with your contractor to help prepare you for the new addition to your home:

• What type of sump pump do you recommend for my home?: Understanding the difference between submersible and pedestal pumps can help you make the right choice based on your space and water risk. 
• Where will the sump pit be located?: Ask how the placement will maximize water collection and minimize disruption to your space. 
• How will the discharge line be routed?: Ensure the discharge pipe will release water far enough from your home to avoid it cycling back toward the foundation.
  
• Do I need a permit or inspection for this installation?: In some areas, especially in cities like Cincinnati, local building codes may require permits or inspections. 
• What kind of maintenance does this system require?: Make sure you understand how often you should check the pump and what to look out for. 
• What warranty is included?: A warranty can offer peace of mind in case the pump fails unexpectedly. 

These questions can help you feel more confident when putting in a sump pump and ensure you’re getting a system that will perform reliably for years to come.

Sump Pump Installation

Putting in a sump pump involves a number of steps:

1. Excavating the Sump Pit: A hole is dug in the basement floor at the lowest point where water tends to collect. The pit must be deep enough to allow the sump pump to operate efficiently but not so deep that it hits the footing or utility lines.
2. Placing the Basin: A perforated plastic or fiberglass sump basin (also called a sump liner) is inserted into the pit. The perforations allow groundwater to seep in from the surrounding soil if needed. The basin helps contain and direct water to the pump.
3. Installing the Pump: The sump pump is placed at the bottom of the basin, usually on a layer of gravel or bricks to prevent clogging from sediment. The float switch is adjusted to activate the pump when water reaches a certain level.
4. Routing the Discharge Line: A PVC pipe is typically connected to the pump’s discharge port. It carries water up and out of the home, ideally discharging at least 10 feet away from the foundation to prevent re-entry. A small hole may be drilled in the pipe just above the pump to prevent air lock, depending on the model.
5. Adding a Check Valve: A check valve is installed on the discharge pipe – usually just above the pump or at the point where the pipe exits the basin – to prevent water from backflowing into the pit after the pump shuts off.
6. Sealing and Testing: The area around the basin is sealed with concrete to secure it in place. Then the system is tested by pouring water into the pit to ensure the float activates the pump and that water is discharged properly.

What To Do After Installation

Like any mechanical system, sump pumps perform best with routine upkeep. Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your pump and ensures it’s ready when you need it most.

Here are a few simple maintenance tips:

• Test the pump regularly: Pour water into the pit to make sure the float rises and triggers the pump. 
• Clean the pit: Remove any debris, gravel, or sediment that may interfere with the pump’s operation. 
• Inspect the check valve: Ensure the valve is working properly and that water isn’t flowing back into the pit. 
• Examine the discharge line: Make sure the pipe is free of clogs and discharges water away from the foundation. 
• Check for strange noises or vibrations: These can signal a mechanical issue that needs attention. 
• Service the battery backup system: Check battery charge levels and replace old batteries as needed (usually every 2–3 years). 

Most homeowners check their sump pump at least once a season, most notably in early spring before increased rainfall and in late fall before the impending snowmelt. 

Battery Backup Systems 

In areas that experience heavy storms, power outages, or high water tables, a sump pump battery backup can add an extra layer of security. This secondary pump activates when the primary pump fails or when the power goes out, ensuring your basement remains protected even during extreme weather conditions. 

Key benefits of battery backup systems include:

• Power outage protection: Keeps your sump system running when electricity is lost. 
• Pump failure coverage: Activates if the main pump is overwhelmed or malfunctions. 
• Alarm features: Many systems include alerts or indicators when the backup pump activates, or when battery levels run low. Some advanced systems also offer Wi-Fi monitoring or alerts to your phone, providing real-time peace of mind! 

A reliable sump pump system is one of the best investments you can make to protect your Cincinnati home from water damage. Whether you’re preparing for spring storms or unexpected downpours, a well-functioning sump pump offers peace of mind and, most importantly, a dry basement. Ready to schedule your free estimate for putting in a sump pump? Quality Comfort has you covered!