| An important component of basement perimeter drain
systems is the sump pump. The effectiveness of the drain system is
dependent on the operation of the pump. Sure … other things, like
blocked drain pipes can occur, but most perimeter drain system
failures are caused by sump pump malfunction. This article covers: * Types of Sump Pumps and Terminology
* Common Causes of Pump Failure and How to Avoid It
* How to Shop for a Sump Pump |
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Types of Sump Pumps and Terminology
Typically the pump is selected by the drain system installer. Most
pumps work in similar ways and have similar parts.
There are three types of pumps used for dewatering basements or
crawl spaces. These are:
Pedestal Type -- Also referred to as a column type or upright, the
pedestal sump pump has an open motor that is supported on top of a
column attached to the pump casing. When installed, the motor sits
outside the sump and above the basement floor. The motor is not
designed to be submerged in water.
Submersible Type -- This pump uses a watertight motor designed to be
immersed in water. The motor is coupled directly to the pump casing
and is designed to be completely hidden within the sump.
Water-Powered Type -- Water-powered sump pumps work by using city
water pressure instead of electrical power. These pumps do not use
electricity.
These pumps require between 40psi and 80psi of water pressure in
order to function. This means these pumps cannot be used if the
house gets its water from a private well.
If the city water pressure drops below the minimum pressure
required, the pump will not work. The amount of water able to be
pumped is much less than other pumps. If the basement has a
significant water problem, these back-up pumps may not be an option.
Primary and Back-up Sump Pumps
Pumps can be installed as either primary or back-up pumps. If there
is only one pump installed, it is a primary pump. Primary pumps are
either powered by 120-volt electricity or water-powered. If two
pumps are installed, it is likely that one pump is primary and one
is a back-up. There are two types of back-up sump pumps:
Emergency DC with Battery Back-up Type & AC Power Recharging Unit --
These pumps can either be a pedestal or submersible pump and have a
direct current motor. The pump is powered by a battery pack that is
continually charged by a battery charging unit that plugs into house
120-volt electrical system. Many of these back-up pump systems come
with an alarm system that sounds if the back-up pump is being used
or the battery is not charging properly.
The manufacturers recommend the batteries be replaced every two
years. This could be a problem if the homeowner forgets to replace
the battery. The batteries usually have a continuous run time of
seven to 10 hours which should be plenty of time for the electric
utility company to turn power back on.
Emergency Water-Powered Back-up Type -- These pumps are
described above. These pumps can be used as primary or emergency
back-up pumps. |
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What is a sump pump system?
Replacing or installing a sump pump
Sump pump buying options
Battery Backup Sump Pumps: Should You Have One?
Common Reasons Why Sump Pumps Fail and
How to Avoid
Purchasing A Good Quality Sump Pump
Sump Pump Installation for Do It Yourselfers
Frequently Asked Questions About Sump Pumps
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